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Caring for Your Inflatable Boat - Common Sense & Consistency Are the Keys
By C.J.Gustafson
Caring for Your Inflatable Boat -
Common Sense & Consistency Are the Keys
Thousands of years ago, the first inflatable boats, made from animal skins, were
used for transportation. People used them to cross rivers, ferry goods to other
locations, and move military troops. Over time, inflatable boats were adapted
for recreational use as well, and for rescue operations. Today there are many
types of inflatable boats and over a dozen ways they are used around the world.
Different militaries across the globe helped bring inflatable boats to the
public attention, and today the government still uses inflatable boats for troop
transport, special military operations, and drug and other law enforcement
activities. In addition, inflatable boats are also used in search and rescue
operations, fisheries patrol and security patrol. They are also used as tenders
on large yachts and ships.
On the recreational side, inflatable boats can be used for diving, fishing,
pleasure boating, river rafting, water skiing, and many other water activities
that involve a boat. Consumers can also purchase inflatable kayaks, canoes, and
sailboats.
Because there are so many different types of inflatable boats and a variety of
ways they can be used, it is important to be familiar with the specific
operating instructions for your particular model and situation. However, there
are a few general use guidelines that apply to most, if not all, inflatable
boats.
Inflating
• When inflating your raft or boat, many manufacturers recommend filling each
air chamber in a clockwise pattern around the boat, just until the craft takes
shape. Then work your way back around the boat filling the chambers to the
pressure level indicated for that particular boat.
• If the floor of the boat is inflatable, add air until the pressure relief
valve releases a small amount of air.
• Don't overfill. A properly inflated boat should have just a bit of give.
• Be aware that air temperature causes changes in the air pressure in the
inflatable chambers. Many boaters fill their inflatable boats in the morning
when the air is cool. But as the temperature increases over the course of the
day, the air in the tubes expands, increasing the pressure. If a tube or chamber
becomes too pressurized, it can explode if struck by a sharp object. You may
have to let some air out at different points throughout the day if you operate
your inflatable boat or inflatable kayak in the hot sun.
• Most inflatable boats deflate simply by opening the air valves.
Standard Precautions
• Because punctures are the main concern with inflatable boats, it is important
to protect if from sharp objects. Use care when transporting diving knives,
spears, fishing hooks, and other objects that could puncture the skin of the
inflatable boat. Watch for barnacles and sharp metal or wood when tying your
boat to the dock, and avoid dragging the boat over rocks and shells when landing
on a beach.
• Even dull objects such as oars, ropes, or coolers can cause abrasion and
deterioration of the coating material if allowed to rub for an extended period
of time.
• It also is important to rinse out your inflatable boat or inflatable kayak
after each use. Sand and gravel can cause abrasion and plug air valves. If left
to soak into an inflatable boat, salt water can cause the material to
deteriorate.
Caring For Your Inflatable Boat
• Cleaning: Armorall and other oil-based products can damage the rubber or
fabric over time and prevent patches from sticking. Mild dish soap is best for
cleaning your inflatable boat. There are also several cleaners designed
specifically for inflatable boats.
• Storage: Because uninflated boats are more vulnerable to damage, many
manufacturers recommend that you store the boat partially inflated and covered
with a tarp. If this is not possible, completely deflate the boat and be sure it
is dry and clean before rolling and storing in the carrying bag. If you plan to
store your inflatable boat on a trailer, be sure there are no bends or kinks in
the boat.
• Repairs: Sometimes, even with the best of care and safety precautions, your
inflatable boat can develop a puncture or leak. Unless you have a major and
obvious accident, it may be difficult to determine the location of the leak.
While the boat is inflated, wipe it with soapy water and watch for bubbles to
form on the surface of the boat as a result of escaping air. Don't assume there
is only one leak. Check the entire boat with soapy water to be sure before
setting out on the water.
Many manufacturers recommend that you bring your boat to a professional for
larger repairs, because it can be difficult to get a good seal with a patch.
However, if you have a small puncture or are in a situation where you need to
make immediate repairs, follow the directions on the patch kit. Some basic tips
include:
-Ensure that the surface is clean and dry before applying the patch
-Be sure the adhesive is sufficiently tacky before applying the patch
-Choose a patch that extends at least three inches beyond the rip in all
directions
If your inflatable boat has rough or cracked areas that are filled with tiny
pinhole leaks, this is an indication that the coating on the material has aged
or become damaged by sunlight, saltwater, overheating or some other type of wear
and tear. While you may be able to patch some of these leaks, it is best to
replace the inflatable boat if other areas show signs of wear.
Inflatable boats, canoes, and kayaks have many advantages over traditional
watercraft, however, because of their special design and materials, they can
require more care and maintenance. But as this article describes, it is not
difficult to care for an inflatable boat, and most problems can be avoided by
using common sense and by developing a consistent routine. If properly cared
for, inflatable boats can provide you with years of service and recreational fun
without the expense associated with traditional watercraft.
About the Author
C.J. Gustafson is a successful writer for http://www.inflatable-boats-n-kayaks.com
providing consumer information on inflatable boats and kayaks,
inflatable catamarans and
boating accessories. She and
her family make frequent fishing trips to Canada's backcountry. The numerous
portages required to reach some of the smaller lakes have made her especially
appreciative of the lightweight, compact design of most
inflatable boats.
Copyright 2005 Inflatable-Boats-N-Kayaks.com
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