Tent Care Guide

This a tent & awning fabric care, maintenance, and warranty guide

Contents

We encourage you to take a few moments to review the guide, as it includes valuable insights on user tips, maintenance tips & warranty information.

Thank you very much for choosing Outback Jacks for your tent or awning purchase. At Outback Jacks, we're passionate about helping our customers enjoy the great outdoors with confidence. We truly appreciate your trust in our products and are delighted to be a part of your outdoor adventures. Whether you're gearing up for your next camping trip or planning a relaxing getaway, we hope your new tent or awning brings you comfort and joy for many years to come.

If you have any questions about your purchase, need further assistance, or would like additional recommendations for your outdoor gear, please don't hesitate to get in touch. Our team is always happy to help. services@outbackjacks.ie

Happy camping!

Disclaimer: This guide provides general recommendations for the care and maintenance of your tent or awning. It does not cover every potential issue or situation that may arise. For specific concerns or detailed instructions, please refer to the manufacturer's guidelines or contact customer support. Always exercise your best judgment and seek professional advice when necessary.

Introduction

A tent or awning can be one of the most valuable outdoor investments you'll ever make. To help you maximise the life, functionality, and comfort of your new tent or awning, we've created this comprehensive guide filled with practical advice and useful information. Whether you're an experienced camper or embarking on your first outdoor adventure, this guide is designed to ensure you get the most from your purchase.

Tents and awnings, while temporary structures, require proper care and maintenance to perform optimally over the years. By following the recommendations in this document, you can enjoy safe and reliable shelter in the outdoors while saving money in the long run. From set-up tips to storage techniques, our advice will help you prevent unnecessary wear and tear, ensuring your tent withstands the challenges of outdoor life.

Proper care not only enhances your tent's durability but also keeps it ready to protect you in adverse conditions. Routine tasks like cleaning, waterproofing, and checking for damage can prevent long-term issues such as mould or structural weakness. For instance, always ensure your tent is dry before packing it away to avoid moisture damage. Additionally, understanding how to handle extreme weather can prevent costly repairs and preserve your tent's functionality.

As a consumer, it's essential to understand the responsibilities in caring for your tent and know how warranty coverage and consumer laws apply to your purchase. This guide offers a clear outline of your rights, helping you differentiate between issues covered by warranty and those that arise from improper use or neglect.

By reading this guide, you'll also learn how to avoid common pitfalls, such as damage from harsh weather, and how to inspect your tent or awning for potential issues before each use. With the right care and attention, your tent can remain in top condition, providing you with years of enjoyable and dependable shelter for all your outdoor adventures.

User Responsibility: The Importance of Proper Tent Care

Purchasing a tent or awning is an investment, and regular care is essential to ensure its longevity and performance. Follow these key guidelines to keep your gear in excellent condition:

What to Do Before Your First Camping Trip

To ensure your first camping experience with your new tent or awning goes smoothly, we highly recommend taking the time to prepare in advance.

Practice Makes Perfect

Familiarize yourself with your tent or awning by pre-pitching it before your trip. This can be done in your garden, a local park, or any open space where you have enough room.

Why Pre-Pitching is Important:

• Check for Functionality: Verify that your tent or awning is in perfect working condition and that all components, such as poles, beams, pegs, air pumps and guylines, are included and undamaged.
• Learn to Pitch and Pack Away: Gain confidence and experience setting up and taking down your tent or awning. This ensures you're not learning on the spot in potentially stressful or poor weather conditions.
• Avoid Disappointments: Discover and address any issues, such as missing parts, before your trip, reducing the risk of frustration or delays during your camping adventure.

Tips for Success:

• Follow the Manufacturer's Guidelines: Read the instructions carefully and watch any available setup videos to ensure you're pitching your tent or awning correctly.
• Inspect for Potential Repairs: Look for any small issues that may require attention, such as loose seams or minor tears, and address them before you leave.

This small effort before your trip will help ensure your camping experience is stress-free, allowing you to focus on enjoying the outdoors.

