How To Fix Scratches on a Kayak

The vast majority of kayaks sold are made of plastic, and because of this they are prone to scratches. Repairing scratches on kayaks is a simple task that can often be handled by a kayak owner, with no need to go to a specialist shop. Check your kayak to see if some scratch repair is necessary.

Things You'll Need

  • Protective gloves
  • Safety glasses
  • Propane torch
  • Metal spoon
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Instructions

    • 1

      Inspect the scratches on your kayak. Superficial scratches are unavoidable and do not need to be treated. It the scratch penetrates the kayak, that will require patching.

    • 2

      Put on your protective gloves and safety glasses.

    • 3

      Light your propane torch.

    • 4

      Pass the tip of the flame over the shallowest scratches. Be very careful with the flame, and do not allow the heat to distort your kayak. This should make the shallowest scratches disappear.

    • 5

      Heat the tip of a metal spoon with your propane torch.

    • 6

      Use the hot tip of the metal spoon to melt the two edges of a scratch together. Work slowly and carefully to make sure that you do not deform the plastic of your kayak. It is always better to use too little heat at first than too much heat.

    • 7

      Allow your kayak to cool.