Patching Tents & Tarps

Patching is a quick and economical way to prolong the life of tents, tarps, and other items made from industrial fabrics. 

Special considerations should be made when repairing an item over new fabrication: 

• Clean area well with soap and water
  • Be sure to rinse well to remove all residue
  • Clean at least 6” on all sides of area being repaired
  • Ensure item is fully dry before welding
• Cut patch 2” larger on all sides than area being repaired
• Ensure patch is the same material type as item being repaired
  • Remember: only like materials can be welded

Before repairing your item, be sure to do a test weld with excess patching material to ensure your weld will be strong. Perform a rip test to check the integrity of the weld; if you can see the scrim of the material, the weld is good. Once you have found the correct temperature and technique, you’re ready to patch your item. 

• Lay material on flat, sturdy surface that will not be damaged by heat
  • Try to avoid surfaces that may act is a heat sink (steel or other metals), you want your weld to cool naturally, and avoid any practices that will cause accelerated cooling
• Anchor material to avoid movement during welding
• Centre patch over area being repaired on outside of item
  • Optional: Use a small amount of tape to secure the patch while you start your weld, remove after patch is tacked in place
• Begin welding
  • Insert nozzle at an angle between overlapped material
  • Place pressure roller on top piece of material, close to nozzle and apply pressure in a back-and-forth rolling motion
  • Move nozzle and roller simultaneously along the overlap until weld is complete
• Allow weld to cool completely
• Use seam probe to test weld for gaps or voids, re-welding areas if necessary
• Optional: Repeat this procedure on the opposite side of the fabric
  • This may be desired for tents or other items that are seen from both sides to improve the final look

 
We offer a fabric welding kit for first time users; our kit contains the TRIAC ST hot air tool, a wide slot nozzle, and a silicon roller – everything you need to repair your tent or tarp. Click here for more information. Give us a call for pricing at 1-888-438-6324 or contact your Technical Sales Representative for more information on fabric welding and repair. 
 
Originally published: 10/08/2014