How to repair a kayak or canoe
Cracks, splits and small holes in kayaks and canoes can be sealed with Instapatch. It moulds to the curve of the hull and cures hard in daylight.
What you'll need
- Instapatch Standard patches big enough to cover the damage with room to spare. The order wizard will suggest a size.
- UV Curing Primer and a brush. It's optional on smooth surfaces.
- Scissors or a sharp knife
- Gloves and protective clothing
- Surface cleaner or degreaser, and clean cloths
Before you start
- Let the hull dry out completely around the damage.
- Remove any wax, polish or grease. The surface must be free from dust, grease, waxes and loose material.
- Only open the patch when you're ready to use it. It can start to cure within minutes in daylight.
Steps
Clean and degrease the area around the damage, then let it dry.
If you're using primer, brush it on and let it dry fully.
Shape the patch with scissors while it's still in its packet.
Peel the release film from one side, press the patch on straight away, and mould it to the curve of the hull. Apply firm pressure all over.
If you want to paint the repair, peel off the top film now for a matt finish. Leave it on for a gloss finish that can't be painted.
Leave the patch to cure in daylight. Keep pressing the edges down until it hardens, so the corners don't lift.
Cure timing for this surface
Daylight cures the patch in 15 to 45 minutes, depending on how bright it is. In a garage, use a UV lamp or torch.
After the repair
Once it has hardened, the patch is waterproof and highly resistant to weather and UV. You can sand it and paint it. Check the repair before you go back on the water.
Common questions
Instapatch Standard works on plastic surfaces, and primer is optional on smooth ones.
Once the patch has fully hardened. In good daylight, that's 15 to 45 minutes.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Patching a hull that's still damp
- Leaving wax or grease on the surface
- Going out on the water before the patch has hardened
Safety
Wear gloves and protective clothing, and only use Instapatch in a well-ventilated area. It contains polyester compound and styrene, which can irritate the eyes, skin and lungs. If it gets in your eyes, rinse them straight away with plenty of water and get medical advice. If it gets on your skin, wash it off with soap and water.
Storing spare patches
Keep unused patches on end in their original wrapping, somewhere cool, dry, dark and frost free. If a patch is very cold, warm it before use.