How to Repair an Aquaseal Wetsuit

Not only is a small hole or tear in a wetsuit a real nuisance, it can increase the risk of coming down with hypothermia on a dive in cold water. Repairing an Aquaseal wetsuit doesn't have to cost you a fortune in professional fees, though. Many rips or tears can be completely sealed for a fraction of the cost a repair shop would charge. A simple tube of waterproof adhesive should help you take care of the job in less than an hour, and your suit will be ready for use again the next day.

Things You'll Need

  • Cleaning solvent (nail polish remover or paint thinner)
  • Paper towels
  • Scissors
  • Fine grit sandpaper
  • Masking tape
  • Aquaseal Repair Adhesive & Sealant
  • Putty knife
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Instructions

    • 1

      Locate the hole or tear and use the solvent and the paper towels to clean off any surface dirt or grime. Clean around the damaged area as well as along the edges of the hole or tear. Just make sure you don't make the damage worse while cleaning. Carefully trim off any frayed fabric with the scissors. Scuff up the area lightly with the sandpaper and wipe it clean again. Skip the scuffing if you are working on a fabric portion of the suit.

    • 2

      Turn the suit inside out and lay it flat on a table with the rip or hole facing up. Cover the area over and around the damage with masking tape. Flip the suit back and pinch open the hole or tear with one hand. Squeeze some of the Aquaseal adhesive into the gap, making sure that an excess adhesive bubble crests over the top. Give the material a moment to dry and flatten the surface. Use the putty knife to smooth out the Aquaseal that oozes out. Pinch the sides of the hole or tear together to promote a tight bond.

    • 3

      Wait five minutes for the sealant to harden. Apply another dab of Aquaseal with the suit lying flat and use the putty knife to smear the adhesive across the rip or tear and around the edges. Use minimal pressure to avoid opening the gap again. Hang the suit up in a dry area and wait at least 14 hours for the sealant to cure. Carefully peel off the masking tape on the inside of the suit once the suit has dried.