reproofing groundsheet

[Malcolm]

I've been looking at the camping threads and remembered that the groundsheet in my one man Phoenix Phreedome (doubt anyone remembers that one!) is now oozing slightly. Is it practical to reproof a groundsheet or is that the tent dead?

 

[Traditionalist]

You can reproof it with this;

http://www.grangers.co.uk/product.cfm?cat=17&productid=20

[Fishtales]

There is always Nikwax.

http://www.nikwax.co.uk/en-gb/products/productdetail.php?productid=65

http://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/nikwax-tent-and-gear-solar-proof-500ml-camping-chemical-p135282

[Malcolm]

Have either of you successfully reproofed a groundsheet? It takes such a pounding that I'm dubious about it.

[Traditionalist]

Yes I have done it twice using that Grangers stuff. Lasted two seasons on the last one I did, and then I gave the tent away anyway.

[Fishtales]

I haven't.

Is it leaking as you lie on it or is it in specific spots. There might be microscopic holes that are letting the water in. I get a wet elbow at times if I lean on the groundsheet at the door where the sleep mat stops. That is just down to pressure as there is hundred of pounds of pressure per square inch which forces water through.

I don't suppose some PVA water proofer would work?

You could always unpick the old groundsheet and replace it

http://www.pennineoutdoor.co.uk/fabrics

http://www.profabrics.co.uk/

Being a handy sort of person you could probably manage that Buying the right material could maybe even make it lighter

[Allan Crawford]

I dont think re-proofing makes much difference for ground sheets, if they have had some use they will have small holes,  if close to car I try to put something under ground sheet, orange bivi bag, spare tarpaulin etc, if packing as light as possible if I stay dry on top of sleeping mat I'm happy.

[Traditionalist]

I dont think re-proofing makes much difference for ground sheets, if they have had some use they will have small holes,  if close to car I try to put something under ground sheet, orange bivi bag, spare tarpaulin etc, if packing as light as possible if I stay dry on top of sleeping mat I'm happy.

It wont make any difference if they have holes. Just a waste of time and money tying to reproof then. A foam mat or similar is basically essential under the groundsheet.

[fergie]

If you know any builders ask for a square of Visqueen. This stuff is 100% waterproof weighs nothing and folds down easily and its pretty tough.

[Buanán]

As Alan suggests, a foot print mat is your boy, cheaper than a new tent and not that much extra weight. Doubt if there'll be one for that particular tent, but one of the plethora of foot prints for other brands is bound to fit, or you could make your own. Handy thing to have just for sitting at a loch side brewing tea or having a spot of lunch.