Best Practices for Event Tents in the Rain

Although “rain on your wedding day” may be a boon in some cultures, it can compromise the best-laid plans when it comes to organizing a special outdoor event. Of course, most planners are savvy enough to expect the unexpected, which means opting for a weatherproof tent! Weatherproof tents are the smartest option available for maintaining a spacious, classy backdrop while still providing the essential shelter needed to keep the party alive and guests safe and dry. So, what materials are available for event tents and what are your best options for protection when the rain pours in?

What to Expect When Rain is Expected

When rain is in the forecast, multiple factors come into play to ensure the event goes off without a hitch. First, it’s important to remember that where there’s rain, there’s often wind, so your event tent rental will include the materials needed to make sure it’s secure and immobile. In addition, wind can cause rain to fall sideways, so sidewall installation will be considered, as well as umbrellas and matting to keep floors dry and slip-free. Finally, tent placement will be considered so it’s not set up in low-lying areas that can anticipate water collection.

Event Tent Materials

Tents have been around for thousands of years and thankfully, long gone are the days of using animal hides as canopies. Instead, today’s materials include nylon, polyester, cotton canvas, coated cotton and flame retardant vinyl, which also provide sun protection and are naturally waterproof to protect everything inside from rain or snow. 

• Nylon tent canopies use “Rip Stop” technology to prevent tears and may require additional waterproofing for optimal rain resistance.
• Polyester is durable and lightweight, but additional waterproofing may be required for outdoor events.
• Cotton canvas is a rare option today due to its heaviness compared to synthetics, but it’s thick material helps reduce noise and heating and cooling costs.
• Coated Cotton is weaved with waterproofing, or it may be added as a coating after manufacture. It’s sound dampening and insulating but thick and heavy.
• Vinyl is the most commonly used synthetic today, as it is light, versatile, waterproof, and popular for durability and flexibility.

Available Options for Additional Protection

• Many event tents offer additional options for creating a safe, dry and temperate environment when rain is in the forecast:
• Sidewalls are extra pieces of tent material designed to be attached and removed as necessary. These translucent vinyl sheets can be created with clear “window” panels to allow more light into the tent and connect with simple fasteners for easy assembly.
• Items like rain gutters can be custom designed to fill the space between the drip edges of smaller tents to direct water away from the shared space between them.
• Tapers can be attached to one or both ends of gutters to channel water away from the space between two adjoining tents.
• Sectional tents include rain flaps that attach with Velcro.

Expect Blue Skies with Tent Renter’s Supply

When you entrust Tent Renter’s Supply with your event tent needs, you can expect an excellent customer service experience and the highest-quality custom tents available. With outdoor event season around the corner, now is the time to review your inventory and make plans to build the tents you need to meet your customers’ demands. Contact Tent Renter’s Supply today to get started on your weatherproof tents!