seam sealant for pop up

[trishy]

We just bought our first pop up and can't wait to go camping!  We tent camped for years.  Our 1989 Coleman Newport is in very good condition, and we've had it up for several days now packing.  Does fine in a light mist, but in heavy down pours, water drips in from two of the seams.  

Looks like flaky old sealant is coming off on the inside of the seams.  We know it needs new sealant, but the kind Walmart sell is not working:(  Is there something stronger?  Is there a spray on sealant for all of the outside canvas?

Thanks in advance,
Trishy

[wavery]

We just bought our first pop up and can't wait to go camping!  We tent camped for years.  Our 1989 Coleman Newport is in very good condition, and we've had it up for several days now packing.  Does fine in a light mist, but in heavy down pours, water drips in from two of the seams.  

Looks like flaky old sealant is coming off on the inside of the seams.  We know it needs new sealant, but the kind Walmart sell is not working:(  Is there something stronger?  Is there a spray on sealant for all of the outside canvas?

Thanks in advance,
Trishy

WELCOME TO PUT!!!!

I'm assuming that you mean the seams in the canvas and not the roof.

You can purchase a tube of clear silicone sealer. Put a small dab on your finger and rub it on the outside of the seam that is leaking. It takes just a little and you shouldn't be able to see it. All it has to do is fill the tiny stitch holes.

[trishy]

Thank you so much for replying!  Do you have a certain brand you recommend or where to purchase?

Thanks!

Trishy (1 hubby, 4 kids, 1 small shih tzu)

[wavery]

Thank you so much for replying!  Do you have a certain brand you recommend or where to purchase?

Thanks!

Trishy (1 hubby, 4 kids, 1 small shih tzu)

Any clear silicone sealer will do. Most stores carry it (even some grocery stores), Wal-mart, auto parts stores, aquarium stores, hardware stores etc.

Make sure that the fabric and your hands are clean or you may end up with an unsightly "dirty spot" where you put the silicone. The fabric can be cleaned with Woolite and a teri-towel or soft brush. Wipe off or rub in any excess sealer immediately and allow to dry for about 4 hours before closing up the trailer. You can even put a small amount of mineral spirits on your finger tip before you do it. It will make it smooth out easier.

Remember....it just takes a tiny amount.

[trishy]

Thanks so much Wavery!  This sealant did the trick!  Awesome!  I am so happy that is was just the seams and such an easy fix!  

Blessings,
Trishy

[Morin]

that actually is a very good tip.. will do it myself...

thanks

[wavery]

that actually is a very good tip.. will do it myself...

thanks

Just remember to go sparingly and that it is the stitch holes that are the problem and not actually the seam.