13
UNDERSTANDING WATERPROOFNESS
What is not covered by warranty!
OZtrail tents use waterproof and water repellent fabrics. However, with
the addition of seams, zips and other desirable features a recreational
tent will not be as waterproof as a car, house or other solid structures. The
following are common examples of how water can enter a tent: -
Condensation
- When warm moist air meets cooler air, condensation occurs. The tent/
shelter fly forms an impermeable layer between the inside and outside conditions. The
moisture inside the tent/shelter condenses on the fabric. Sometimes in cold conditions it
appears that the fabric is leaking when in fact the cause is condensation. Condensation can
be reduced if the tent/shelter is well ventilated.
Zips
- All care is taken in the design to cover zips with rain flaps. At times wind driven rain
could force water under the rain flaps and through the zips. To minimise this, make sure all
doors and windows are closed with the rain flaps covering the zips.
Floor
- If the ground is very wet or water pools under the floor, downward pressure of
standing or kneeling on the floor could force water through the floor fabric. To prevent this,
do not pitch the tent over hollows and make sure water drains away from the tent.
Structural Integrity
- A perfectly pitched tent on perfectly flat ground is structurally strong
and most waterproof. During prolonged periods of rain and wind it may be necessary to
tighten guy lines and reset the tent pegs and attend to drainage around the tent. Sagging
and incorrect pitching weakens the tent structure and could allow water to pool on the fly
placing undue forces on the tent causing leaking and breakages.
PROLONGING THE LIFE OF YOUR TENT/SHELTER
