Rooftop Tent Care and Maintenance
We recommend that new rooftop tents are opened and the canvas wet down on the outside before first use. Do not spray water onto the air vent above the rear door. This will ensure that your rooftop tent performs flawlessly in wet weather by allowing the poly/cotton core spun thread and canvas to swell ensuring the take up of any potential leaks in the stitching.
Regular Maintenance
- Lubricate the tent seal with silicon gel and clean seal mating surface thoroughly to prevent the seal from 'sticking' to the tent frame.
- Check for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, tears, or loose stitching in the tent fabric, midge mesh and seals.
- Inspect zippers, gas struts, hinges for smooth operation and lubrication.
Cleaning Canvas:
- Do not use soap or detergents on the canvas.
- Do not store the product if wet, allow drying first.
- To clean use a soft brush and cold water.
- Do not expose to petrol, oils or harsh chemicals.
Cleaning Mould From Canvas:
The canvas of The Bush Company Tents is treated during manufacturing with a mould and mildew inhibitor, but in the event that your tent canvas develops mould please follow the steps below to remove it:
- Allow mould to dry
- Remove surface mould off with a stiff bristle brush
- Vacuum the area
- Treat area with Oil of Clove spray (diluted spray can be purchased or can be mixed using a few drops of oil into a spray bottle of water)
Condensation:
Condensation is a natural occurrence, the combination of cold nights and warm days can create a lovely environment for mould and mildew to develop. This is not because of bad seals but from temperature changes combined with humidity creating condensation inside the tent.
When in use, reduce condensation build-up, keep some of the windows open to increase airflow.
After your trip, make sure you allow the tent to fully dry inside and out. If you are not using your rooftop tent for an extended time (more than 10 days) open the tent regularly to air it out, and possibly remove the mattress and store it separately until your next trip.
Tent Frame Care
To ensure the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your powder coated surfaces, regular care and maintenance are essential. Factors such as pollution, dirt, salt, and exposure to strong ultraviolet (UV) light can gradually impact the quality and integrity of the coating over time.
Cleaning Recommendations:
- Remove Loose Dirt: Begin by gently removing any loose dirt or deposits from the surface using a wet sponge. This initial step helps prevent scratching during the cleaning process.
- Use Mild Cleaning Solutions: for general cleaning, utilize a non-abrasive brush or cloth along with a ph-neutral car wash product such as Rig Wash from Revival Offroad to keep the surface of the tent if good condition. These solutions effectively remove dust, salt, and other deposits without causing damage to the powder coating.
- Rinse Thoroughly: after applying the cleaning solution, rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water. This step ensures the removal of any residue or cleaning agents that may be left behind.
Powder Coat Treatment
We recommend that at a minimum of once every six months or if your powder coat surface is fading, the powder coat should be treated with a dedicated powder coat restorer such as Rig Revive. Follow the application directions on the product you select.
Recommended Cleaning Frequency:
- For general use we recommend cleaning and powder coat treatment every six months as a good practice to maintain appearance and coating integrity.
- If your tent is used regularly for beach camping we recommend cleaning the tent after each trip as you should your vehicle.
- If your tent is located in an area with high exposure to pollutants or intense UV radiation from being outside all the time, it should be cleaned and the powder coat treated approximately every three months.
Important Considerations
Avoid Harsh Detergents: Steer clear of detergents that recommend the use of gloves when handling, as they are usually harsh and may be unsuitable for cleaning powder coatings. Instead, opt for a good quality car wash and wax or a similar mild cleaning solution.
Caution with Solvents
While certain solvents are recommended for removing sealants or other building residues, they can potentially harm the extended life of the powder coated surface. To minimise risks, it is best to avoid using solvents unless absolutely necessary. If paint splashes, sealants, or other residues need to be removed, you can safely use methylated spirits, turpentine, or white spirits. However, be cautious as their use may still have long-term effects that may not be immediately visible and could take up to twelve months to appear.
Powder Coat Paint Repair
If the powder coat surface of your tent is damaged and needs to be touched up we recommend the following: