Nobody Wants a Mushy Dinghy
Properly maintaining your inflatable boat can be vexing, no? Wait a sec, though, before throwing up your hands and marching off in search of a bottle of rum. As the owner (and chief repair technician) of two inflatable-boat repair companies, let me provide a few pointers.
IN THE KNOW
Before you can even begin to diagnose an issue or determine what kind of work your inflatable may require, you need to know what you have. First and foremost, you need to be aware there are two types of fabric out there: Hypalon (CSM) and PVC. Each is constructed differently and therefore must be treated differently in terms of maintenance and repairs.
Often, the brand you have will help you solve this quandary right off the bat. For example, Avon, AB, Achilles, Caribe, Highfield and Walker Bay are typically Hypalon vessels. Unfortunately, the waters become a tad murkier when it comes to West Marine and Zodiac, since these companies manufacture boats made out of both. If the data plate on your inflatable is intact, consult it to find your model number. A speedy internet search will deliver the specs and material type.
As is the case with so many things maritime, performing periodic inspections of your dinghy will alert you to minor issues before they