Failure to follow the above recommendations could result in challenges when you arrive at your holiday destination and attempt to set up your tent or awning. If any issues arise, it may delay our ability to assist you as promptly as you would like. Taking these preparatory steps ensures a smoother camping experience and minimizes potential disruptions.

Reproofing

Reproof your tent or awning every 12-24 months to protect it from UV degradation and maintain the durable water-repellent (DWR) coating on the fabric. This helps water bead and roll off effectively. Use a dedicated reproofer; we recommend Fabsil for the best results.

Packing Up

Always pack your tent or awning dry and clean as soon as possible after use. Leaving it wet for too long can cause mold, which may or may not void your warranty.

Pitching

Follow the manufacturer's guidelines when setting up your tent or awning. Proper pitching is critical for ensuring structural stability and preventing damage.

Repairs & Maintenance

Regularly inspect your tent or awning and address any issues promptly:

• Tears: Use repair tape, such as Tenacious Tape, for a reliable fix.
• Broken Poles: Always bring a pole repair kit or duct tape for emergency fixes. Fixing broken poles is part of the camping experience, and there are plenty of helpful tutorials on YouTube.
• Pegs & Guylines: Replace damaged items immediately to maintain structural integrity.

Weather Awareness

Camping in heavy rain, high winds, or storms not only compromises your safety but can also cause significant damage to your tent. While tents are designed to handle mild to moderate weather, they are not built to withstand extreme conditions. High winds can strain poles, beams, guylines, seams, and fabric, potentially causing breakage and storm damage. While prolonged rain exposure can saturate the material, making it difficult to dry, please ensure your tent or awning is completely dry before packing it away.

If you unexpectedly face adverse weather, you may consider going home. If this is not an option be sure to secure your tent firmly without applying excessive force. Look for natural windbreaks, such as trees or hills, to provide additional protection, and make sure your tent is properly pegged down. However, whenever possible, avoid camping in extreme weather to ensure your safety and extend the life of your tent.

Never camp during a weather warning. Check the forecast before your trip, as camping in extreme weather may cause storm damage, which is not covered by the manufactures warranty.

Storage

Store your tent or awning in a cool, dry place when not in use. Ensure it is completely dry and clean to prevent mildew or material degradation.

By following these care and maintenance practices, you'll protect your investment and enjoy safe, comfortable camping experiences for years to come.

Care & Maintenance

Keep It Dry

Packing away a damp tent is a big mistake and can lead to rot, mold, and odors, all of which are not covered by the manufacturing warranty.

Drying Tips:

• Pitch it in the garden: Flip the flysheet to dry the bottom, placing it on a clean surface like a footprint or old bed sheet.
• Use a washing line: Hang the tent to let air circulate through the flysheet and inners.
• Open doors to speed up drying.
• Stair banister/shower rail: Keep the tent off the floor and allow water to drip. Protect surfaces with towels.
• Garage drying: Use a makeshift washing line in a well-ventilated area.
• If you have the space, pitching the tent and allowing it to dry naturally

Never place your tent or flysheet in a tumble dryer

Keep It Clean

No one wants to camp with a dirty tent. Once dry, inspect and clean your tent:

• Use wipes, a towel, or a soft brush to clean the groundsheet.
• A portable vacuum can remove crumbs and dry mud, but use gently to avoid damage.
• Clean tent pockets and the tent bottom if you haven't used a footprint.

TIP: Footprints protect your tent's underside and are easy to scrub and dry. As well as giving extra protection to the groundsheet when pitched on rough ground.

Repair & Maintain

Before reproofing or storing your tent, check for damage:

• Tears: Use Gear Aid Tenacious Tape or repair patches for flysheet/groundsheet holes.
  • Cut a material swatch to size.
  • Ensure the tear is clean and dry.
  • Apply adhesive tape to both sides of the fabric.
• Mildew: If mold appears, treat it immediately with diluted Milton sterilizing fluid to stop spreading and reduce odors (note: this won't remove stains). There are helpful guides on the internet to help stop mould spread.

Reproof Regularly

Reproof your tent annually or if you notice “wetting out” (fabric absorbing water instead of beading).

