Rubber Boat Maintenance: Top Ten Skills To Maintain The Best Condition Of Rubber Boats

Inflatable rubber boats are the most popular means of transportation for long-distance sailors - they are quite easy to maintain and can be deflated or simply stored on deck during long-distance travel. However, even though they are easier to maintain than fiberglass boats, they still need care to keep them in their best condition for as long as possible. Here are the top 10 tips for keeping your kayak in top condition:

1. UV protection

Frequently used boats will suffer a lot of sun exposure. Either buy a high polyamide fiber boat that can withstand the damage of ultraviolet light, or you need to make a canvas cover for the PVC boat. Depending on where and when you sail, storing small boats away from light can prolong their life. However, make sure the boat is not too cold - the material will be degraded near the freezing point or the freezing temperature.

2. Keep it inflated as much as possible

Placing an inflatable rubber boat in a deflated state will accelerate the separation, friction and damage of the joint. It should be inflated to the pressure recommended by the manufacturer. Moreover, as time goes by, many rubber boats will leak. It should be checked and inflated regularly.

3. "Old carpet" technique

If you want to stop at the old wharf, seawall or mooring pile where barnacles are haunted, carry an old carpet on the boat to protect your rubber boat. Just hang the carpet over the pipe on the shore before you stop.

4. Cleaning

If possible, clean your boat with fresh water, and when you finish using it, remove the stuck sand and salt. Even wiping with a wet cloth will work. If you must use soap, use a mild dish soap.

5. Avoid using cleaning agents

Do not use multi-functional cleaners, brighteners, or any other commercial products on your inflatable rubber boat. Just clean it with clean fresh water.

6. Correct inflation procedure

When inflating your raft or boat, fill each chamber clockwise along the boat until it forms. Each chamber is then filled in the opposite direction of the vessel to the pressure level indicated by the particular vessel. Do not over inflate - when finished, there should be only a small amount of "space" left for thumb pressure.

7. Hot air expansion

You should know that air will expand with heat and contract with cold. If you inflate the boat in cool air, and then experience a significant rise in temperature, please test your boat again with your thumb and release some air until the normal amount of thumb pressing on the "space" is restored.

8. Beware of sharp objects

Rubber boats do not like sharp objects or repeated friction in the same area. Be careful with knives or fishhooks, and anything that cuts through the surface. When the boat comes ashore, avoid towing the boat on rocks or shells, and if you want to get close to any barnacle infested wharf, bring a carpet for standby.

9. Friction

Friction is also a source of trouble for rubber boats. Regularly check the possible friction points on the surface of the rubber boat. This may be caused by repeated use of the paddle rope at the same location, or even the cooler.

10. When the hull is punctured

Even if the intention is good, sometimes the hull will be punctured or leaked. Apply soapy water and observe the bubbles formed to find the leakage point. Always carry a repair kit with you so that you don't have to drag the boat behind you to swim home - if you can swim far enough. It may be difficult to make a patch strong enough, so follow the instructions very carefully.