How to Repair a Fiberglass Kayak
Kayaks are commonly constructed from fiberglass, which is a lightweight, durable material. Fiberglass is strong but can crack or fracture from hard impacts. Many times kayaks can get cracks or holes in them from hitting rocks. Fiberglass is a repairable material that can be restored to original strength fairly easily using fiberglass mat and resin. Fiberglass resin is a thick liquid that requires a catalyst in order to harden. All fiberglass materials can be found at your local marine supply store.
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Things You'll Need
- Respirator
- Dye grinder
- Rags
- Acetone
- 1.5 ounce fiberglass mat
- Razor knife
- Fiberglass resin
- Catalyst
- Small bucket
- Stir stick
- Felt roller
- Air roller
- Palm sander
- 200-grit sandpaper
Instructions
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1
Put on a respirator and grind the crack or fracture using a dye grinder. Grind half way through the fiberglass making a groove directly on the crack. Gradually taper the walls of the groove.
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2
Clean the surface of the repair using a rag and acetone. Wipe away any dust or any other debris that is on the repair area.
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3
Cut the first layer of mat, using a razor knife, so it fits in the bottom of the groove. Cut three more layers of mat with each layer 1/4 inch bigger than the last.
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4
Add the catalyst to the resin in a small bucket, and mix the resin using a stir stick. Wet out the repair area with the resin mixture using a felt roller. Apply the smallest layer of mat directly in the center of the repair. Saturate it with resin using the felt roller. Remove any air from the mat using an air roller. Repeat this process for the rest of the layers, and let the resin harden.
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5
Sand the fiberglass smooth using a palm sander and 200-grit sandpaper.
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Tips & Warnings
Always wear a respirator when working with fiberglass materials.
