Inflatable Boat Repair – Common Issues and Solutions
Inflatable boats are a very popular way for people to get out on the water for fishing, traveling, or just relaxing in the breeze. However, with these boats comes the most dreaded of concerns - the leak. For many who have boated with inflatable boats, this has been an all too common reality, being out on the water when an unexpected incident results in the inflatable boat springing a leak. Thankfully, there are some simple inflatable boat repair tips that can be utilized in case of a similar situation so you as a boater don't end up all wet.
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The biggest problem with an inflatable boat is the threat of a leak, usually due to a pressure point applied within the boat or a collision with a rogue piece of debris floating in the water. In these cases, the leak may be a smaller puncture and easily dealt with. To combat these, the main option available is a quick patch method. Keeping an inflatable boat repair kit with you while boating is a good practice. If the puncture is inside or on the exposed side of the boat, apply the patch with a securing compound, and then get to shore for further repair.
Another common problem with inflatable boats is tearing along the seams. Seams can rupture, preventing the boat from retaining air completely. Again, a simple method of inflatable boat repair using a patching compound and a patch is the best bet, as the patch can create a second seal along the seam and provide an interim repair for the boat. However, if the seam is torn too much, the boat may be beyond immediate repair. In that case, more extreme resealing of the seam may be necessary.
A third common problem with inflatable boats is the loss of buoyancy over time. As time passes, and the boat's structure is worn down, the boat may not float as well or may begin to leak air slowly. In these cases, the best method of repairing the boat is to refresh the hull material. Various methods are prescribed in this case, but the typical method is to add a sealing compound similar to a tire patching compound to the inside of the boat.
As this is sprayed inside, it reinforces the inside of the boat, providing additional structural support, and sealing off slow leaks to prevent leakage. This sealant spreads around the inside of the boat, creating a second structural layer around the rubber or plastic of the boat, creating additional sealing of the boat combined with adding some buoyancy to the boat, making it an ideal inflatable boat repair for older boats.
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