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How to Fix a Tear in a Tent

Oh no! You just set up your tent before your big camping trip and discover it has a tear in it. Don't rush to the store to purchase a new one just yet. A tear in your tent does not mean the tent is at the end of its life. Using a patch kit, you can have your tear fixed in as little as two hours to ensure you remain dry and bug free all night long.

Things You'll Need

Rubbing alcohol
Repair patch
Silicone impregnated nylon sealant

Instructions

- 1
  Place your tent with the tear facing you and wipe the area surrounding it with an alcohol swab to remove dirt and debris. Dry completely.
- 2
  Place a peel and stick patch on the outside of the tent over the tear. Press it down firmly, ensuring there are no air bubbles under the surface.
- 3
  Flip your tent over so the inside is facing you. Cut a round swatch of fabric large enough to cover the tear, plus about 1/4 inch in each direction. The round shape will avoid corners that can peal away more easily.
- 4
  Apply a silicone impregnated nylon sealant on the tear. For best results, apply it at least 1/2 inch around the outside of the tear.
- 5
  Press your fabric swatch firmly on top of the tear. Press down from the outside slowly to prevent air bubbles from getting under the patch and creating leaks for rain or an area for insects to get in the tent.

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