Tarp Sealer

**Fronkey** · 03-25-2011, 22:36

After some hard work, careful reading and stress induced vomiting, I've finally finished my tarp. Now all I have to do is seal this bad boy.

What are some good sealers to get? I don't really want to do the whole silicone and mineral spirits deal, just something I can buy and slap on there. Also, I saw on the Madcat that it is sealed underneath the tarp. Do you guys recommended just that or should I do the top and the bottom? Thanks a lot.

**Bubba** · 03-25-2011, 22:40

I assume its a silnylon tarp?
I used this flowable silicone on one of my unsealed tarps:http://www.permatex.com/products/aut...***_Sealer.htm
Should be available at one of your local hardware stores.

Got the idea on the forums. Seemed to work well but have not tested the tarp outdoors as of yet.

**OutandBack** · 03-25-2011, 23:28

Would something like this work?
http://www.wildernesslogics.com/Siln...ler-Silnet.htm

I read a couple sealing tips, you probably read them to, but just in case you didn't.

Masking tape to make a nice edge on both sides of your seal.

Baby powder the sealant after it cures to prevent the syn from sticking to it.

These are not my tips and I apologize to the members (can't remember who they are) that originally posted them.

PS- Should be able to get that 30' of lash it out to you mid week. I just received the redden email, my spool has shipped today.

**JerryW** · 03-25-2011, 23:32

If you don't want to mix it yourself, the easiest would either be Silnet or the Permatex Flowable Sealer. The Permatex is available at most every auto parts store in existence.

Jerry

**pgibson** · 03-25-2011, 23:37

I prefer Sil-net, We include it with every tarp we do and have it available by the tube as well.

**Fronkey** · 03-25-2011, 23:39

Thanks for responding guys.

Yeah, I'd rather just spend extra and not have to make it myself.
I've seen the Permatex around and can pick that up no problem.

What is the best way to seal it? For example, should I hang it up or have it laying on a table or something?

Originally Posted by OutandBack

Masking tape to make a nice edge on both sides of your seal.

Baby powder the sealant after it cures to prevent the syn from sticking to it.

Awesome, send me an e-mail when you get it.

I hadn't read the baby powder one before. Sounds like I need to hit up the baby department too.

**Fronkey** · 03-25-2011, 23:41

Originally Posted by pgibson

I prefer Sil-net, We include it with every tarp we do and have it available by the tube as well.

I should of thought about this last week. I just got the package I ordered from you yesterday and should have ordered the sealant with it. lol

Fronkey

**pgibson** · 03-25-2011, 23:46

I like to stretch the tarp tight so that you get into the stitching pores and get them filled good. If you can do it over a hard surface it is easier than hanging, but any way you get it tight is better than loose and you are less likely to get a wrinkle or fold in the fabric before it cures. Sil-net cures firm in a couple hours, others can take longer.

Then I dust mine with a bit of climbing chalk....no smell, and as fine a powder as you will find. Just a little on your finger is all you need.

**Bubba** · 03-25-2011, 23:46

I set up my tarp upside down on my stand with good tension on the seam and then applied the sealer. The tension helps open up the stiching a bit and allows the flowable silicone in.

**Fronkey** · 03-26-2011, 10:41

Just bought some Permatex and some baby powder. Time to go to town on this thing and finish her out. Thanks a lot for all your help everyone. Pictures will follow soon.

Fronkey