How to Fix a Hole in Your Raft: A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding Raft Repair Basics

Discovering a hole in your raft can be alarming, but with the right tools and techniques, you can quickly get back on the water. Tenacious Tape is a popular and effective solution for repairing small to medium-sized holes in rafts and other inflatable watercraft. Here’s how to use it effectively:

Step-by-Step Repair Process

Deflate and clean: Let the air out of your raft and thoroughly clean the area around the hole with isopropyl alcohol. This removes any dirt or oils that could prevent the tape from adhering properly.

Measure and cut: Cut a piece of Tenacious Tape or a Tenacious Tape Flex Patch that extends at least 1/4 inch beyond the edges of the hole. For best results, round the corners of your patch.

Apply the patch: Carefully position the patch over the hole, then peel off the backing. Press firmly to ensure good contact with the raft material, working from the center outward to avoid trapping air bubbles.

Allow time to set: For optimal adhesion, let the patch cure for 24 hours before reinflating your raft.

Tips for a Successful Repair

For larger holes, apply patches to both the inside and outside of the raft for extra strength.
In cold conditions, warm the patch with your hands before application to improve adhesion.
Consider using Aquaseal UV for very small pinholes, as it cures quickly in sunlight.

When to Seek Professional Help

While Tenacious Tape is great for many repairs, some situations may require expert attention:

Holes larger than 3 inches in diameter
Damage near seams or valves
Multiple holes or extensive damage

In these cases, consult with a professional raft repair service to ensure your craft’s safety and longevity.