As we know, various types of inflatable boats are available in the market. There are boats for diving, fishing, water skiing, and floating ‘island’ boats with shaded areas, kayaks, and many more. Any inflatable boat is exposed to some threats, like damage caused by UV rays, dirt, and excessive heat.
As compared to regular or traditional hardshell boats, inflatable boats require a different kind of maintenance. An inflatable boat can last 20-30 years if provided minimum care. Your boat catches the dirt, which may degrade its materials over time. The material may become weak without proper care, making the boat unsafe. However, simple precautions allow you to maximize the boat’s life and retain its good looks. By following three simple tips, you can ensure that your inflatable boat is in the water-ready shape.
1. Cleaning
For the apt maintenance of your inflatable boat, cleaning is a must. Remove all the dirt, sand, and other debris before you put your boat into its carry sack and forget about it for weeks or months. Cleaning the boat after each use increases its life expectancy. So, rinse your boat and let it dry before storage.
Knowing what type of cleanser should be used is important because some cleaners reduce the boat’s lifespan by weakening its material. You should always pick a mild cleaning product. Wiping your boat with dish soap and a sponge is a good option. Apart from this, you can also opt for some specialized inflatable boat cleaners.
Cleaners containing solvents, acetone, MEK, bleach, ammonia, and alkaline cleaners with a pH of more than 11.5 deteriorate the boat’s material. Oil-based cleansers should also be avoided because, over time, they can damage the rubber or fabric. Moreover, using rough steel pads also damages the boat by putting scratches on it.
2. Storage
Most people go for an inflatable boat because these boats need little space for storage. However, storing a completely deflated boat is not recommended because they are at a higher risk of damage. It is best to keep your boat partially inflated. However, if you are holding a completely deflated boat due to a shortage of space, you must first clean it thoroughly and then dry it completely. Remember, if you fold your boat, it may get damaged over time. Follow the instructions on how to roll your craft, and always keep it in the provided carry bag. Moreover, protect your inflatable boat from sharp objects and keep it away from other stuff that may rub against the boat’s material.
3. Follow the right way to inflate
A common mistake is to over-inflate your boat. A good inflatable boat comes with all the instructions to be followed on how to use it. Ideally, to inflate your boat, fill a little bit of air into each chamber in a clockwise pattern until the ship takes shape, and then fill each room. Besides this, consider the temperature while inflating your boat.
