The awning contacts external elements so frequently. Hence, it will degrade over time. You may be wondering: “How can I get a replacement rainfly for my tent?”
First, you use products from a manufacturer that offers the replacement service. Then, check your item’s model number, brand name, and dimensions.
Next, ask the company to replace your gear. You will receive the same item that works well with your tents. Also, expect to pay some cost for this service.
When Do You Need To Get A Rainfly Replacement?
Some tent manufacturers offer a rainfly replacement for their customers. It would be best to choose these brands because you will need this service one day, especially in these cases;
Add extra waterproofing
Aside from some sealing, the rainfly is a waterproofing solution. It adds an extra layer to the top of your tent. You will be confident of staying safe in the rain.
The replacing product fits your tent perfectly in terms of size and construction. As a result, it offers a higher level of protection.
The current fly is too old
You want to replace something simply because the current one is too old.
The rainfly is indispensable for outdoor activities in hostile weather. If it breaks down, things will become a mess.
One piece of advice is to maintain the sheet regularly. If you don’t feel like fixing the holes on the fly, consider the replacement.
Pros And Cons Of Rainfly Replacement
Rainfly replacement is helpful, but not all campers go for this option. Once you’ve known the pros and cons of this approach, you may also want to reconsider your decision.
Pros
The rainfly is the tent’s outer protective layer that surrounds the body of the tent. Rain and intense sunlight can’t enter your shelter thanks to this layer.
The rainfly includes water-repellent fabric. Campers have to replace it as soon as possible if it’s missing or broken.
Without this protective barrier, campers are in danger of risky exposure to outer elements.
Cons
When you replace the rainfly, you’ll boost its quality. Yet, the expense of upgrading may be a big problem. Some people return the whole tent instead.
Choosing the appropriate rainfly replacement takes some time and effort. You have to pick up the one that matches your tent’s material and size.
Rainfly Replacement Options
The leading brands for rainfly replacement are Coleman, MSR, Big Agnes, and R.E.I. They also offer part replacement to give their customer’s the best service.
Coleman
Many Coleman tents come with a rainfly. They all come from heavy-duty fabrics to withstand severe winds and rains.
Since the company also provides replacing parts, you can use your tent and camping gear for longer.
Here are some options of the brand that you may want to try:
- Sundome tent for 2 persons
This compact tent features a polyester awning. Setting up or replacing the fly is also easier, thanks to the size.
Even when the awning rests on top, the ventilation function of this tent is quite good, making your camping comfortable. Moreover, the interior will always be cool.
- Connectable tent for 3 persons
This model is perfect for a group of three to six people because it’s spacious. Hence, it has got many positive responses from customers.
The material for this tent’s rainfly is also polyester. It shares the same waterproofing ability as the previous product.
Despite the size, you still find it easy to put up your shelter. If you want to change the awning, you won’t waste a lot of time too.
MSR
The most significant part about this brand is that it sells a rainfly repair kit.
This package includes four self-adhesive patches that can work outdoors or at home to make quick, simple, and durable repairs.
The transparent patches stick to both uncoated and coated materials, allowing you to fix minor damage.
Some of the highly recommended options for MSR are:
- Hubba Hubba
Hubba Hubba is the most popular tent from the brand. Campers love this option because of its durability, ease of setup, and weather resistance.
The rainfly has a coating of DuraShield to strengthen waterproofing. Replacing it is also a breeze, thanks to the simple construction.
- Elixir
MSR applies ripstop nylon to make rainflies. Hence, the fly stays securely on the tent without chances of whipping during windy nights.
Big Agnes replacement support
Big Agnes pays back the cost of the new item as well as delivery to your location. You can recycle the broken gear or bring it back to the manufacturer for a partial refund after you get the new item.
If you like this service, you can opt for one of these choices from the Big Agnes:
- Copper Spur
Copper Spur is the premium product of the brand. It offers a high degree of comfort.
The awning has a zipper to make it quicker for setting up. However, it may snag sometimes.
- CBAR 2
This model is best for backpacks due to its lightweight. Although convenience is its priority, it doesn’t sacrifice durability.
The awning stays fixed on the pole structure, coming along with Velcro tabs. Hence, you don’t need to worry about stability.
R.E.I
R.E.I allows you to replace different parts of the tent and camping gear, not just the rainfly. However, there may be only a universal size for the replacement.
