Are sil tarps really that good?

“My 15 year old coated nylon tarp now leaks so I'm planning to replace it. My first choice would be a Campmor sil tarp and I've read many positive things about it such as compact, lightweight etc. Do any users have any negative comments about it other than cost that would sway me toward a standard coated nylon tarp? Can the sil tarp withstand Northeastern U.S. thunderstorms with rain coming down in sheets? Is it well made with strong tie outs and grommets? Do you think the silicone treatment will last over time to make the investment a worthy one? Any field testers out there with some input on these tarps?”

“I've been in some pretty heavy duty downpours/high winds with mine. I have the 5x8 and use it more as a vestibule for my microswift tent. It is extremely light weight, packs to almost nothing, and seems very sturdy. No complaints after a year of testing. I'd buy another in a heartbeat.”

“Yes, yes they are.”

“Cause they're made outta real seals! Right?”

“I like mine.”

“I made a lean-to tarp out of the same material as the sil tarps. I set it up in my back yard and left it there all winter the only problem it had was when we got 6 inches of snow: that collapsed the tarp but did not tear it. We did have some days of winds 50 to 60 mph but it was place in a semi sheltered spot. I have since used it about 30 nights of camping and it is holding up well. The nicest thing about it is its weight 28 oz and it can hold three people or two and gear. or one very large dog. Campmor will stand behind its products if anything is wrong with it. So go ahead and try one.”

“Thanks to everyone that responded and it's sounds like the sil tarp is the way to go. I'll be ordering mine soon.”

“Just purchased a sil tarp from Campmor, and was surprised that it does not come with factory sealed seams. This was confirmed by Campmor. You would think that for the high price that it would be ready to use.”

“I heard that since only silicone sealer will stick to sil nylon that's all you can use to seal the seams. I decided not to get the Campmor tarp and to get the Owareusa.com tarp. It costs a bit more, but I like the fact that it has more tie out points and instead of grommets uses fabric reinforced webbing. It looks really nice.”