Can you repair your own inflatable?

The simple answer is yes. The longer answer is of course, it all depends…

For a simple repair to a PVC or Hypalon RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat), inflatable boat and SIB (Soft Inflatable Boat) tubes there are a range of kits you can buy.

Here are some useful guidelines:

Plan Your Repair

You’ll be using some products with strong chemicals so keep pets and children away and read the product labels carefully. Solvents and adhesives are known to produce fumes which must not be inhaled or exposed to skin, eyes or ingested plus the fumes are known to be highly flammable. If you are happy with the safety elements then you can start planning where you are going to do the work. There is a standard list of the best conditions:

• Lower than 60% humidity.
• Between 18ºC -25ºC.
• Dry. well-ventilated area that is away from glaring sunshine.
• Nowhere near to any naked flames.

Find Your Boat Manual

Before entering any chandlers you need to know what fabric your inflatable tube is made from because this will decide the type of adhesive, solvent and patch fabric you need. The most common fabrics used are Hypalon, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and PU (polyurethane).

To identify the fabric:

• Have a look at your boat manual or have a look on the web and you will probably easily find the answer.
• Look at the back of the tube fabric (through the inflation valve or where the tear is). Hypalon is a dull, dark grey or black whereas PVC and PU is the same colour on both sides. Although be careful with this technique if your boat has had UV damage.
• Use a piece of sandpaper to rub the fabric in an inconspicuous area. If it is hypalon the fabric will go dull and produce some dust whereas PVC or PU will scratch but stay glossy.

If none of the above confirms the fabric then apply a small amount of MEK (also known as Butanone). If the fabric is PVC then the material will feel tacky, if it’s Hypalon it will just go dull, but it won’t feel tacky.

Collect Your Boat Repair Kit Together

The boating industry informally seems to divide tube repairs into small tears which can be repaired with a single patch to the outside of the tube and larger tears (over 5 cm) which will need to be patched from both from the inside and outside of the tube.

• Reommended glue from your yacht chandlers.
• The correct fabric patch.
• Polythene for the inner patch (if required).
• Solvent/primer.
• Sandpaper.
• Mixing stick. e.g. lollipop stick.
• Lint-free cloth.
• Small, stiff paint or glue brush.
• Pencil.
• Masking tape.
• Something to remove air bubbles (e.g. handle of a hammer).
• A heavy weight to hold the patch down whilst it is drying.

You’re Ready to Go….

1. Find where the leak is on the tube. If it’s not obvious then put soapy water on the inflated tube and find the leak by seeing where the bubbles are. Then simply mark the location, dry the area and deflate the tube
2. Cut out a fabric patch and round the corners. You will need a minimum of 5 cm in excess of the tear.
3. Place the patch over the hole and mark around the patch on the tube with a pencil. If the tear is greater than 5cm then also cut out a matching piece of polythene.
4. For Hypalon patches rub the back of the patch and the marked repair area with abrasive paper so there is a key for the adhesive. Make sure it is just a light rubbing over. Do NOT rub down PVC fabric.
5. Clean the back of the patch and the repair area with a lint-free cloth and MEK solvent or acetone. The solvent must evaporate before continuing.
6. Put masking tape around the repair area so any adhesive can be lifted from around the repair site. Allow a small margin for stretch for when the patch is applied.
7. Prepare the adhesive as per the adhesive instructions. For tears over 5 cm then apply adhesive to the back of one of the patches and to the inner tube surface around the repair area. Leave it to dry for around 20 minutes and then apply a second coat and leave it to dry for just a few minutes. Put the polythene on the adhesive so that the patch can be rolled up with the glue sticking to itself.
8. Put the rolled-up patch into the tube through the tear in the tube and unroll. Position over the tear and peel away the polythene to allow the glued areas to bond. Smooth the patch working from the centre of the patch outwards to smooth out any air bubbles.
9. Using the brush applicator apply a thin coat of adhesive to the tube patch and the masked repair area. Leave to dry for at least 20 minutes and then apply a second coat leaving it to dry for a few minutes until tacky. Apply the patch carefully to the repair area.
10. Firmly smooth down the patch to ensure no air bubbles.
11. Carefully remove the masking tape and clean-off any excess adhesive with the MEK solvent. If you don’t remove it the glue will show as a nasty brown.
12. Place a smooth sided heavy weight on the patch and leave for 24 hours before re-inflating the tubes. Always check the repair before re-launching the boat!

If you’re concerned about repairing your inflatable then come and talk to us. We’re happy to give advice or you can leave your inflatable with us and we can do the repair for you.

News and Updated

Twitter : https://twitter.com/NYS_StonesBYard

Pinterest : https://www.pinterest.com/nanaimoboatyard/

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/StonesboatyardLtd

Top Tips for How to Clean a Boat

Part of owning a boat is maintaining it and something that costs very little, but can make a real difference to how much you enjoy using the boat and the resale value, is keeping the boat clean. If you have a willing crew, cleaning your boat can be a fun way of getting everyone involved. Cleaning the boat on your own may not feel quite the same!

Here are our top tips for keeping your boat ship shape!

1. Start with the outside  – we say start with the outside just because all too often we clean the interior whilst we are using the boat and somehow the exterior cleaning doesn’t happen. Perhaps it’s because it feels like a bigger job? Invest, borrow or hire a pressure washer and get cleaning. Start with going over the whole of the exterior with a quick sweep and then use a boat brush with a suitable wash mixture for boats.  Come and talk to us at our chandlery for supplies.
2. Use the right chemicals – use the right chemicals and cleaning gets a lot easier. You will soon know if you are using the wrong wash mixture because there will be unsightly residues left behind and the boat will be difficult to clean.
3. Don’t forget to wax – washing your boat takes the wax off, so you need to put the wax back on otherwise you’ll find your paint will discolour and crack. This can be a long task and so many people us a boat cleaning service for this. If you have a fiberglass gel coat then there is a different process for cleaning.
4. Non-slip Fiberglass – you can’t wax non-slip fiberglass because then it will make it slippery!  Start cleaning with soap, water and a stiff bristle brush. The toughest stains can be treated with specialist cleaners, but use sparingly because any bleach in these products can do damage to the fibreglass surface. Once clean you can then apply a treatment like Star Brite Non-Skid Deck Wax which actually isn’t a wax but a product with polymers that help shine and protect without being slippery.
5. Canvas – regular gentle cleaning with a mild soap will keep your canvas looking good. Typically every couple of years canvas needs to be scrubbed with a soap and baking soda mix or if the canvas is small enough it can be put in a washing machine on a warm was with soap and baking soda. There are different types of clear canvas and it’s worth reading up on the manufacturer instructions. Normally a wash with a gentle soap and a non-abrasive sponge or cloth followed by careful drying will keep clear canvas looking good.
6. Teak – a quick scrub with soapy water gets the worst of the salt water off, but in the long term all teak will blacken. To clean the teak you will need to use an acid-based teak cleaner. There are different strength cleaners and it’s important to carefully follow the instructions. When cleaning, always remove the teak from the boat so that the cleaning chemicals do not go onto any other part of the boat.
7. Wood areas inside – wood looks beautiful on a boat but it comes at a cleaning and maintenance price. Talk to our chandlery about hardwood cleaners, polish and spray wax for the interior. The standard process is mopping, drying and polishing. If it’s a big area then you may want to rent a buffer to complete the job.
8. Soft furnishings – regular, gentle cleaning will keep you on top of the cleaning. Ideally, rent a steam cleaner and then once clean apply a sealant over the carpet or upholstery which should help protect from mold and the acrid smell of the sea. To clean the foam in cushions sprinkle both sides of the cushion with baking soda and leave for a few hours. Then shake off the soda and mist with a 50/50 mix of vinegar and water. Then just leave the cushions in a well-ventilated area for a few days for the vinegar smell to dispense. Finally soak the foam in water, squeeze out and repeat until all the dirt has come out.
9. Vinyl furnishing – not as luxurious as soft furnishings but popular because it is so easy to clean and maintain, as long as you don’t let the vinyl become covered in mold. You can use a domestic cleaner that you would use at home and then apply a vinyl protectant. From an environmental perspective try and avoid using bleach.
10. Heads – heads can be cleaned like you would at home. The only difference is cleaning the lines where calcium deposits can collect. To avoid this simply flush through a few cups of white vinegar.

If cleaning your boat is something you dread rather than enjoy then let us clean your boat for you!

News and Updated

Twitter : https://twitter.com/NYS_StonesBYard
Pinterest : https://www.pinterest.com/nanaimoboatyard/
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/StonesboatyardLtd/

Outboard Engine Care

The weather is just right, it’s the start of the season, everyone is keen to get out on the water and then once you’ve loaded up your tender you find out the outboard won’t start. Time to get out the oars and rowlocks or do you give up and go home?  Outboard Engine Care is just another area where a bit of planning makes all the difference.

Outboard Engine Care are fairly simple and even if you’re not a mechanic some day to day maintenance can go a long way to keeping your outboard engine in a reliable condition. 

