Suggestions for Waterproofing Awning?

ScottG

I have a well-used PahaQue awning in its 9th season that is no longer completely waterproof. In heavy rain, particularly if there is pooling, a little water will drip through the fabric and land in unfortunate places such as my chair cushion or the top of my bald head.

Does anyone have any experience/suggestions/tips for a DIY product that might restore the waterproofing and help me milk a few more years out of this pricey accessory? It's otherwise still in good condition. Thanks! 

Marceline

ScottG said:

I have a well-used PahaQue awning in its 9th season that is no longer completely waterproof. In heavy rain, particularly if there is pooling, a little water will drip through the fabric and land in unfortunate places such as my chair cushion or the top of my bald head.

Does anyone have any experience/suggestions/tips for a DIY product that might restore the waterproofing and help me milk a few more years out of this pricey accessory? It's otherwise still in good condition. Thanks! 

REI has some good advice on waterproofing tents. I’ve always used Nikwax products but there are other options. 

https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/how-to-waterproof-a-tent.html

Sharon_is_SAM

We seal the seams with a tent seam sealer from REI.  Our 7 year old tent drips at the seams in the middle.  Pooling is the problem.  We use an apparatus made of PVC and an extendable tent pole to support the middle of our PahaQue side tent.  

ScottG

Thanks for the tips. Per the REI tips, it looks like replacing the DWC is the path I need to take. There are some seams in the awning, but the leakage seems to just be water percolating directly through the fabric, particularly where there is pooling--a common issue given the design of the PahaQue. Taking a multi-pronged approach, I might also fashion an extendable center support to deploy during rain events.

Horigan

I've had good luck on Sunbrella fabric with this product.
https://www.amazon.com/303-Fabric-Upholstery-Protector-Repellent/dp/B00KMYYQ36?th=1

crosstrnr

Sharon_is_SAM said:

We seal the seams with a tent seam sealer from REI.  Our 7 year old tent drips at the seams in the middle.  Pooling is the problem.  We use an apparatus made of PVC and an extendable tent pole to support the middle of our PahaQue side tent.  

I know this is off-topic from the OP, but could you post a picture of the PVC and tent pole setup? I think that could be useful for my rig.

Sharon_is_SAM

@crosstrnr   Be careful with wind.  It may lift the top of the tent and topple the pole.  Still works well with rain and breaks down into storable pieces.