Reproofing restores water repellency and UV protection.

• Recommended Product: Fabsil Universal Protector with UV Filter.
• Application:
  • Use a spray gun or brush for even application.
  • Pitch the tent or lay it flat for easier access.
  • Apply to the flysheet panel by panel, catching drips with a sponge.
  • Allow it to dry completely before packing.

Store It Properly

Proper storage is critical to maintaining your tent's quality:

• Environment: Store in a cool, dry space. Ensure it's clean and completely dry before packing loosely.
• Accessories: Store poles, pumps, and other items in separate bags to avoid damage to the tent fabric.
• Camping Kit: Store sleeping bags, rucksacks, and kitchen gear in the same cool, dry place.
  • Clean and fold furniture as purchased.
  • Remove and recharge/replace batteries to ensure readiness for your next trip.

TIP: Avoid over-packing your storage area to prevent damage to delicate items.

Be Weather Smart

Hot and humid weather can cause beams and sleeves to expand, potentially leading to bursting. To minimize this risk, release a small amount of air from the beam using the deflate valve during periods of high temperature and humidity. This precaution helps accommodate the expansion caused by heat.

Note: When the temperature drops, such as later in the evening or during cooler weather, remember to re-inflate the beams to maintain optimal performance.

Important Notes

• This guide provides general care advice and does not address every possible issue.
• Always consult the manufacturer's guidelines for detailed care instructions and warranty compliance.

Condensation in Tents

Condensation happens even to the most seasoned campers. If you wake up to moisture inside your tent or a small puddle, it's easy to think your tent has leaked, but most likely, it's just condensation — a natural part of camping. Use this guide to better understand and manage it.

Condensation or a Leak?

It's rare for a quality tent to leak. Most tents, like those from Vango or Outwell, are crafted with waterproof fabrics, heat-sealed seams, and durable stitching to keep water out. If you notice water inside, condensation is the more likely culprit.

How Much Condensation is Normal?

Condensation levels can be surprising:

• One person: Produces up to 1 pint (568ml) of moisture overnight.
• Five people: Add up to 5 pints (2.36L) of water inside the tent.

Other sources of moisture include wet clothing, shoes, pets, cooking, and even the air itself. For instance, the air inside an empty 6-person tent can hold about 1 pint of water.

Causes of Condensation in Tents

Condensation forms when warm air meets the cooler fabric of the tent, turning moisture into liquid.

Common causes include:

• People: Body heat and breath increase humidity.
• Heaters: Electric or gas heaters warm the air, increasing its moisture-holding capacity.
• Poor Ventilation: Closed or blocked vents trap warm, moist air inside.

Do All Tents Get Condensation?

Yes, but design and materials play a role:

• Double-wall tents (with inner bedrooms and good ventilation) handle condensation better than single-wall tents.
• Polycotton tents breathe better than polyester, reducing condensation buildup.
• Air tents: Air beams can collect condensation due to rapid cooling inside the beams, creating water droplets or pooling at the base.

Weather & Location Impact

• Cold Nights: When the temperature drops significantly, condensation increases.
• Rainy Conditions: High humidity in the air adds moisture and cools tent fabric, accelerating condensation.
• Pitch Location: Camping near water, waterfalls, or in dense forests increases humidity and condensation risk.

Managing a Condensation-Prone Tent

If you notice condensation:

1. Wipe It Down: Use a towel or cloth to remove moisture from tent walls and prevent drips.
2. Maximize Ventilation: Keep doors and vents open or unobstructed. If your tent has mosquito net doors, use them to increase airflow.
3. Keep Wet Items Out: Store damp clothing, shoes, or gear outside the tent.
4. Consult Manufacturer Guidelines: Follow specific ventilation instructions for your tent model.

Tips for Reducing Condensation

• Turn Off Heaters: Warm air holds more moisture, which condenses on cool tent surfaces. Instead, dress warmly and use high-quality sleeping bags.
• Choose Your Pitch Wisely: Camp in open areas with good airflow, away from water sources like rivers or lakes.
• Cook Outside: Cooking generates significant moisture. For safety and comfort, always cook outdoors.

