Waterproofing via seam sealing
Posted: Fri Aug 29, 2014 7:45 amAfter extensive testing I've got some advice to offer on making a Paradox Pack rain/waterproof.
- A pack that hasn't been seam sealed is fine without a rain cover in a light quick rain, mist, or short drizzle. Rainproofing beyond that requires seam sealing.
- Seam seal the exterior seams of the pack. Sealing the interior seams of the pack bag does little to no good.
- Take your time and do a good job. Test afterward to see if you missed any spots. I test with a 15 minute drenching rain via water hose sprayed up in the air.
- Thin silicon caulking (I prefer GE brand clear) with mineral sprits till it is pretty thin, then suck it up in a small syringe. Use this to apply it to the seam. It gives a very very clean look when done. The other option is a small foam brush which is faster and easier, but doesn't look as good.
Observations:
- Side zips don't affect waterproofness in rain as long as a Talon is used. The compression and Talon hold the rain flap down and I've seen no water penetration through the zipper.
- Base and Hydro Talons are very water resistant without seam sealing. VERY. I personally won't seal one, but if I did I'd turn it inside out and seal the inside, vs sealing the exterior on a pack bag.
Video on sealing:
- A pack that hasn't been seam sealed is fine without a rain cover in a light quick rain, mist, or short drizzle. Rainproofing beyond that requires seam sealing.
- Seam seal the exterior seams of the pack. Sealing the interior seams of the pack bag does little to no good.
- Take your time and do a good job. Test afterward to see if you missed any spots. I test with a 15 minute drenching rain via water hose sprayed up in the air.
- Thin silicon caulking (I prefer GE brand clear) with mineral sprits till it is pretty thin, then suck it up in a small syringe. Use this to apply it to the seam. It gives a very very clean look when done. The other option is a small foam brush which is faster and easier, but doesn't look as good.
Observations:
- Side zips don't affect waterproofness in rain as long as a Talon is used. The compression and Talon hold the rain flap down and I've seen no water penetration through the zipper.
- Base and Hydro Talons are very water resistant without seam sealing. VERY. I personally won't seal one, but if I did I'd turn it inside out and seal the inside, vs sealing the exterior on a pack bag.
Video on sealing: