I've spent a lot of time in the woods and throwing Permethrin on the tent might not work as good as you think. Use insect repellent on yourself and conduct tick checks before you enter your tent. Blouse your boots while outside and keep the tent closed up as much as possible. Even if you spray Permethrin on your tent that won't stop you from bringing them in. You just need to do your part. I wouldn't risk damaging the silicone coating by applying Permethrin personally. The tent will keep out the ticks as is. They prefer to hang out in tall grass and be extra cautious between the months of April and September (tick season).