Silicone Spray on SilNylon?

Yes, I do this with my blue tunnel tent. Every couple of years I give it a good spray-over with a silicone spray (NOT a DWR).

Does it bond to the silnylon? I think (but do not KNOW) that it does bond a bit. That said, be aware that the silicone polymers are slightly soluble, and will wear off over time. Caution: do NOT (NOT) try putting a fluorocarbon DWR onto silicone. They do NOT mix!

Does it improve the water repellency? Yes, certainly. I have tested that with a hose.

I have used an Atsko Silicone Waterguard recently: that was fine. I can’t remember what others i may have used in the past.

Cheers

Yes, spray does work. That said, it does not work as well as caulk/mineral spirits at about 15-20 parts mineral spirits to 1 part caulk. Go thinner than you need and do both sides by simply brushing it on with a dollar “chip” brush. (Note, the interior can get a bit stifling, remember to come up for air!)

Cost of a gallon of mineral spirits: ~12.00, Cost of 100% pure clear silicone caulk: ~3.00, chip brush was around a dollar. Total was around $16 but should give you enough to do all your weather proof stuff: Rain Jackets, pants, three tarps, a tent (small 2 man), several dry bags, etc…

I do not care for aerosol cans. It took three to do a 9’x12′ tarp (both sides) or around $15.00 for one tarp.

Just in case…
There is silicone waterproofing spray and silicone lubricant spray, do not confuse the two.
I have used the Atsko spray, the liquid version lasts longer but only comes in a 1 gallon can.
If attempting a home made dilution , test it first on a small area of your stuff sack or floor if of the same material as the fly.

Thanks for the info! I have one particular older piece that I’d like to keep alive. It’s not showing deterioration yet, but if there’s something I can do to delay that I figured I’d look into it.

Any recommendations on silicone content in the sprays? It’s hard info to find, but it looks like some are listed in the 13% range. Is that “enough”? I’ll definitely try it on a stuff sack or scrap first – thanks for that idea, Franco.

Much appreciated.