In this article we discuss the best way to patch an inflatable paddle board. Use these simple steps to patch your board and get back on the water as soon as possible!
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Atoll boards are built to last. They’re built for adventure. To conquer rivers, lakes, and oceans. They’re built to withstand encounters with rocks, sticks, fallen trees, even shells and sand. And they’re built to be the only iSUP you will ever need.
But even with our solid construction and years of testing to create the most durable inflatable paddle board on the market, accidents can still happen.
You can still get the occasional scuff, slight tear, or hole. That is why we also include a patch kit in every purchase. So you can repair the tear and keep adventuring on.
Sometimes though, we get questions on how to repair the boards. And we want to make sure you know exactly what to do in case this rare occurrence should happen. Especially if you are in an isolated camping spot adventuring in the mountains.
Below you will find a checklist to walk you through the steps of repairing your board – no matter where you are.
Disclaimer:
If your tear is big and the damage is extensive, reach out to us first before you attempt to repair anything yourself. We might be able to recommend a professional in your area that would be able to fix it. Or give you advice on the best way to proceed.
The Steps on How to Patch an Inflatable Paddle Board
1. If you are having trouble locating the area that is leaking, fill a spray bottle with soapy water and spray it along the area you suspect is the problem. Once on the leak, the soap from the water will bubble. And you will be able to locate the spot to plug. Bonus – the soap helps to clean the area before applying glue as well!
2. Once located, clean the area until it is dry and mark it with a pen/marker if it is too small to see. This will help you keep the correct location for the patch.
3. After it’s marked, deflate the board.
4. Once deflated, grab some rubbing alcohol or acetone and clean the area completely. This stronger substance will remove any oils or other debris to allow the glue to completely stick to the patch and board.
5. Place the patch over the center of the leak and outline it with a pencil. This will help you remember where the patch goes and give you an idea of how much glue to use.
6. Apply a thin layer of adhesive over the board where you just drew the outline. Be careful not to go over the designated area.
Side Note: A great adhesive to pick up and use is Stabond Adhesive. It adheres to vinyl and will remain waterproof long after it dries. Just be sure to follow the directions on its use.
7. Apply the adhesive on the matte side or the bottom side of the patch. If you apply to the shiny side it may not stick as well as it would on the rough, matte side.
8. Place the patch over the hole and work any air bubbles out of the spot by using a spoon, roller, or any other tool that might work to rub across the surface of the board.
9. Clean any excess adhesive off and apply masking tape over the top to make sure the patch stays flat and doesn’t shift while it is drying.
10. Allow the glue to dry for at least 24 hrs.
11. After at least 24hrs, remove the masking tape and feel around the edges of your patch. Make sure it is glued and in place.
12. Inflate it to full capacity and check to see if your patch job worked. If it did – adventure on!
Conclusion
We hope this sheds some light on the process of patching your board. But as we already stated, and it’s good to reiterate, always contact a professional in your area (local SUP shop or outfitter) to get advice on how to proceed before attempting anything yourself. Or send us an email at any time! We’re always ready to help our Atoll Family with whatever you should need.
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6 Responses
Hello Wiley,
I have to patch up one of my boards. Actually the new one you sent me. Do you sell patch kits? Or do you recommend a certain patch kit if not?
Thank you!
Madeleine
Hi Madeleine! There should have been a patch-kit included with your board. The only missing thing is likely the glue as we cannot ship it. We recommend Stabond as mentioned in the article. If you’d like personal assistance, please call us at 8 7 7 . 6 9 8 . 8 5 8 1 during business hours. We’ll gladly walk you through the process and offer any advice.
The small hole needing patched is on the side of the board, on the T (as in Atoll)
There is a seam above and below the T and the patch as it is will cover each seam. Do you recommend that that patch be sized so to be within the seams or use the patch as is.
Thanks in advance
Hi! We would recommend to size the patch. Whenever it comes to gluing a patch you always want it to be as flush as possible to the board. By gluing over the seams it will create space in the patch that may cause it to come undone in the future. However, the best thing to do is to send us a message to customerservice@atollboards.com with a picture of what needs to be patched. By having our expert team look at it first hand, we’ll be able to give you the best advice possible.
Hello,
My Atoll 11′ Army Green Inflatable Stand-up Paddle Board came apart at the seam near the front of the craft. The opening along the seam is approximately 10 to 15 inches. This seems to be a manufacturing defect. Please advise.
Hi Terry – can you send us a message with a picture to customerservice@atollboards.com? We’ll take a look at it.