Seam Sealing

Before taking your Six Moon Designs shelter into the backcountry, you'll want to seal all exposed outside seams with a silicone based sealer. Make sure you're using a silicone based sealer, the common polyurethane based seam sealing product, SeamGrip^TM, will not work. Since it is polyurethane based, it will not adhere to silicone coated fabrics.

You can seam seal your shelter by using a product like SilNet™ seam sealer or making your own seam sealer. Once properly sealed you should have years of maintenance free seams. Unlike polyurethane seam sealer, silicone seam sealer won't peal off your seams over time.

Using SilNet Seam Sealer

If you've purchased the SilNet™ sealer, follow the package instructions for proper application and curing.

• Hint #1: To better control the flow of sealer apply with a small plastic glue syringe. They are available for about $1 at any art supply store. Cut off part of the tip to make a larger opening.
• Hint #2: Before applying the sealer, dilute it with mineral spirits (see below). This will allow the sealer to flow better into the seams and create a more finished look.

Making Your Own Seam Sealer

1. Purchase the following items. They should be are available from most local hardware stores.

   • GE Silicone II clear tub and sink caulk - The small tube will make enough to seal several tents. The large tube will make enough to seal everything you own and then some.
   • Mineral Spirits - Commonly used for cleaning paint brushes.
   • Small brush to apply the sealer - A 3/4" foam brush works well.
   • Paint stirrer attachment for an electric drill.

2. Dilute Silicone In a glass jar, mix one part mineral spirits with one part silicone caulk (1 ounce of mineral spirits and 1 ounce of silicone should be enough). When mixture is the right consistency, it will be smooth and milky, and flow evenly when applied. If it's too thick or lumpy, the waterproofing won't flow well into the seams, or be absorbed by the exposed threads.
• Hint #1: You can mix by hand with a regular paint stirrer, but caulk is stiff, so will take much longer to mix. Using an paint stirrer in an electric drill will give your sealer a smooth silky appearance. It will dry faster and clearer.

Sealing Your Shelter

1. Setup and Inspect your Shelter - Setup your tent before sealing it. Get inside and lay down to make sure it fits your needs. Make a through inspection to insure it's properly sewn and all the seams are in good condition. Make sure you are happy with the shelter before proceeding. Once the tent is seam sealed you won't be able to return it for a refund.
2. Seal the Seams - Most of seams on Six Moon Designs shelters are designed using butt seams. These seams keep the the threads on the inside where they are less exposed to dirt and grim. Butt seams must be sealed from the outside of the canopy. Applying sealer to the underside of the seam will not seal them.

   Work in a well ventilated area, pour a small amount into a paper cup, and close the jar to keep rest of sealer from thickening. Use a small brush to apply a thin coat of sealer to all exterior seams. For butt seams, hold them open to allow the sealer to soak into the seam and coat the threads. If sealer thickens while applying, add some more mineral spirits.

3. Stripe the Floor - For shelters with floors, adding a series of strips sealer to the floor of the tent. This will reduce the tendency of your sleeping pad from sliding around on the silicone nylon floor.
4. Drying your Shelter - Allow your shelter to cure for at least 8 to 12 hours after sealing. Once cured, the sealer dries to a clear matte finish that is nearly invisible, and will be both durable and flexible. You may find your seams to feel tacky. This will dissipate with shelter usage. You prefer, it can be eliminated by sprinkling on a light coat of unscented talcum powder.