Leaking Seams Aside from the overuse of cleaning solutions and the application of silicone protectant on inflatable boats, there is nothing else to boat owner can do to cause the boat s seams to leak. Almost all leaks on seams are caused by hitches in the manufacture and unless your boat is still under warranty you need to take your leaky inflatable to an appropriate repair shop. Wicking is the tendency of air in the inflatable to escape from the inflation chambers by following the thread from one end to the other. This dilemma is common to more expensive boats because the heavy fabrics are not completely soaked or coated with PVC or Hypalon or neoprene. Wicking is not really a problem but it can prove to be remove an annoyance and can become worse over time that you will need to have it repaired. Convertor leaking fabrics become inevitable in old boats even if there is no large abrasion. A large abrasion usually can cause wicking too.
To repair wicking and convertor leaking fabrics, you can paint the exterior or the interior or do both seal. Inflatable Paints It is not easy to detect wicking and convertor leaking fabrics as it will remain undetected using the soap bubble solution method. Some wicking or convertor leaking fabric might be evident if the boat needs to be pumped several times a day and still look limp at the end of day. You can fix and protect your boat by applying a couple of coats of paint inflatable. Yes, there are paints for inflatable boats repairing solely. Studies made by the US Army found that such paint can effectively stop leaks made by pinholes as large as 0.045 inch. However before you coat your boat, make sure that you patch up any visible holes and punctures. There are several credible brands that manufacture paints for inflatables.