Do HTTs require maintenance on the canvas to prevent leaks?

[bluebonnet]

Two days ago we discovered that our new to us 2003 23B has a leak in the canvas and where the bunk door meets the trailer. I'm wondering if these HTTs have to have the canvas sprayed with water repellent or seam sealer to condition the canvas to keep it from leaking. Would this be a type of maintenance that a HTT requires? We asked the guy we bought it from if he had ever put any water repellent on the canvas he said no. Should we have to put anything on the canvas?

[DocBrown]

I pretty much answered this in your other thread. Did you try what I suggested to track down the exact place it's leaking?

Do you have any pictures of where it leaks?

We've had our X20E for over 2 years (3rd season now), and we had our previous hybrid for 10 years (a 2003 Jayco Kiwi 17a). We've never done anything special for the canvas. Just washed it when tree drippings made it look crappy.

[arkhillbilly]

The canvas should have been treated when mfg. It will loose this treatment over time due to exposure to elements, etc. You can buy this treatment should you desire.

[bluebonnet]

I haven't bought the sealant yet but I'm just wondering if I should not only treat where it's leaking at a seam but treat both bunk ends at all the seams since I'm sure it's never been done.

DocBrown do you know if I can get that at Walmart, Lowes or Gander Mountain or do i have to order online. Thanks.

[DocBrown]

We have an independently owned camping/hiking store nearby called Sherpers that I buy stuff like that from. But Gander Mountain should have it. I think Wal-Mart does too. Yes, just reseal all the seams. Buy a couple of tubes, it's not expensive stuff.

[Jagiven]

Personally from my backpacking days, I do not like any of the seam sealer products, overtime they are sticky and cause issues, and look bad. If I was going to use something I would look at something light weight that could be sprayed on, when dry is invisible.

[DocBrown]

Interesting. I've had a tent and 2 pop-ups with standard canvas and never experienced stickiness issues. Losing it effectiveness after a few years, yes.