A well-maintained rooftop tent easily lasts ten years or more. The enemies are mould, UV damage, salt air and loose fasteners — all avoidable with a short seasonal routine. This guide covers cleaning, drying, hardware checks and long-term storage.
After every trip: dry it properly
Mould is the number one cause of ruined canvas. Never pack a tent wet for more than a day. Open it fully at home, wipe it down, and let it air for several hours in shade — never in direct midday sun, which accelerates UV ageing.
Cleaning the fabric
- Use lukewarm water and a soft brush or sponge; avoid detergents, which strip the waterproof coating.
- For stubborn marks use a specialist canvas cleaner, then re-proof if water no longer beads.
- Never machine wash or pressure-wash the canopy.
Zippers, hinges and gas struts
Rinse zippers with fresh water after coastal or dusty trips and use a silicone-free zipper lubricant — never oil, which attracts grit. Wipe the hinge pivots and check that gas springs still lift the shell smoothly; they are consumable parts and are inexpensive to replace as a pair.
Hardware: re-torque every season
Vibration loosens mounting bolts gradually. Re-torque all four bolts at the start of every season and after any long washboard or corrugated road. Inspect the mounting rails for cracks and check the ladder pins seat fully.
Long-term (winter) storage
- Store the tent fully dry, ideally indoors or under a breathable cover — never a sealed plastic tarp, which traps moisture.
- If it stays on the vehicle, park out of direct sun and open it briefly each month.
- Remove bedding and loosen the straps slightly to relieve tension on the fabric.
Repairs worth doing early
Small tears should be patched immediately with canvas repair tape — a 10-minute fix that prevents a season-ending rip. If the canopy has simply worn out after years of use, a complete fabric replacement set restores the tent at a fraction of the cost of a new one.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I re-proof the canvas?
Only when water stops beading on the surface — typically every two to four seasons depending on sun exposure.
Can I leave the tent on the car all year?
You can, but UV exposure and road salt will shorten its life. A breathable cover and a shaded parking spot make a real difference.
What causes mould inside the tent?
Storing it damp and sealed. Always dry it fully and leave a vent slightly open during storage.