Outdoor gear is exposed to a lot of wear and tear. From setting up camp to hiking through rough terrain, everyone’s gear takes a beating when they get out and about and use it. If it’s not properly cared for, it won’t last long. That’s why it’s important to not only choose high-performance gear that is durable and can withstand the elements but to maintain gear using gear aids like silicone and silicone sealant.

Silicone sealant is great for jobs with outdoor purposes like fixing gutters or building fire pits. But it can also maintain outdoor gear. That’s important for client projects as well as your own gear you use as a contractor.. In this article, we’ll explain the benefits of using silicone-treated gear including nylon tarps, backpacks, and more.

What Is Silicone And Silicone Sealant?

One material that is growing in popularity for sealing and treating outdoor gear - and for good reason - is silicone. Silicone is a synthetic rubber found in many household items, from caulk to cooking utensils. It’s also used in a variety of industries, including automotive, construction, and medical. Silicone sealant is a sealant made from a mixture of silicone and other substances, and this rubber sealant seals seams. The rubber seal that flexes work great for dynamic items, including outdoor gear. It’s important to remember that certain materials only adhere to silicone.

Why Use Silicone To Seal Outdoor Gear

There are numerous reasons why silicone sealant is such a popular material for sealing and protecting outdoor gear like tents, nylon tarps, and more.

What makes silicone ideal for outdoor gear is its waterproof and durable properties. Silicone can withstand high temperatures and is not affected by extreme heat or cold. It’s also flexible, so it can create a water-tight seal that won’t peel or crack over time. If you’re looking for something that will help your gear last, silicone is a great option. Many silicone sealants are even made with a weather-resistant tough formula to help your bonds stay in place for longer.

Seam Sealing Silnylon Tarps

One of the most common projects clients will call a contractor for regarding outdoor gear is seam sealing silnylon tarps, and this is one of the best uses of silicone sealant. Silicone sealant is an excellent seam sealer and can be used on most types of gear including silnylon tarps. Silicone sealant is a great choice for this purpose since it is not only durable and long-lasting, but it dries fast and fast and patches pinhole repairs and small tears.

How To Seam Seal Your Silnylon Silicone Nylon Tent

If you’ve never sealed a silnylon tent or tarp using silicone sealant before, you might be a little overwhelmed, but don’t fret; it’s a fairly easy process even for those without experience. Your goal is primarily to seal the outside of your tent since this is where rain, weather, and other elements will enter your tent if you don’t properly seal it. Just ensure you have a tube of silicone sealant and Mineral Spirits on hand (one tube of silicone can seal up to 24 tents!).

To properly seal a silnylon tent only, follow these steps:

1. Locate the seams of the tent and clean them with rubbing alcohol to create a smooth, clean surface.
2. Next, apply some Mineral Spirits mixed with your silicone tent sealant. You’ll need to thoroughly mix the two together before you apply them.
3. While applying the Mineral Spirits and silicone tent sealant, apply it generously. If you don’t, you run the risk of the elements making their way through the silicone sealant.

After you’re done, all you’ll need to do is wait for the silicone sealant mixture to dry.

Tips For Using Silicone Sealant To Seam Seal Silnylon Tarps

Using silicone sealant to seal silnylon tarps and other outdoor gear is a great idea, but you still have the potential to run into a few hiccups. To prevent mistakes from happening, try following these tips from the experts.

1. Apply properly: Be generous when you apply your silicone sealant; otherwise, you’ll need to reapply shortly or the mixture won’t work in the first place. Not applying enough silicone sealant is one of the most common mistakes.
2. Be patient and reapply as needed: Wait a while for the sealant to dry, and then reapply in any areas that you missed. It will take around 24 hours for the sealant to fully dry, but you can add silicone sealant to any missed areas about an hour or two after application.
3. Create a clean seal: Use corn starch or baby powder on the sealant after you finish up to create a cleaner seal. This will create a more professional finish and polished look.
4. Choose the right silicone sealant: Use a silicone sealant that is specifically designed for outdoor use and is compatible with silnylon fabric. Look for a sealant that is non-toxic, non-flammable, and does not contain solvents that can damage the fabric.
5. Prepare the tarp: Make sure the tarp is clean and dry before you begin seam sealing. Any dirt, dust, or moisture on the fabric can prevent the sealant from adhering properly. This is the purpose of cleaning the tarp with rubbing alcohol.

By following these tips, you can use silicone sealant to effectively seam seal silnylon tarps and protect your clients from the elements during outdoor adventures.

Silicone For Outdoor Gear From Silicone Depot

It’s important that you maintain outdoor gear with silicone sealants. Using silicone sealant on your nylon tent will prevent it from its tendency to peel or crack over time, keeping you warm and dry. You can also use silicone sealant on other outdoor products to compatible bonds to silicone-treated fabrics to prevent water from seeping through seams. In other words, there are a lot of uses for silicone sealant to protect your outdoor gear!

If you’re looking for the best silicone sealant for the job, look no further than Silicone Depot. We offer a huge catalog of silicone sealants designed for outdoor and indoor use, as well as all of the accessories you’ll need to complete your project. Check out our website today!