| Even though inflatable boats and rafts are very | | | | inflatable boats. |
| durable, they do still rip, tear, and get punctured | | | | Preparation is sometimes time consuming, but |
| from time to time. However, this does not mean | | | | very worthwhile. That is why it is suggested that |
| that the boat is rendered useless. Minor repairs | | | | the exact work area be marked off with masking |
| can be done by the owner, but larger problems | | | | tape. This helps to keep glue from getting on |
| may need to be fixed by a professional. What | | | | other parts of the boat. |
| exactly would be classified by major and minor | | | | Glue used for patch jobs must be used with a |
| problems? Small punctures and tears less than an | | | | stiff bristled brush that is bound with a metal |
| inch long would be considered minor. These can be | | | | band. A metal or wooden handle is also |
| fixed with a patch job and some patience. | | | | recommended. |
| However, if the rip is larger than an inch or it is | | | | If the spot has been patched before, the old glue |
| within about two inches of a seam, it is highly | | | | needs to be removed completely. This can be |
| recommended that a professional fix this problem. | | | | done with sandpaper or a solvent. |
| Also, any problem that occurs with any of the | | | | These are just a few of many tips related to the |
| accessories such as towing rigs, oar locks, etc. | | | | repair of inflatable boats. As mentioned before, |
| should be taken care of by a trained professional | | | | just because inflatable boats and rafts are |
| as well. When doing quick patch jobs at home, | | | | durable, they are not invulnerable. Tears and holes |
| there are some points to keep in mind. | | | | do occur. However, if there is seam splitting that |
| The temperature and humidity of the workspace | | | | occurs, it may be a defect in the product. Many |
| is vital when attempting to fix an inflatable boat. | | | | manufacturers provide a warranty with their |
| The boat should be brought inside and the | | | | inflatable boats. If that is the case, a seam tear, |
| environment closely monitored for a successful | | | | or other major problem that was not caused by |
| fix. The room should be between 64 and 77 | | | | damage to the boat, may be covered under |
| degrees Fahrenheit and the humidity on the low | | | | warranty. This can lead to the company replacing |
| side; less than 70 percent and preferably closer to | | | | the boat for free or a very small charge. |
| 40 percent. This is vital for the glue used with | | | | |