At the end of each trip or vacation:

1. Flush (clean) out the engine:
   • Outboard Engines with a flushing port:
     • Remove the cap from the flushing port and attach your garden hose (if the boat is in the water tilt the engine up so the saltwater drains out.
     • Turn on the water and let it run for at least 5 minutes. Do not start the engine.
     • Remove the hose and put the cap on.
   • Outboard Engines without a flushing port:
     • Attach a pair of earmuffs to the hose and slide over the water outflow.
     • Turn on the water, start the engine and let the engine run for 5 minutes. Make sure water is coming out of the outflow tube.
     • Turn the engine off, turn off the water and remove the earmuffs from the hose.
2. Whilst flushing the engine have a look at the water pump. You want to see it has a strong flow of water. If there is a weak flow of water then check to see if there is anything stuck in the outflow tube.  Turn the engine off and then use a loop of wire to go round the outflow tube to clear anything. If you start the engine again and find the water flow is still weak then you may need a new water pump. Whilst the engine is running also check the heat of the water; the water should be warm but not hot. If the water is hot then the engine needs to be looked at by an experienced mechanic.
3. Burn off all the dirty fuel in the carburettor. Disconnect the fuel line and then allow the engine to run for a few minutes.
4. Check for leaks. Once you have flushed the engine and run the engine out of fuel disconnect the battery, take the engine cowling off and check for fuel or water leaks. If there are any leaks it probably time to call in a mechanic.
5. Protect the engine. Whilst you have the cowling off wipe the engine with water and then spray with an anti-corrosive (e.g. WD40).
6. Cover up. Once work is completed put the cowling back on and keep a canvas or plastic cover on the engine.

Other areas to maintain:

It’s always a good to look over your outboard for anything that looks unusual and may require attention.  Typical areas where outboards need maintenance are:

1. The fuel line. Any cracks or worn areas?
2. The fuel primer bulb. Any cracks, soft and pliable to use?
3. Fuel tanks. Any damage or corrosion?
4. Tank vent. Vent is clear and not damaged?

At Nanaimo Boatyard we provide routine servicing, repairs and installations. We work with all types of recreational engines using original manufacturer parts.  Contact us via our website, or pop in and see us.

News and Updated

Twitter : https://twitter.com/NYS_StonesBYard
Pinterest : https://www.pinterest.com/nanaimoboatyard/
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/StonesboatyardLtd/

Guide to Boating During the Covid-19 Crisis

Boating safety is always—always—a critical consideration whenever you push off the dock, but with all the recent issues regarding COVID-19, many people are wondering if boating is considered a safe social distancing practice. For safety please see on below for Guide to Boating During the Covid-19 Crisis.

MAINTAIN THE All IMPORTANT SOCIAL DISTANCE

Stay at least two metres from others. (No joining up boats together, no dock parties.)

KEEP YOUR BOAT IN GREAT CONDITION

Before leaving the dock it’s even more important than in normal times to ensure your boat is in good order. If you need emergency services save it for an emergency that could not be avoided.

Before you leave the dock ensure you have everything you need for your journey to reduce the number of times you need to stop for supplies. As with all shopping for supplies it is best to pay online or over the phone.

RESPECT LOCAL PEOPLE

Double check the local  covid safety rules before you moor up or go ashore. Of course, ideally you simply stay on your boat.  It’s all about the continual challenge of financially supporting the local community whilst keeping everyone covid safe.

DON’T CROSS THE BORDER!

The Canada-US border is currently closed to non-essential traffic.

Come and talk to us or check our servicing, repairs and installations.

News and Updated

Twitter : https://twitter.com/NYS_StonesBYard

Pinterest : https://www.pinterest.com/nanaimoboatyard/

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/StonesboatyardLtd/

Boat Maintenance Tips 2

I’m writing this in the summer so all these maintenance tips are selected for fair weather conditions.

Varnishing

Longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures mean more time in the day to varnish and for it to dry before the temperature drops.

Running Rigging Checks

Running rigging refers to all the equipment (ropes etc.) involved in raising, lowering and controlling the sails. By the middle of the summer, you’ll know what is working and what needs some attention. Check through your rigging for any failing splices, sheaves are running smoothly and any other adjustments that could be made to reduce friction and make sailing easier.

Deck Gear

This is a pleasant afternoon job. Check all your sheaves are running smoothly, your winches are serviced and the windlass is working as it should. If you’ve ever been on a boat when deck gear fails you will understand how important a little regular maintenance is.

Each piece of equipment will have its own servicing list.

Standing Rigging

Standing rigging refers to the fixed lines, wires and rods which support masts and bowsprits. In extremely bad maintenance situations, the mast could come down! What is more likely though is the boat’s performance will be affected by the rigging requiring adjustments. A correctly rigged boat will be easier to steer and faster too.

