It is essential to waterproof a pop-up camper's canvas to keep it stable and protect against initial damage. After a while, this coating may begin to peel off often along the joints and gaps, which could enhance the penetration of extra moisture. So the queries may arise like can you waterproof a pop-up camper? What do you use to seal a pop-up camper? What is the best pop-up camper canvas waterproofing method?
In this article, you'll get the answer to all the above, and continue reading to know about them.
POP-UP Camper Canvas Waterproofing Guide
Pop-up campers are waterproof when new but lose their protection with time. The quality of an old pop-up camper canvas will no longer be as high as it formerly was. Therefore, occasional waterproofing is essential. Here is a step to step guide to do so.
Assemble All the Things You Need
Here is the list of the equipment that you'll need:
A bucket
Mild soap
Lawn hose
soft and smooth brush
Waterproofing product
Ladder (a folding or step ladder is preferable)
Clean the Camper Properly
It is good to leave the tent in the sunshine for two to three hours to allow all the mold and mild to die naturally.
Before applying chemicals to them, dry brush off any leftover debris.
Ensure the camper is clean and clear of debris before using the waterproofing agent.
Put the camper in a clear space outside your house, away from trees, and near a water supply to wash it.
After that, expand the camper to its maximum size before cleaning it with a light soap or detergent and a smooth brush.
Avoid forcefully scrubbing it since doing so might harm the cloth.
You may have to exert a little force if the fabric is untidy, such as if it contains bird feces, mold, or fungus. But that relies on the specifics of the issue, like the material type and how filthy the camper is.
Ensure the chemicals you use are vinyl compatible if the camper's exterior is made of vinyl; otherwise, you risk damaging the coating and reducing its waterproofness.
Finally, use a lawn hose to thoroughly clean the tent after washing it.
Dry the Camper
The next step is to dry your tent in the sunlight.
Ensure to give it enough time so it is completely dry.
POP-UP Camper Canvas Waterproofing
Once your camper tent is cleaned correctly, the next is to waterproof it. There are endless choices because there are so many waterproofing solutions on the market. However, wisely choose the right one that suits your camper's fabric. Otherwise, you may be unhappy with the result.
Use vinyl-safe solutions to repair or wash the vinyl components of the pop-up camper's material. For example, if you use a 303 fabric guard waterproofing product, ensure it's not on the vinyl surface. This fabric protector doesn't work well with campers with a mix of canvas and vinyl elements.
Add the first layer of paint to the canvas on the damaged regions using the spray bottle for smaller parts.
Avoid coating the vinyl section, and hide such places with a cardboard sheet when spraying.
Alternatively, you can protect them with adhesive tape to prevent staining. If you accidentally overspray such areas, clean them off right away.
Since you require more material for the bigger parts, using a paintbrush will be convenient. Rub it thoroughly across the entire area after pouring it into a container.
After letting it dry, apply an additional layer. Seal with a seam sealant, examine for any areas still exposed by showering them with water, and repeat as necessary.
Valuable Tips To Keep your Camper in Good Shape
Pop-up camper canvas requires regular care, or it will rapidly get contaminated with mold and mildew. You could fix it at a massive cost because getting rid of the mold and retaining it waterproof is more challenging. The most effective method is to clean and maintain it regularly. Here are some valuable tips for your help.
You should wash the canvas with warm water. To remove the bird feces and other filth, use a soft brush.
Vacuuming is essential for other items like dirt.
Keep the pop-up camper dry when storing it. and
Let it dry thoroughly, or mold will grow, which will cause other problems like filthy odor and health problems.
Perform routine inspections and cleanings.
Don't over-clean it, though, since it might cause it to lose its waterproofing.
Conclusion
One of the most devastating events that could occur to your pop-up camper is high humidity. It decomposes and distorts timber surfaces while it erodes and rusts metal parts. Being within the car isn't a choice because the flooring, walls, and roof can become floppy.
You can waterproof your tent and prevent severe water destruction by using the advice I provided in this post. Always regularly clean your pipes and never overlook a leaky faucet since it will only worsen.