How to fix a puncture in a paddle surf board?

Inflatable paddle surf boards are an excellent resource for enjoying this water sport with a whole host of advantages. These paddle boards require some maintenance and, in case of air loss, there is a procedure to learn how to fix a puncture on a paddle surf board. We explain how to do it step by step in this practical guide.

What is included in the inflatable paddle surf repair kit?

At HUIIKE, all our paddle surfboards are made of super reinforced "Dropstitch" composite, an advanced technology with hermetic military grade PVC coating and high durability with double side layer. This makes our boards tough and reliable in all kinds of situations.

But, as accidents can happen and we don't want anything to stop you from enjoying this sport to the fullest, we have included a repair kit together with our boards, designed to solve those little unexpected problems that may arise while using your paddle board.

Whether it's an air leak in the inflation valve or a small puncture, the HUIIKE inflatable paddle surfboard repair kit is ready to provide a solution for all of them. Included in the kit are:

• 1 wrench to tighten the valve
• 2 patches of different colors
• 1 reusable watertight canister

In order to avoid that the passage of time may cause the patch glue to lose its properties, which would affect its bonding ability, we have decided not to include it in the kit.

However, you can buy it separately at any hardware store if you ever need it. The glue, in this case, should be special for repairing PVC.

If you are still learning, here you will find a complete step-by-step guide on how to paddle surf.

How to repair a puncture on an inflatable paddle surfboard

To fix a puncture on a paddle surf board, follow the steps below:

1. Locate the area where the puncture is with a mixture of soap and water.
2. Prepare the area by cleaning it with neutral soap and drying it properly.
3. Apply glue on the surface where the puncture is and on the face of the patch to be glued.
4. Place it on the affected area and apply pressure for a few minutes, making sure that the air trapped inside is expelled.
5. Leave some weight on the patch and wait 24 hours for the glue to dry.
6. Inflate the board to 7 PSI and check with soap and water that there are no leaks. If there are no leaks, you can now inflate the board to 15 PSI for use.
7. Wait 48 hours before using the board in the water again.

Fixing a puncture on a paddle surf board step by step

Now let's see, step by step, how to fix a puncture on a paddle surfboard. The process is very simple and you will only need the repair kit, glue, gloves, scissors, a brush, an absorbent cloth, a mixture of soapy water and an object to apply weight while the patch dries.

1. Locate the air leak

The first step in fixing a puncture in an inflatable paddle surfboard is to locate the exact spot where the air leak is. Before you start, keep in mind that your board may not be punctured even though it deflates after a few hours.

The leak could be in the inflation valve, which is easily fixed with the wrench included in the repair kit. If this is the case, follow the procedure below:

1. Remove the valve cover.
2. Remove all air from the board.
3. Place the wrench on the valve and turn it clockwise until it is tightened again.
4. Once tight (do not over tighten), re-inflate the board to 15 PSI and check for leaks.

If the air leak is not in the area around the inflation valve, there may be a puncture. To locate it, you should use a mixture of water and neutral soap. Use a spray bottle to apply the solution to the surface of the board and observe carefully.

You will know there is a puncture because soap bubbles will be produced at the exact location of the air leak. Clean the area thoroughly by removing any remaining soap and water. Make sure it is dry before the next step.

Do you know where to paddle surf? Here are some places and tips.

2. Prepare the area to fix a puncture on a paddle surfboard.

At this point, we must prepare the area to put the patch. Once dry, mark the area so as not to lose the reference of the place where the air leak is. To work more comfortably, deflate the board completely. Make sure the inside of the board is dry before applying the patch.

The next step is crucial to make sure that the patch sticks and seals the puncture properly, so you won't have problems with leaks in the future.

Use neutral soap to clean the area and remove any traces of grease, marine debris or moisture. The goal is to be completely dry and decontaminated, so that the glue will adhere properly to the surface and seal the puncture.

Cut a piece of patch that protrudes at least 1.5 cm from the point where the puncture is located. To ensure that the repair is durable, the patch should have no corners. Round them off to prevent the patch from rubbing and wear and tear and to prevent it from peeling off at one of the corners over time.

3. Glue the patch

In this step, we advise you to use gloves to protect your hands from the glue. Apply it directly on the area where the puncture is. Keep in mind that, once the patch is applied, all the excess will come out of the sides, so it is advisable to apply glue in an amount according to the size of the area to be covered.

With a brush or paintbrush, spread the glue around the area around the puncture. Do the same on the patch, making sure that the entire surface is impregnated with the glue. Wait a few minutes for the glue to start drying, as this is when it will adhere best and you will get the best results.

Place the patch over the area to be covered and press well with your hands, massaging from the center to the sides to remove any trapped air. You can use a card or a plastic spatula to remove the air. Do not use any metal tools, with sharp or pointed ends that may damage the board or affect the effectiveness of the patch.

4. Drying

Next, in the process of fixing a puncture on an inflatable paddle surfboard you will find that the excess glue has been pushed out the sides. Use a cloth to carefully remove the excess. Now, place some weighty object that will not damage the board. Something weighing a few kilos is sufficient. Do not overdo it so as not to damage the surface of the paddle board.

The time you should wait for the glue to seal properly is at least 24 hours. However, check the product specifications and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for best results.

And if you want to know how to choose a paddle surf board correctly, here is a complete guide.

5. Final check

The last step in fixing a puncture in a paddle surfboard is to check that the work done up to this point has taken effect. With the inflator, inflate the board to 7 PSI and recheck for air leaks. You will need to apply the soap and water solution to the area as in the first point.

If there are none, you can re-inflate the board to 15 PSI. Our recommendation is that you wait about 48 hours from the time you glued the patch on your paddle surfboard before entering the water. This will ensure that the affected area has been properly sealed, without risk of further air leakage.

And from here on you will only have to enjoy your paddle surf board again. Remember that the experience is always better in company. In our social networks you will find more interesting content.

Life is a journey to be experienced!