How to Fix a Hole in a Raft

If you're riding huge swells in the North Atlantic and your life raft calls it a day, you don't need this book, you need a Hollywood miracle. But if you discover a small leak in your inflatable rubber raft while on summer vacation, don't worry. It's easy to fix.

Things You'll Need

  • Raft-repair Glue
  • Small Paintbrush
  • Scissors
  • Felt-tip Pen
  • Patch Material
  • 100-grit Sandpaper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Locate all the holes by inflating the raft and listening for leaks. Mark the holes with a felt-tip pen.

    • 2

      Using scissors, cut a piece of patch material so that it extends about 3 inches (7.5 cm) beyond the hole. If there's more than one hole, cut an appropriate-size patch for each one.

    • 3

      Using 100-grit sandpaper, rough up the patches and the area around each hole. This is essential for a strong bond.

    • 4

      Apply a very thin layer of raft-repair glue onto each patch and each hole area with a small paintbrush. Cutting the paintbrush bristles in half makes it easier to apply and spread a thin layer of glue. Let the glue dry completely. A thin glue layer is very important; a thick layer won't create a strong bond.

    • 5

      Apply a second thin coat. Wait 10 minutes, then apply the patch to the hole area.

    • 6

      Let the glue dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.