How to Repair Scratches on a Kayak
You can carry out repair of your kayak on your own provided the scale of damage is limited to scratches only. If you think there appears to be some cracks then it is not safer to do the work on your own. Instead, get a professional to check your boat as it is risky to use kayak with cracks. It can be fatal sometimes. However, if the damage is just scratches, which can appear on the boat due to kayaking on shall stream beds and rocky waters, you can repair them at your garage or home.
Instructions
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1
Assess Damage
You should be examining your kayak on a regular basis to determine if it has suffered any damage and how much damage has been done. In case of some serious damage you should get it repaired by a professional or otherwise you can cover up small scratches yourself. -
2
Superficial Scratches
You do not have to be worried about small or superficial scratches. They can be left untreated and fine. Or else, you can apply a coat of polish and this will make the superficial scratches disappear. -
3
Deeper Scratches
If you feel the scratches are deeper, you can apply a coat of polyester gelcoat paint. Make sure you choose the colour that matches your kayak colour and for this you can test the paint by applying it on a small part of the boat. Also, read instructions before applying the paint. -
4
Hot Air
You can also make the scratches disappear by blowing hot air on them through your hair drier or hot fan. This technique will not leave a need for paint or anything else to repair scratches. -
5
Torch Flame
You can also use torch flame. Blow them on the scratches and it will make them disappear quickly. You will not need anything else to cover them up. However, this technique is only effective if the kayak is made of polyethylene. -
6
Metal Spoon
Another method is to treat deeper scratches and grooves is heating of metal spoon on them and this will make them disappear. However, it will depend how often you check your boat for scratches and any other damage. Do not leave it for long to examine your boat because sometimes the damage can be serious and permanent. So make sure you regularly examine your kayak, at least after every trip.