Safety Equipment

If you ever need the safety equipment, you are going to be extremely glad it is all in good working order. Of course, it is especially important if you are planning to do longer passages away from the shore. The usual maintenance needs are replacing lifebuoy lights, lifejackets with faulty inflation cylinders and old, unreliable fire extinguishers.

Come and talk to us or find out more about Boat Maintenance Tips

News and Updated

Twitter : https://twitter.com/NYS_StonesBYard

Pinterest : https://www.pinterest.com/nanaimoboatyard/

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/StonesboatyardLtd/

Boat Maintenance Tips

Some of the common questions we receive at Nanaimo Boatyard. More maintenance tips to follow! Read and learn.

How do I clean black streaks on my hull?

There are specialist black streak remover products, but after a while, they strip off the wax and then the water streaks become even more prominent and difficult to remove. If you have a good layer of wax on your boat then the best thing is to stick with boat soap. The popular choice is to use the black streak remover, but as soon as it becomes harder to clean then apply cleaner wax to the area. This way you won’t need to wax the whole boat so often and you will have an easier job cleaning off the black streaks.

Do I always need to clean the salt off my boat?

Sun on a salty boat can result in salty water spots into the gel coat and your glass or plastic windows. Salt can also start to rust stainless steel.

Before you leave your boat even just a few minutes hosing the windows and hull can make a difference but it’s not really enough. For boat health, you need to wash your boat with boat soap or a recommended boat cleaner. Be thorough and don’t just stop at the gel coat, clean all the deck, glass and stainless steel. If you have time wipe down all the windows until they’re dry.

Can I use a pressure washer on my boat?

It is very tempting to use a pressure washer. It’s a fast way of removing black mould, green mildew and more, but you are also removing any wax that is left on your gel coat and it won’t improve the gel coat’s condition for waxing. Pressure washing can remove fittings, easily ruin teak and on a coloured hull or topside can make the colour uneven. Elbow grease is, unfortunately, the answer with boat soap and soft brushes.

How do I know my boat needs some tender loving care?

The first thing people notice is that the boat has become dull and less shiny. This happens because the gel coat has started to oxidize and there isn’t any wax protecting the gel coat from UV rays. You may also notice black specs. These specs are mould and they won’t come off easily.

Once a boat is heavily oxidised no amount of boat soap is going to bring it back to its former glory. Boat detailing companies use power buffers with a rubbing compound and then polish to seal the gel coat and a good coat of wax to help protect it further.

To keep your boat on track the answer is regular maintenance:

• Wash your boat every month.
• Deep clean the interior at the start and finish of each season.
• Wax the hull every year and wax the topsides twice a year.
• Clean the decks and canvas with mildew spray and then treat the canvas with a product to prevent mildew.
• If you have teak decks wash them as often as the rest of the boat and then use a specific cleaner once a year to remove any grease and dirt.
  
  Come and talk to us or check our servicing, repairs and installations

News and Updated

Twitter : https://twitter.com/NYS_StonesBYard
Pinterest : https://www.pinterest.com/nanaimoboatyard/
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/StonesboatyardLtd/

Boat Storage and special offers - Vancouver Island

We have space in the boatyard for Winter Dry Boat Storage: we have space available in the boatyard for dry storage every Fall until the end of February. Call us at 250 716 9065 for more information, or simply fill in our online inquiry form and we’ll contact you to discuss your requirements.

Dry storage is normally storage inside a warehouse. It means your boat is secure and protected from the weather, it saves money on trailer maintenance and less expensive than having a marina berth, but there are some drawbacks. Drawbacks can be you may not be able to get to your boat when you want it and larger boats may not fit. 

 Before you store your boat make sure all valuables are removed from the boat, remove batteries and put them on trickle charge, empty fuel tanks (for fire prevention) and ideally keep your boat protected with a waterproof cover.

Some people like to store their boat at home. If you’ve got the room it means your boat is easily available, it’s free and you can do some maintenance through the winter. The drawbacks are that you are taking up space at home, you’ll need to take your boat to and from the water and protection from rodents and other pests isn’t guaranteed. Before you leave your boat fill and flush your boat with antifreeze, block any holes in your garage to avoid rodents, put the battery on trickle charge and cover your boat up. 

Come and talk to us about our storage options or  Get a Quote

News and Updated

Twitter : https://twitter.com/NYS_StonesBYard
Pinterest : https://www.pinterest.com/nanaimoboatyard/

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/StonesboatyardLtd/

Get A Quote