Winddriven
1529 NW HWY 101
Lincoln City, Oregon, 97367
Not Just A Kite Store, We Are Anything Winddriven! And We've Got Plenty More On The Central Oregon Coast!
Tips For Product Longevity
Anyone who's put anything outside knows it typically has the harshest life: wind buffets spinners and windsocks, sun punishes flags and salty ocean air ravages metal sculptures.
Some people like to just bring in their decorations when the weather turns unsuitable for them, but thats not always easy for everyone. And some people dont want to have to deal with the hassle. It's not easy being lazy, we would know.
But everything you spend hard-earned money on is an investment, no matter what it is, and like any other investment you will likely want to protect it, not only to keep it looking it's best for far longer, but also to save you money in the long-run and keep waste out of landfills! There are some tips and advice on helping keep your various decorations safe and sound throughout the year, no matter the weather!
Basic Stuff To Have And Use:
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Scotchgard, or any other silicone-based weatherproofing spray
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Super Glue; Gorilla glue may be useful for super heavy-duty applications
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A lighter of some kind, preferably one of those long-nose ones with the trigger
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Some basic sewing supplies cant hurt to have lying around, or at least some scissors
Some of this stuff is fairly self-explanatory, but all of it can be useful and it's really all you need to take care of your fabric spinners, windsocks and even kites for many years!
Weatherproofing Sprays On Fabric Things And Windsocks
Most people think wind and rain are the biggest problems Spinners and Windsocks face, but there is just as constant a threat to longevity from the constant sun exposure they no doubt face. Unless they're in a place that is eternally shaded, anyway. Then you'd probably not have to worry.
But most people want their stuff out in the sun, and the sun, as nice as it can be, damages things.
It can depend on the Fabric but we usually recommend weatherproofing sprays. Obviously the most common one is Scotchgard, but any decent silicone-based weatherproofing spray should work fine.
Most people we mention this to only think it protects against rain, but the biggest one is providing a sacrificial barrier against long-term UV damage.
However, it depends on the fabric: ripstop nylon and most other coarse and rigid fabrics should work well with it, but be certain to test it out on a small area first to ascertain it will not discolor. Most wont, but it isn't bad to be certain.
Depending on the weather, fabric and the spray you may need to reapply several times a year.
Sturdy Glues For Fixing And Reinforcement
When I mention any kind of Superglue, most people immediately think of a slightly fancier version of Duct Tape that is overused for fixing just about everything with a slightly better finish. Well there's a reason for that, and thats because yes, it does look much better and is far easier to use on smaller applications. Even ones outside!
Aside from fixing things though, it can also be used to protect certain things. Most notably exposed fabric edges and areas that have begun to fray on spinners.
Using some scissors, cut away any loose or damaged threads from the area and make it tidy, and run a light coating of your preferred superglue over it. Make certain to spread it out evenly. Preferably a glue that is transparent and doesn't harden into a clumpy mess.
This helps solidify stray fibers and threads to keep them from further unraveling. It's not super pretty under up-close scrutinizing, but at least you'll not have to worry quite so much about it becoming more damaged!
Sewing Supplies For Basic Fabric Repair
As most spinners and windsocks are made of ripstop nylon, or at least some other kind of woven fabric, they can thusly be subject to the needle and thread.
If damage other than from normal everyday wear happens, it is usually a simple matter of pulling the sewing kit out and patching it up, be it a torn wing or a hole brought about by an errant sharp object.
Be certain to use a suitably strong thread or patch that can stand up to the riggors you are putting the item through. Maybe also make sure it matches the colors and general look of the surrounding fabric.
I mean, you dont need to, but it would probably look better.