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Seams should be reinforced with nylon tape. The tape is stitched into each seam, and will
make the seam stronger and more weatherproof. All waterproof seams in a nylon tent, such
as on the fly and floor, must be waterproofed with a seam sealer. Your new tent should
come with a bottle of seam sealer. Set up the tent in the yard before your trip, and apply the
sealer. Let it dry before packing the tent. You will need to do this yearly.
Weather Considerations
Wind, rain, sun, heat and cold, all have different demands on the tent.
Windy areas will require sturdy poles, stakes and anchor ropes. Geodesic tents are
excellent in wind. Their igloo-like shape reduces the wind's effect, and their pole
arrangement provides great strength.
Rain creates two considerations. First, keeping the rain out. Second, giving you enough
room so you will be comfortable if you have to "weather" the storm by entertaining
yourself indoors for a while.
Your tent should have a completely waterproof rain fly made of coated nylon. The fly
should wrap around the tent and reach down the sides nearly to the ground. This will keep
out all types of rain, even if it is windy. The fly should extend far enough over the door, so
it keeps out the rain when you open the door to enter or leave. Even if it doesn't rain, many
times you will have dew fall during the night.
The floor should also be waterproof coated nylon. This fabric should cover the floor, and
turn up the sides for about six inches or so. There should be as few seams as possible. This
is called a "tub" floor. It will keep out any water that runs down and under the tent.
Sun and heat create the need for shade and airflow. The rain fly will provide shade for tent.
Large screened windows on opposite sides of the tent, or a screened window opposite a
screened door, will allow air to flow through the tent. Most tents now have a breathable
fabric on the inner walls, with the rain fly giving protection from bad weather.
Cold weather brings special needs. Unless you will be dealing with snow (when you would
need a mountaineering tent), then you can use a "three-season" tent that has good features.
The most important features will be a rain fly that fully covers the top and sides, and an
interior layer made from an open mesh fabric to allow water vapor to pass through it. In
