FAQ Friday #55 - What leaks will SealSkin fix successfully?

SealSkin is great for fixing tiny leaks and porous fabric on inflatables made of PVC, PU and hypalon. It will seal up small leaks, meaning you can avoid glue and patches, and if a repair is in a really tricky place this really can be useful! It's poured into the deflated tube through the valve, the inflatable inflated and then shaken about (or if it's a RIB/larger SIB you have a trailer ride will do the job!). Ideal practice is to shake the inflatable about and refresh the air in it a short while later too, although this isn't always necessary.

Personally, I like to try and find where the leaks are before using SealSkin as this helps to ensure I direct the SealSkin, which is poured in through the valve, to the right area. To do this, I mix up a really soapy solution and brush the mixture over suspect areas. I tend to start by testing the seams and obvious areas of wear, and if I find nothing I'll test the whole tube. 

This particular inflatable seemed to hold air short term, but was rather soft when left for a few days. And this is what my soapy water testing showed up:

...Lots of teeny tiny leaks near on the welded seam, which produced cuckoo spit like bubbles.

I marked up any leaks I found using tape and then set about using SealSkin. Marking up the leaks meant I could check back and retest these areas to check they were no longer leaking. 

And I'm pleased to report this inflatable is now holding it's pressure as it should!

If your boat tube seems to gradually deflate or go a bit soft and you've tested the valves, I would recommend SealSkin - especially if you've found micro leaks like I have!