Waterproofing Spray

[Drax]

In the past I've used Nikwax tent proofing spray to add an extra bit of protection to my Oxford Stormex cover. As I've run out I was going to order some more off fleabay. What I've noticed is a load of people selling Silicone spray.

Question is:

Can you use silicon spray as a waterproofing agent & are there any downsides with using it ie. deterioration of the material it's used on?

I can get silicon spray from work so I don't want to be buying something that I don't have to.

Thanks

[Hedgetrimmer]

I think the problem with silicone spray is, although it's very waterproof, it's not breathable, and so would significantly reduce the performance of Goretex etc. Nikwax used to do 2 different waterproofers - one for breathable, and one for non-breathable clothing. Possibly they might just do one for all fabrics now. I don't know if silicone sprays would do any harm to fabrics, but don't know of anything other than tents that are treated with it (silnylon for instance) - which suggests they'd be ok.

[bri h]

I used some stuff called fabseal i think on our old canvass frame tent and it worked realy well. It even kept us dry in Wales!!. I dont know about the breatheable bit, that could cause condensation problems.

[AndyL]

fabseal is oil based I believe while Nikwax is water based.


I wouldn't use tent & gear proof on a jacket as I suspect that is designed that is the stuff for non breathable fabrics while the other product is for breathable fabrics

[bri h]

I think drax is talking about a bike cover. I agree with you and would not use that stuff on clothing.

[Hedgetrimmer]

Ah yes, silly me, for a cover. Nevertheless, a cover would benefit from breathability to reduce condensation. Many covers have vents to allow this to evaporate, which might be enough.

[bigsteve]

I would use thompsons water seal if it is a bike cover
 After spending to many years as a carp angler I and others used it for years on bivvys and umbrellas
  does exactly what it says on the tin 
 
   just not to thick

[Drax]

Yes, was only looking to use it on a bike cover - so the 'breathabiltiy' issue may not be too important as it's kept outside. (& during the current weather conditions)- there's a fair bit of breeze flowing round the old girl.