How to Fix a Rubber Kayak Hatch

Nothing is worse than discovering or developing a leak in a kayak when you are out on the water. Some leaks can be permanently fixed even in the outdoors, but a rubber kayak hatch isn't one of them. In fact, there is no real permanent fix for a crack or splint in a hatch. If you are on the water, you can make a quick temporary fix that will solve the problem until you get back home. Once home, you will need to order a new hatch.

Things You'll Need

  • Gorilla tape or
  • Denso tape
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Use a cloth or something on hand to dry off as much of the lid as possible.

    • 2

      Cut strips of Denso tape or other water resistant tape such as Gorilla tape. Make sure the strips are longer than the tear or crack.

    • 3

      Press the tape to the cracked area. Push outward from the center to work out any air pockets in the tape.

    • 4

      Apply enough tape to the outside to cover the entire cracked or split area. Overlap the tape so there are no gaps.

    • 5

      Apply tape to the inside of the hatch cover in the same way. This will add support to the taped area and keep it together until you get out of the water.