Waterproofing a tent

[vanhea20]

Just bought my first tent and was wondering what to use to waterproof it. I know that there is stuff to waterproof the seams but is there anything you can buy to put on the sides of the tent. Any comments would be appreciated.

[Powerstroke]

If its new it should be fine. If its old, then you can go to a camping store or REI and pick up some wash on or spray on waterproofing. I like the wash in stuff. You fill a laundry tub with water and the mix and then soak your tent in the tub.

Spray on works well, but you have to get even coverage.

[IFallsRon]

I've always had good results with Campdry. You should be good for a couple seasons with a new tent.

[vanhea20]

Thanks for the comments. Would any of you suggest sealing the seams on the tent or should they be fine since it is new?

[woodsmanmn]

Seal them. If you've got a yard and a lawn sprinkler, give it a test run, since it is new. Helps eliminate suprises in the middle of a rainy night.

[IFallsRon]

It doesn't hurt to seal the seams. They're a typical weak point. A friend had a new tent and suffered through a recent wet weekend with leaking seams.

[Stick in Mud]

I would say seal it...as far as I know, it can't hurt, and like the previous post said, it can prevent a miserable night.