The most frequent cause of cloth breakdown is due to mildew called diamond spot. These are small black spots that multiply with the presence of a combination of moisture, heat and organic substances. After the first outing or after a longish period of storage, there may be a tendency for the canvas to show signs of leakage. This is due to the fibers losing bulk through dehydration. On damping, the fibers will swell and reseal again. This however is not enough. Sufficient resealing and anti-fungicidal compound treatment must be present as well. The efficiency of the resealing compound is directly dependent on the condition of the canvas being treated. By applying the following hints and tips, the life span of your tent will be prolonged:
1. Never store a wet tent. If unavoidable, only slightly bundle together. That limits the build up of heat during temporary storage.
2. Never store a wet or dry tent in a plastic bag.
3. Do not wash the tent with soap or any solvent.
4. Only use a soft household broom to wipe off loose dust and dirt.
5. Soil marks must only be removed with clean water.
6. Avoid the scrubbing down of canvas. Only use a sponge or cloth to remove heavily stained marks. This will prolong the lifespan of your tent.
7. Wash plastic windows with clean water, and use a Chamois to dry.
8. Wash zips with clean water, and use e.g. an old tooth brush to remove accumulated dirt. Avoid using soap or candle wax to ease operation.
9. Tree gum, fruit bats and Mopanie worm droppings, berries and some bird droppings cause permanent stains. Learn to identify your South-African trees; this can save you a lot of money. A light shade net (40%) can reduce these damages.
10. Store tent in a cool dry area, and not directly on cement floor.
11. Air the tent every four to six months, by pitching or spreading over garden chairs in sun light and not on grass.
12. Do not store mothballs directly on canvas; first roll it in an old hanky or cloth.
13. Never attempt to reseal a dirty tent, the sealant and the dirt will be baked into the pores of the material resulting in a permanently stained tent.
14. The GOLDEN motto on tent maintenance - - - - Prevention is better than cure.
Enjoy your holiday and arrive safely.
