Repair Limitations

We can fix most things!

We're always happy to assess and evaluate your gear, and do everything we can to get it running again! However, occasionally we come across gear where the damage is so extensive, repairs or component replacement would be cost prohibitive, and the best course of action would be to get new gear. We refer to these items as "unrepairable".

Here are a few examples of damage that can render gear unrepairable:

Damaged or missing zipper teeth

Most worn out or catchy zippers can be repaired by replacing the zipper slider, and we're happy to make this repair! Damage to the zipper teeth/coil is frequently deemed unrepairable.

UV Damage

Extended exposure to direct sunlight can cause UV damage, which makes your gear brittle and compromises the integrity of the fabric. UV damaged fabric is extremely prone to tears and attempts at repair can cause further damage.

Burn Damage/Melting

While some small burn holes can be patched, larger burns and melted fabric compromises and distorts the fabric, making repairs ineffective.

Large Tears

Multiple large tears or single large tears across multiple fabric panels are generally unrepairable. The cost of re-sealing and waterproofing repairs increases with larger repairs and can contribute to a repair being deemed cost prohibitive.

Numerous Small Holes

Multiple large tears or single large tears across multiple panels are generally unrepairable. Sometimes we refer to this phenomenon as "Starry night" damage, and it is often caused by an unsecured tent taking flight, or extended UV damage. The cost of re-sealing and waterproofing repairs increases with each hole that needs patching, and can contribute to a repair being deemed cost prohibitive.

Abrasions

Damage caused by abrasions is often unrepairable. When abraded gear is held up to a light we frequently find the damaged area is larger than what is normally visible. Abrasions are closely inspected and can be patched around if the total area of abrasions is small enough.

Duct Tape Repairs

We strongly recommend against using duct tape for at-home repairs. Duct tape doesn't adhere well to the materials used in our tents, and leaves behind a sticky residue that often makes later stitch repairs impossible. We recommend keeping around some Tenacious Tape, K Tape, NoSo patches, or other gear-specific tape with your tent for on-trail repairs. In general, you'll want to remove any tape on your gear before sending it in for a professional repair.

Poles

Most polesets can be repaired by replacing damaged segments or stretched out shock cord. Individual segments that have chipped or puckered ends, cracks, or severe bends can be replaced. If the majority of the segments are damaged, the best course may be to purchase a new poleset. If the entire aluminum poleset shows signs of corrosion, it will need to be replaced. Please note that some polesets come with pre-bent segments. Additionally, some polesets form slight memory bends with use that don’t need to be replaced; similar to breaking in a pair of hiking boots.

Used Gear Evaluations

Got unrepairable gear? Don't toss it! Send that gear to us - we'll recycle all of the salvageable components to help out future customers in need of replacement parts, and give you a credit that you can use towards new gear! To get started, open a repair case.