| Vapor Proof Treatments In an earlier websection, I mentioned the use of spray-on vapor-proof treatments to seal the bottom hammock fabric against the entry of cold air (to reduce convective heat loss). This is often my first line of defense in the battle to stay warm as the seasonal temperatures drop. Waterproof or windproof treatments work equally well. They are readily available and easily applied without adding any significant weight to the hammock. The usual silicone or durable-water-resistant (DWR) treatments come in convenient spray cans and can be purchased at outdoors stores or sporting goods departments of large variety retailers. In 2002, a 10.5-ounce can of Silicone Water-Guard cost about $3 at Wal-Mart. It is sufficient for two applications; allow the fabric to dry between sprayings. Two of these silicone treatments add about 0.6 ounce to an eight-by-five foot hammock. Although
silicone treatments are less expensive and may be more vapor proof than
DWR treatments, they may also be harder to remove by washing as described
earlier; try multiple washings with detergent and fabric softener. Many
hammock fabrics come with original DWR treatments and may not need additional
treatments until they have undergone multiple washings.
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