Why UV Exposure Can Compromise Synthetic Materials
Synthetic fabrics used for tents and backpacks are coated with a water repellent treatment. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light both destroys the water repellency and leads to a reduction in fabric tear strength, significantly shortening the lifespan of equipment. The application of Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarProof® can double the effective life of equipment by protecting against UV damage, while also providing Durable Water Repellency (DWR) to keep the rain out.
Tent and Backpack Fabrics Are Light and Strong, But Vulnerable
Tents and backpacks use synthetic fabrics, such as nylon or polyester, with a thin watertight polyurethane (PU) or elastomeric coating on the inside and a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating on the outside. This combination gives great strength and water resistance, combined with light weight — ideal attributes for outdoor equipment.
Unfortunately these fabrics are vulnerable to sunlight and in two weeks of continuous exposure, can lose up to half of their strength. Additionally, the inner coating will degrade if it is left damp for long periods. Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarProof® protects the entire fabric from the effects of both UV and water.
How Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarProof® Gives Dual Protection
Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarProof® adds Durable Water Repellency (DWR), to the maximum testable standard, and ultraviolet (UV) protection, to inhibit the reduction of fabric tear strength caused by UV rays.
- Can be applied to wet or dry synthetic fabrics
- Water-based, non-aerosol, non-flammable, and environmentally friendly
- Contains no harmful solvents and is completely PFC free
- Potentially doubles the useful life of your gear — saving you money
How to Apply
- For best results, always clean item(s) first with Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarWash®.
- No need to dry item(s) before waterproofing.
- Protect working surface and lay clean wet item flat, or erect tent and wet.
- Spray evenly to outside of fabric.
- Wait 2 minutes.
- Remove any surplus product with a damp cloth.
- Check carefully to ensure no areas have been missed.
Coverage: Approximately 1.5 fl oz (50ml) per 10 sq ft (1m²). Coverage depends on the condition of the fabric being treated.
Maintenance: To maintain waterproofing and UV protection, always clean with Nikwax Tent & Gear SolarWash®. Do not use conventional detergents.