These options should be your way to go:
- Co-op half dome
This model is freestanding but very durable. You will pitch it up with the awning at ease. The roomy space inside is best for tall people, who often look miserable when sleeping in a tent.
- Co-op passage
Another preferable model from R.E.I is the co-op passage. It has similar features to the half dome but comes with a footprint for better protection.
How Can I Get A Replacement Rainfly For My Tent?
When you have any problem with the rainfly, you can replace it with a new one or repair it. Both bring a new look to the awning while still helping to maintain security.
Replace with the same model from the manufacturer
As aforementioned, many suppliers provide replacement policies for their customers. You need to contact them and ask about your replacement parts.
Remember that tents are available in different materials and sizes. It’s necessary to find the awning that fits the tent so that water can’t leak in the space between your shelter and the fly.
You can check the model number and brand name, then ask the manufacturer for the compatible product.
Once you’ve received the new model, pitch it as you did with the previous one.
Since you are using the correct gear for your tent, putting it up is easy. This video will show you how to do it if you are still confused.
Repair the fly
If you want to save money for other expenses during your trip, you can fix the fly yourself. Since the replacement costs some fees, many campers choose this method. Here is how to do it:
- Immerse your rainfly in cold water with odorless washing detergent to dissolve the coating.
- If there are any harder spots left, wash them with rubbing alcohol.
- Rinse the fly thoroughly to remove the coating completely.
- Allow the fly to dry in the open air.
- Wash the fly lightly with a brush to eliminate any urethane particles remaining. More rubbing alcohol may be necessary for stubborn stains.
- Add a waterproofing agent to clean the fly. You can use McNett for the underside, and Revivex for the fly’s outside for further protection.
- Place the fly with the underside pointing up on the ground.
- Now, follow the instructions of the waterproofing product to treat the fly.
What Can You Use As A Rainfly?
If you are camping and realize that your rainfly has broken down, you can’t contact the manufacturer for any replacement. Moreover, the waterproofing method takes so much time to do.
In this case, you can opt for rainfly alternatives, such as the tarp or tent footprint.
Tarp
Some people confuse a tarp and a rainfly because they look so similar. They both rest on the top of a tent too.
A tarp is a large sheet of waterproof and durable material. The most common materials for tarps are canvas and polyester. Most tarps have a coating of polyurethane for extra resistance.
The tarp has grommets that work as connection points. They allow campers to peg down or suspend the tarp for different purposes.
Some pros and cons of this option are:
Pros:
- Multiple-purpose tool (You can use it as a picnic mat, an independent shelter, or a rainfly)
- Durable
- High protection from other external elements
Cons:
- Heavy
- Only available in a few sizes
Tent footprint
A footprint is a water-resistant layer of fabric that is generally made of polyethylene and polyester.
This tool aims to protect the tent’s base and prevent anything sharp from piercing it and minimize wear and tear.
Campers often set the footprint on the ground first, then pitch the tent up. The footprint should be at least the same size (or bigger) as the tent’s bottom. A larger size ensures that it can protect the floor adequately.
Pros:
- Base protection
- Lightweight
- Moisture resistant
- Available in a specific size for tents
Cons:
- Not very flexible
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about rainfly replacement.
1. Do all tent manufacturers offer replacements?
No. Only some of them offer this service. You may want to consider R.E.I, Coleman, MSR, and Big Agnes for your purchase.
2. How to fix a torn rainfly?
The best way to repair a torn fly is to apply some waterproofing product on it.
Many users recommend McNett and Revivex for this task. They can add a more secure protection layer for the awning and fill the tear nicely.
3. Can you use DIY rainfly?
DIY rainflies may not fit the tents perfectly. However, it’s worth trying because it helps save a lot of money.
If you like this approach, try to find a waterproof material, durable, and lightweight, such as polyester or DCF.
Also, measure the tents carefully to determine the correct size of a fly that matches.
Final Words
Campers have increasing demands for their trips. As a result, manufacturers always try to adapt these requirements, such as establishing replacement services for camping gear.
In addition to this method, you can also try to fix the fly. Alternatively, replace it with a tarp, a footprint, or a DIY fly. However, the compatible fly is the best way to go, if you don’t mind the extra cost.
Hopefully, you will find the tips above helpful. If you need any further information, please feel free to ask. Thank you for being interested in the article!
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