Question:

I notice this morning, the pressure was down on the left side, after inflating the unit, notice paper cut leak (see attached) seem like a cracked. Question is, how do I repair the leak as it's located between two attachments or is it covered under warranty.

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Answer: GiveRepair Instruction

I will send you a kit and include those items – PVC 2 Parts Glue kit, Red fabric material set, Final fix tube. In addition, you can visit our website for their material instruction.

Step 1) You may first use Final Fix to seal the open gap and make sure not leaking, you also choose a small red patch to help the job done. You have to do it when the boat deflated. Clean up the boat surface or remove your previous repairs, make sure the surface dry.

Step 2) Wait 24 hours, you can inflate the chamber to check for any air leaking, otherwise, you may repeat the step 1.

Step 3) You can use the PVC glue to attach a bigger red patch to cover the Step 1 job. Also, the patch should cover the Black Final Fix mark to help your boat looking nice.

Key of repair – Final Fix is the sealant type material that it can seal the fabric well and easy to use. The best if you can watch its YouTube video before start.

Question:

I am looking for a solution to very sticky topsides of our orange 14’ inflatable boat.  We have washed it with gentlesoap and water and got it clean (as the stickiness attracted a lot of dirt) but the stickiness is still there. Is this a “delamination” issue? Is there asolution to this? 

Answer (Copy from internet):

DIY Solutions for Sticky PVC Fabric

Once PVC Fabric has become sticky, cleaning it effectively is crucial to restore its appearance and functionality. Various methods, both DIY and professional, can address this issue.

Baking Soda and Water Method -Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that can help remove sticky residues without damaging the PVC Fabric.

·       Mix a paste of baking soda and water.

·       Apply the paste to the sticky area.

·       Gently scrub with a soft cloth or sponge.

·       Rinse thoroughly with water and dry completely.

Isopropyl Alcohol Method -Isopropyl alcohol can dissolve sticky substances and sanitize the PVC Fabric surface.

·       Dampen a cloth with isopropyl alcohol (preferably 70% or higher concentration).

·       Wipe the sticky area thoroughly.

·       Continue until the stickiness is gone.

·       Allow the PVC Fabric to air dry.

Soap and Water Method -For lighter stickiness, a simple soap and water solution may suffice.

·       Mix mild dish soap with warm water.

·       Soak the sticky PVC Fabric item for a few minutes.

·       Scrub with a soft brush or cloth.

·       Rinse well and dry completely.

Using Specialized Cleaning Products

There are commercial products specifically designed to remove sticky residues from PVC Fabrics. These cleaners often contain solvents that break down the adhesive substances without harming the PVC Fabric.

Recommendations:

·       Look for products labeled safe for use on PVC Fabrics.

·       Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.

·       Test the product on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not cause discoloration or
damage.

Tips for Preventing

Sticky PVC Fabric -Prevention is always better than cure. Implementing measures to protect PVC Fabric items
from becoming sticky can extend their lifespan and maintain their appearance.

·       Keeping PVC Fabric Items Clean and Dry

·       Regular cleaning removes dust and oils that can contribute to surface degradation. Ensuring that PVC Fabric items are thoroughly dried after cleaning prevents moisture-related
stickiness.

Best Practices:

·       Wipe PVC Fabric surfaces after use.

·       Avoid leaving PVC Fabric items in damp or wet environments.

·       Use dry cloths to maintain dryness.

Avoiding Exposure to Heat and Light -Minimizing exposure to extreme temperatures and direct sunlight can slow down the chemical breakdown of PVC Fabrics.

Strategies:

·       Store PVC Fabric items away from heat sources like stoves, ovens, and radiators.

·       Use boat cover or UV-protective films on windows to reduce sunlight exposure.

·       Avoid leaving PVC Fabric items in hot vehicles or other high-temperature environments.


Using Protective Coatings or Covers -Applying protective barriers can shield PVC Fabric surfaces from environmental factors that cause degradation. Options:

·       Use UV-resistant sprays or films to protect against sunlight.

·       Apply silicone or other non-reactive coatings to create a barrier against moisture and pollutants.

·       Utilize protective covers for items like electronics and appliances to minimize direct exposure.

Causes of Sticky PVC Fabric

·       Understanding the root causes of sticky PVC Fabric is essential for effective prevention and treatment. Several factors contribute to the degradation of PVC Fabric surfaces.

·       Chemical Breakdown of PVC Fabric

·       Over time, exposure to environmental elements can cause the polymers in PVC Fabric to break down. This degradation leads to the release of PVC Fabricizers - chemicals added to make PVC Fabric more flexible—which migrate to the surface, creating a sticky residue.

·       Effects of Heat, Light, and Humidity on PVC Fabric

·       Heat: High temperatures accelerate the breakdown of PVC Fabric polymers, increasing the rate at which PVC Fabricizers migrate to the surface.

·       Light: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight can weaken the chemical bonds in PVC Fabric, leading to brittleness and stickiness.

·       Humidity: Moist environments can interact with degraded PVC Fabric, worsening the tackiness and promoting the growth of mold or mildew.

Conclusion -Sticky PVC Fabric is a common but manageable problem that affects various everyday items. By understanding the causes, implementing effective cleaning methods, and adopting preventive measures, you can maintain your PVC Fabric objects in excellent condition. Whether you opt for DIY solutions or seek professional assistance, the key is to act promptly and carefully to restore and preserve the integrity of your PVC Fabric items. Remember to keep your PVC Fabric items clean, avoid excessive exposure to harsh environmental factors, and use protective coatings when necessary. With these strategies, you can extend the lifespan of your PVC Fabrics, ensuring they remain functional and aesthetically pleasing for years to come

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