How to Repair Plastic Kayaks

Plastic kayaks can be repaired in a variety of ways, but the most basic technique involves patching the hull. Applying fiberglass cloth onto the hull, then spreading adhesive over the patch cloth, will help restore the hull’s stiffness. Repeat this process as needed until the hull’s surface is smooth and the repair is secure. It may take several patches to get the desired result. Here are some tips to make your repairs as efficient as possible. inflatable fishing kayaks

First, take a sander and sand the area around the hole. Once this is done, apply epoxy. If the sanding is insufficient, apply silicone to the area. Finally, use a flame-treated patch and glue it into place. Be careful not to burn yourself or your kayak while doing this. A plastic kayak with cracks should never be paddled without professional assistance. If you suspect the crack is too severe to fix, seek help from a professional.

For smaller cracks and tears, you can use a heat gun and heat resistant gloves. Use thick leather or welding gloves to apply heat. When using heat, be careful not to apply too much heat to the cracked area or the weld will weaken. Always use the right amount of heat because too much heat will make the crack even larger. And remember to read river reading. If you’re not confident in your kayak repair skills, consult a professional before starting.

Before beginning the repair process, you should first remove any excess gel from the plastic hull. This will prevent future scratches. If the scratch is deeper, you should try marine-rated gel coat, which will cost you around $30 USD. Apply gel coat in areas where the scratch is deep, and make sure to remove excess gel. Wearing safety gear and using a scraper are important while repairing plastic kayaks. You should never try to repair a cracked kayak without proper safety gear.

If a crack is larger, you can try to repair it with a fiberglass patch. Fiberglass is flexible and can be cured to a tight radius. However, if the crack is large enough, the fiberglass patch should extend several inches beyond the damaged area. If you can’t find the fiberglass patch, you can use a lighter to melt it. Once the new material is applied, apply it to the other side of the hull.

A kayak leak can be a nightmare, and if you’re a few miles from the shore, the situation can turn disastrous. Luckily, a kayak repair kit is a must-have to protect you from the disappointment of an unresponsive boat. Plastic fishing kayaks are not indestructible, and even a small crack can let a surprising amount of water in. A trained paddler can attempt a T-rescue or empty a kayak to inspect the damage before trying to fix it.

If the damage is shallow and not visible, you can try patching the hole yourself. Using a screwdriver or putty knife, scrape off excess plastic. Then, glue or weld the patch into place. A professional repair may be necessary, however, depending on the extent of damage. A shallow scratch can be left as is, while deeper scratches should be routed out to provide a uniform bonding surface for the new plastic filler adhesive.