UV Degradation

The fabric on the tents and awnings which we sell from Vango, Outwell and MSR are very strong, waterproof and highly water-repellent. However, sun, wind, rain and wear will weaken any fabric over time. The first signs of this will be fading of the fabric. Just as UV rays from direct sunlight have adverse effects on our skin, the same is true for all materials including, unfortunately, tent and awning fabrics. 

Perhaps the biggest effect is on tear strength. Extended exposure to UV diminishes any fabric’s tear strength.

Another effect of extended UV exposure is diminished water repellency, so that water no longer runs off the fabric as it did when it was new. This does not, however, indicate a reduction in how waterproof the fabric is. Retreating the fabric will improve both protection against UV damage and water repellency, but will not help with tear strength.

You will notice that the range of tents and awnings the we sell offer many fabric options, if your tent or awning is going to get a lot UV Exposure we would certainly recommend using the heaviest fabric options. You will also see some fabrics will also offer UV Protection and Colorlok.

You can help prolong the life of your tent by treating it with Fabsil Universal Protector, see link to it on our website <<Click Here>>

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