By understanding condensation and following these tips, you can enjoy a more comfortable camping experience. Remember, condensation is natural—it's how you manage it that makes the difference!

UV Degradation in Tents and Awnings: Causes and Prevention

Tents and awnings are essential camping companions, but they face wear and tear from an often-overlooked source: ultraviolet (UV) rays. Over time, UV exposure can weaken the materials, causing discoloration, brittleness, and reduced waterproofing. This guide will help you understand UV degradation and provide tips to prolong the life of your tent or awning.

What is UV Degradation?

UV degradation occurs when prolonged exposure to sunlight breaks down the fibers of tent and awning materials. Even high-quality fabrics with built-in UV resistance will eventually show signs of damage if not cared for properly.

Common effects include:

• Fading Colors: UV rays bleach the fabric, leading to noticeable discoloration.
• Weakened Fabric: The material becomes brittle and more prone to tearing.
• Reduced Waterproofing: UV exposure can deteriorate the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating, making the fabric less effective at repelling water.

How to Minimize UV Damage

1. Avoid Prolonged Sun Exposure

Tents and awnings are not designed to be left pitched for extended periods, as UV exposure increases significantly the longer they remain outside.

• Short-Term Use Only: Use your tent or awning for camping trips, not as a semi-permanent structure.
• Find Shade: If possible, pitch your tent or awning in a shaded area to limit direct sunlight exposure.
• Rotate Pitching Locations: Move the tent or awning occasionally to reduce uneven wear on certain areas exposed to the sun.

2. Reproof Your Tent or Awning Regularly

Reproofing your tent or awning every 12-24 months is vital for maintaining its UV resistance and waterproofing properties.

• Why Reproofing Matters: A fresh DWR coating not only restores water repellency but also enhances the fabric's ability to withstand UV damage.
• Recommended Product: Use a reputable reproofing solution like Fabsil Universal Protector, which includes UV filters to protect the fabric from sun damage.

How to Reproof:

1. Clean the fabric to remove dirt and debris.
2. Lay the tent or awning flat or pitch it taut for easy application.
3. Apply the reproofing solution evenly with a spray or sponge.
4. Allow it to dry thoroughly before packing or using.

Signs Your Tent or Awning Needs Reproofing

Keep an eye out for these signs:

• Water Absorption: Instead of water beading on the surface, it soaks into the fabric.
• Fading or Discoloration: Visible signs of UV damage indicate the fabric's UV resistance is compromised.
• Brittle Texture: A rough, stiff feel suggests the material has deteriorated.

Storage Tips to Prevent UV Damage

• Pack Away When Not in Use: Always pack your tent or awning when it's dry and clean to prevent mold and mildew, which can exacerbate UV damage.
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing in direct sunlight or humid environments.

Tent & Awning Warranty Policy

At Outback Jacks, we strive to ensure that your camping experience is enjoyable and that your tent or awning performs as expected. Our warranty process is designed to resolve any genuine manufacturing defects efficiently, with a clear understanding of the steps involved.

Warranty Claims & Inspection Process

All tent and awning warranty claims must undergo a thorough inspection by trained, qualified personnel. If we do not identify a manufacturing fault or defect, your product may be sent to the manufacturer for a professional inspection to determine the cause of the issue.

We work closely with our manufacturers to handle all warranty claims and repairs. If you believe your product has a manufacturing defect, please contact us as soon as possible, and we will guide you on the next steps.

If you suspect your tent or awning is leaking, we first need to rule out condensation as a potential cause. Please review our Tent Care Guide on condensation before proceeding with a return.

Submitting Your Warranty Claim

Please provide a detailed description of the issue or fault via email to services@outbackjacks.ie. The more information you can provide, the quicker and more accurately we can address the problem.

Please include any images and videos to help us understand the issue.

Please bear in mind that due to seasonal demand and third-party courier services, there may be a delay in organizing collections. After the inspection, please allow time for the product to be returned to us.

