How to Patch an Inflatable: A Quick Guide

 

Does your pool float look more like a sad puddle? That’s because your inflatable suddenly sunk to the bottom of the pool? Don't despair! A deflated inflatable can quickly deflate your fun, but before you toss it out, there's a quick and easy solution: patching!

 

You can have your inflatable back in operation with simple steps and the proper equipment. ABOVE knows how hard it can be to enjoy without the inflatables. So, we have prepared a quick guide on how to patch a pool float. 

What You’ll Need to Patch An Inflatable

Fixing an inflatable takes a few essential tools and materials to ensure it is done well. Here's what you need to address your query regarding how to patch an inflatable.

Pool Float Patch Kit

This kit usually contains vinyl patches and adhesives made for inflatable repairs. This pool float patch is tough and stretchy. Therefore, they are suitable for sealing holes and tears.

Rubbing Alcohol

This is for cleaning the area around the damaged spot before applying the patch. It aids in the removal of dirt, oils, and residues that could be a hindrance to the adhesion of the adhesive.

Sandpaper or Scuffing Pad

These instruments are employed to roughen the surface of the inflatable around the damaged region. The top priority should be creating a rough surface where the adhesion will be improved. Consequently, the outcome will be a more robust and lasting seal.

A Heat Gun (or Hair Dryer)

In a few situations, a heat gun or hair dryer can slightly warm up the vinyl material before applying the patch. This heat can be the factor that boosts the adhesive's performance and guarantees a strong bond.

Finding The Leak In An Inflatable

The first thing you must do before you can patch an inflatable is find the leak. Here are two effective methods for finding leaks in your inflatable:

Visual Inspection

Blow the inflatable and then check the surface by sight. Look for any hole, tear, or place where the material may be damaged. Oversee the seams and valve areas because leaks usually happen in these places.

Soapy Water Solution

Combine a little liquid dish soap or detergent with water in a spray bottle or container.

Inflate the inflatable and spray or apply the soapy water solution generously over the surface. Then, examine the surface of the inflatable closely. The soapy water will bubble or foam at the spot where the leak is located as the air exits. Also, concentrate on one area until you find the leaking source.

After you find a leak, mark the leak area with a marker or tape so that you can quickly locate it again when applying the patch.

How To Patch An Inflatable

Stop worrying about how to patch an inflatable and follow the steps below. 

Preparing the Area

The area around the leak on the inflatable should be clean and dry to avoid any injury or further damage. Moisture or dirt is not suitable for the adhesive's capacity to bond correctly. The area around the leak should be rubbed with a clean cloth until it is dirt-free, and rubbing alcohol should be used to dab the area until it is clean.

This will erase all the pollutants on the surface and create a clean surface for the patch to stick to. To improve the bonding, lightly sand the area around the leak with sandpaper or a scuffing pad.

Applying the Patch

Follow the instructions given with your patch kit because different kits may use other types of adhesive with varying drying times. When using glue, apply some adhesive to the patch and the cleaned surface around the leak. 

Follow the instructions of the kit to make the adhesive tacky. In certain situations, you may utilize a heat gun or hair dryer to slightly warm the area to activate the adhesive and improve bonding. Step by step, position the patch over the leak, then press firmly from the center outward to remove any air bubbles and ensure a secure bond.

Let The Patch Dry

Once the patch is applied, waiting for it to dry thoroughly before pumping air back into the inflatable is essential. Patch kits usually suggest a curing time of about 24 hours. Ensure that the repaired area is not disturbed during this period to allow the adhesive to settle down properly.

Testing the Patch

After the curing time has passed, deflate the inflatable and check the patched spot for leaks. Repeat the soapy water solution process by spraying or applying it over the patched region. Look for any bubbles that could be a sign of air leaking out. The patching succeeded if you don't see any bubbles, and the inflatable retains its air without apparent leaks.

Follow these steps for pool float repair if your pool floats like Sunset Chaser or Beach Patrol or inflatables are damaged. You will deal with the leaks in your inflatable, which will be usable and safe in the future. The instructions provided with the patch kit should be referred to for the best results. 

How to Patch Your Inflatable with Our In-Box Patches

ABOVE's pool tubes come equipped with convenient patches in the box, making repairing any unexpected punctures or tears simple. These patches are designed to seamlessly blend with your inflatable, ensuring a reliable fix without compromising its integrity. 

Whether it's a small leak or a larger tear, with our patches, you can quickly get back to enjoying the water without any worries.

How To Patch A Pool Tube Without A Patch Kit

If you cannot buy a patch kit to fix a pool tube, you can use the materials you have at home to patch the tube. Begin with filling the pool tube and detecting the leak. After locating the leak, deflate the tube and clean the vicinity of the leak with rubbing alcohol or acetone so that the adhesion is good.

Optionally, sandpaper or an abrasive sponge can lightly scuff the surface around the leak. Use the vinyl adhesive generously on the cleaned and prepared area and extend a little more than the size of the patch material you will use. Cut a piece of vinyl or duct tape slightly more significant than the leak and apply it firmly over the adhesive-covered area to ensure no air bubbles are trapped underneath. 

Let the adhesive cure fully, per the manufacturer's instructions, for several hours or overnight. After the treatment, reinflate the pool tube and examine the leaks around the patched area. Though this method can be a solution, getting a proper patch kit for a more permanent and long-lasting repair is still essential.

DIY Tips To Patch an Inflatable 

An inflatable can be repaired effectively using DIY methods and readily available materials. Here are a few DIYs to patch an inflatable without a pool float repair kit:

• Patch Using a Vinyl Repair Kit
• Use Household Materials such as rubber 
• Use a heat gun or hot air welder to heat the damaged area carefully.
• Allow the area to cool and set before testing the repair.
• Patch with Bicycle Tube Patch Kit: Cut a patch from a bicycle tube patch kit slightly larger than the hole.

Conclusion

Repairing a pumped-up thing is a simple process that can help you cut down on costs and, thus, extend the life of your favorite pumped-up items. Always remember that regular maintenance and repairs done on time are the basic needs to keep your inflatables in good shape. 

Searching for pool floats with in box patches of superior quality that are not easily broken and last for a long time? Look at ABOVE’s range of pool floats, which are of the best quality and most reliable. This summer, shop now and enjoy the endless fun in the sun with our premium inflatables.

FAQs

1. Can You Sew A Hole In Inflatable?

Why not? You can repair a puncture in an inflatable, but applying the right tools and methods is necessary. If the holes or tears are small and the inflatable is made of strong materials like vinyl or PVC, you can use a strong needle and thread specifically designed for heavy-duty sewing.

2. How To Fix A Leak In An Inflatable Toy?

When you find the leak, put a marker or tape at the spot to show it. Inflate the toy to the least possible level, clean the area around the gap with soap and water, and dry it thoroughly. You can use a vinyl patch or repair kit with the sticky adhesive.

3. How Do You Patch An Inflatable Vinyl?

Cleanse the region adjacent to the damage with soap and water, then dry it thoroughly. Use a vinyl patch kit that usually contains a patch and a vinyl adhesive. Cut the patch to a size that is bigger than the damaged part. The adhesive should be applied to the patch and the surrounding space of the hole. Push the patch hard onto the damaged area and keep it for a few minutes to strengthen the bond.