Top Tips for Maintaining & Protecting Your Pop-Up ShelterIt Tent

ShelterIt PVC freestanding tents are increasing in popularity, as they provide a number of uses for businesses, from temporary workshops to pop-up warehouses. 

However, it is essential to look after them properly, as this will ensure they last as long as possible. 

Here are some tips on how maintain and protect your PVC shelter:

- Clean regularly

Once the tent has been set up, it is important to keep it clean. This involves regularly wiping it down with a mild soap and water solution, and gently washing it with a sponge. Avoid using harsh chemicals and abrasive materials, as these will cause damage to the material of the shelter. 

If there are any tough stains, such as grease or oil, you can try a customary spirit on these problem areas. However, it is important to test the solution in a small place first to ensure it does not damage the fabric. 

- Consider the weather

The ever-changing weather in the UK makes it difficult to prepare for all conditions, as it could be sunny and dry one day, and windy and rainy the next. 

Despite this, it is sensible to keep the tarp taut, as this will prevent wear and tear when it is windy outside. If the material starts to flap in the wind, this can result in deterioration of the fabric. 

It is also wise to pay attention to the tent after snowfall, as the heavy, wet snow can weigh down on the roof of the tent. Make sure to remove the remaining snow off the tent from the inside, if possible. You might need to use a broom or a ladder, if the ceiling is high up, but make sure the snow does not remain on the material. 

Should the temperature fall and the snow freeze, this can cause significant damage to the fabric. 

It is not just wind, rain and snow that can harm the tarp though, as UV rays can cause deterioration as well. Prolonged exposure to the sun can make it more susceptible to damage, so it is wise to set up the shelter in a shaded area, if possible. 

Alternatively, you may want to apply a UV-resistant spray on to the material, as this will protect the fabric from the radiation.

- Store in dry area

When the pop-up warehouse is taken down, it is essential it is completely dry before being stored away so no moisture is trapped in the material. It should also be stored in a clean, dry environment, as this helps to prevent mould and mildew from forming. 

If there are areas of mould, treat these immediately with a solution of vinegar and water. However, it is a good idea to try a weak solution on a small area first, in case it damages the fabric. 

- Fix tears asap

If any tears or holes are detected in the tarp, make sure these are repaired immediately. Pay particular attention to seams and zips, as these are usually where rips occur. 

You can use PVC fabric glue to the area, and hopefully, the tear will seal back together. Do not ignore the problem though, as small holes can become much bigger issues if they are not addressed early on. 

By repairing little tears as soon as possible, this avoids having to spend lots of money on fixing the shelter later and extends the lifespan of the tent.