Inspection & Repair Costs

If, after professional inspection, it is determined that the issue is not a manufacturing defect or is due to normal wear and tear, you will be responsible for any repair costs and all related carriage charges.

Product Condition for Inspection

Please ensure that your product is clean, dry, and packed in its proper bag when returning it for inspection. We cannot accept tents or awnings that are wet, excessively dirty, or have mould growth due to Health & Safety concerns. Any items that do not meet these conditions will be returned without inspection. Failure to comply with this may void your warranty due to mistreatment of the product.

Special Note on Tents & Awnings Over 30kg

Tents and awnings over 30kg must be returned on a pallet for inspection. Please ensure that your product is properly packed, as we will not accept products that are not in suitable condition for inspection.

Warranty Coverage

This warranty covers the functional performance of the product when used according to its intended purpose. However, it does not cover malfunctions resulting from:

• Improper or unreasonable use e.g. left abandoned in a storm or pitched for a long duration, not following manufacturing instructions.
• Lack of proper maintenance
• Accidents or misuse
• Excessive weather conditions (e.g., high winds, heavy rain, camping during weather warnings)
• Improper repacking
• Natural degradation due to UV exposure

Common Damage Not Covered Under Warranty

The following damage is considered not covered under warranty and is typically treated as "fair wear and tear":

• General wear and tear from extended use
• Fabric damage caused by excessive wear
• UV degradation
• Water ingress from UV degradation
• Water ingress through seams due to abrasion or seam sealant wear
• Broken zips caused by forcing or improper use
• Over-tensioned seams coming apart
• Buckles subjected to undue force or abrasion
• Damaged carry bags from overloading, misuse, or using the bag for other items
• Pole breakages/beam punctures (deemed fair wear and tear, this is a minor component that can be repaired. No refunds given)
• Broken guylines, these break due to storm damage or UV degradation.
• Collateral damage from pole breakages/beam punctures
• Condensation, generally caused by insufficient ventilation
• Use in rental companies, outdoor centers, or other commercial or non-profit organizations

Inspection and Final Decision

In any warranty claim situation, the manufacturing brand reserves the right to inspect the product for a manufacturing fault or defect. They will advise on the outcome once the inspection is complete.

For further questions or if you need guidance on any aspect of your warranty claim, please contact us at services@outbackjacks.ie.

Online Returns Policy

We want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. If you change your mind, you are entitled to return the goods within 14 calendar days under the Distance Selling Regulations. This 14-day period begins the day after you receive your order.

Tents & Awnings: Items such as tents and awnings that have been removed from their original fold or pitched are no longer in perfect, resellable condition. These products cannot be returned.

How to Return an Item

1. Notify Us: As soon as you decide to return your purchase, please contact us at services@outbackjacks.ie to request a return number. Include your order number in the email.
2. Returns Number: A return number will be issued and must be clearly displayed on the return package. Returns will not be accepted without this number.
3. Condition of Goods: To be eligible for a refund, the item must be:
   • Unused and unopened
   • In its original factory packaging (including any tags, boxes, and labels)
   • Free from any odors, stains, or signs of use
4. Return Costs: You are responsible for the cost of returning the item. If you need assistance, we can arrange for a courier collection at your expense:
   • For items weighing up to 30kg: €12.30 per box (including 23% VAT)
   • For items over 30kg: Returns must be made via pallet and cost €86.10 (including 23% VAT)
5. Please email us for a courier arrangement if needed.

Important Notes:

• Tents & Awnings: Items such as tents and awnings that have been removed from their original fold or pitched are no longer in perfect, resellable condition. These products cannot be returned. If a tent is returned as unused and we find it has been used, we will return it to you without issuing a refund.
• Proof of Posting: We recommend obtaining proof of postage when returning goods, as we cannot be responsible for lost items in transit.
• Refunds: Refunds will be processed within 14 days of receiving the returned product. The refund will be made to the original payment method used. Please note that delivery charges are non-refundable, and loyalty points earned from the purchase will be deducted from the refund amount.

Conditions for Return:

• Return within 14 days of receipt
• Item must be in unused, unworn, and undamaged condition, including no unpleasant odors
• Return with original packaging, labels, and boxes

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in ensuring your returns are processed smoothly.

Manufacturing Defects

If you suspect your item has a manufacturing fault (not a change of mind), please follow these steps:

1. Contact Us First
   • Email services@outbackjacks.ie with details of the fault, including clear images and videos where possible.
2. Return the Item
   • Send the item back in its original packaging bag, where possible, within 14 days of your email. No items will be accepted outside of the items original bag. E.g Tents/awnings must be in their manufacturer's bags.
3. Inspection Process
   • Outback Jacks reserves the right to inspect the product and make a decision within up to 21 working days.
   • For tents, awnings, and waterproof/breathable fabric products, additional inspection by a third-party operations team or the manufacturer may be required. This inspection will take place at the manufacturer's service centre. E.g Vango's service department is located in Glasgow.
4. Poles & Air Beams
   • Please note that poles and air beams are not considered a major fault as they can break due to wear and tear, similar to a tire getting a puncture.
   • These can be repaired/replaced. Please contact us for any information on repairing or replacing your poles or beams.
5. Resolution Options
   • If a manufacturing fault is confirmed, a remedy will be provided in accordance with CCPC regulations. You can read more on this here on faulty items - www.ccpc.ie/consumers/shopping/faulty-goods
6. Shipping & Liability
   • We strongly recommend returning items via recorded delivery with insurance as we cannot be held responsible for lost or undelivered returns.

For any further questions, please reach out to our team at services@outbackjacks.ie.

Vango Tube Replacement: Instructions

The Vango Inflatable Spare Tube is designed to repair your tent/awning using a quick-replace component.

Follow these instructions to replace a leaking AirBear tube:

Removal of existing tube

1. Cut the securing tags, then remove the whole beam (tube and beam-sleeve together) from the tent/awning sleeve (the piece sewn to roof of tent/awning)
2. Lay out the whole beam on a dry, flat and non-abrasive surface
3. Unzip the beam, then remove the leaking tube

Inserting new tube

1. On the new tube, locate the grey inflation valve then insert into the matching aperture on beam-sleeve
2. Unroll the tube along the length of the beam-sleeve, flattening out the tube as you move along. Ensure the tube does not fold or twist.
3. At end closest to the inflation valve, ensure tube is fully unrolled
4. At the other end of the beam-sleeve, insert the tube through a webbing loop then fold over any excess. Adjust the tube to give about 10cm of slack tube - necessary for adjustment during first inflation.
5. The folded tube may have as little as 10 cm, up to about 80cm, of excess. Lay this flat over the top of tube, ensuring a crease-free fold
6. Carefully close the zip of the beam-sleeve - securing with a cable-tie or knotted loop of guyline.

Notes for SI Pro single-inflation tents/awnings

If using the spare tube to replace a Vango SI Pro single-inflation tube:

1. While inserting the new tube, cover the SI Pro valve aperture with a flexible, non-abrasive material - such as the paper bag packaging of this spare tube.
2. This prevents the tube from expanding through the open aperture when inflating. Monitor and adjust when trial inflating.

Trial Inflation

1. Inflate the beam prior to insertion into your tent/awning.
2. Slowly inflate, and if necessary, untwist the sleeve to create a perfect arc with the zip facing inwards.
3. You may need to deflate the beam, open the zip, then adjust the tube to remove twists. Do not open the zip with the tube inflated - this may cause damage to the tube.

Re-inserting the Beam

1. When you have the beam laying flat in a perfect arc it is ready for re-insertion into the tent/awning.
2. Deflate the beam then replace into the tent/awning - ensuring the valve is correctly aligned with the valve aperture on the tent/awning flysheet.
3. Ensure the hook & loop patch is attached onto the corresponding surface on tent/awning, at each end of the beam.

Pole Section Replacement / Repairs

Learning how to replace a tent pole section is a valuable skill for any camper. Unpredictable weather and strong winds can put stress on tent poles, sometimes leading to breakages. Being prepared can help you quickly fix the issue and keep your tent secure.

Please find a very helpful video on how to repair or replace your poles: