How to Repair a Wetsuit Tear

Originally published @ kirkscubagear’s Scuba Scoop 22 June 2012

Fingernail cuts can occur on the smooth surfaces of a wetsuit. This is usually the result of pulling too hard when putting the suit on or by catching or pinching the surface of the wetsuit with your nails. While we make every effort to ensure that our products use the toughest materials available you should be aware that as a performance product wetsuits are not bullet proof and occasionally small tears do occur. Should a tear or fingernail cut occur, then repairing it yourself is a very simple 5 minute job.

Supplies:

You will need Aquaseal Urethane Repair Adhesive & Sealant. Click here to purchase a 1oz tube of Aquaseal. Optionally you can buy a “puncture repair kit” from any bike store (the glue used to fix bike tire innertube is basically the same).

You will also need a small brush (such as an artists painting brush) or a spatula (which can simply be a thin piece of plastic or card).

Step 1: Fold the wetsuit over at the point of the cut so that the cut opens up to reveal the two surfaces that need to be glued back together.

Step 2: Apply a thin, even layer of rubber cement glue to both surfaces. Continue to hold the cut open while the glue dries. Do not rejoin the surfaces while the glue is still wet or tacky.

Step 3: The glue will only take 1 to 3 minutes to dry (depending on room temperature and humidity). The glue looks glossy when wet. It will become matte when dry. Once it appears dry, then check it by gently touching the glue surface to check. It will feel only slightly tacky and will not stick to your finger.

Step 4: Flatten out the suit so that the two surfaces come together. The bond is instant.

Step 5: Pinch the two surfaces firmly together.

Done!

Note: the suit can be used in the water right away. However, the maximum bond is achieved over a period of 4 to 6 hours. Therefore, you should avoid putting any immediate pressure on to the repaired surface.

Thanks to Wetsuit Wearhouse

Kathy Dowsett

www.kirkscubagear.com