I’ve owned multiple inflatable pools over the years, and one thing you can always count on is that you’ll need to patch them at one point or another. Although some pools are more durable than others I expect that they will need to be repaired sooner or later.
Steps To Patch An Inflatable Pool:
- Step 1: Drain The Water
- Step 2: Cut The Patch
- Step 3: Dry And Clean Patch Area
- Step 4: Inflate The Pool
- Step 5: Apply Plastic Glue
- Step 6: Apply Patch
You may not need to follow all of these steps depending on the type and size of the hole in your inflatable pool. You can find a quick fix for each step below. But first I want to show you the steps for finding a leak, if you haven’t already.
How To Find A Hole In An Inflatable Pool
This technique will actually work for anything inflatable. I’ve used this method on inflatable pools as well as pool toys and floats. It’s a quick and easy way to pin point a leak.
Step 1: Create A Soap Mixture
You’ll want to create a soapy water mix in a spray bottle if you have one. Although this can be done with any kind of bucket, I find the spray bottle much easier. To Make soapy water by adding 5 tablespoons dish soap to 20 ounces water.
You can make it as soapy as you’d like, the soapier the better. A spray bottle of a household cleaner like Fantastik and 401 can also be used.
Step 2: Spread Mixture Over Surface
Now spray the soapy mixture, or spread it around from a bucket, over the area of concern. If you don’t have any idea where the hole may be, you’ll have to spray the entire inflatable pool. You should only spray a few square feet at a stretch and check for leaks every step.
You will see air bubbles form over areas where there is a leak. Sometimes, you may have to spray and wipe the area several times before bubbles begin to form. Once you see the bubbles, spray and wipe the area again to confirm you’ve found a leak.
Step 3: Mark The Area Of The Hole
Now that you’ve found the leak, simply mark the area so you’ll know where to apply the patch. I used a piece of white chalk that I had lying around to mark the area that needed patching.
Here’s a funny video of someone using this technique to find a pin hole in an inflatable, this should give you an idea of how it’s done.
Steps To Patch An Inflatable Pool
These steps will require that you have vinyl repair glue and a patch like this Heavy Duty Patch Kit For Inflatable Pools on Amazon. This set includes 8 patches as well as enough glue for multiple patch jobs.
If you have a large inflatable where only the top ring inflates and the hole is in the side liner, you will need something like this Pool Patch Wet Kit (link to Amazon) that kit is made for the liner material and can be applied while the water is still in the pool, that’s a huge plus for those larger inflatable pools.
Step 1: Drain The Water
First, drain all the water out of the inflatable pool completely. The patch will hold up and be much more permanent if it’s applied to a dry surface. If the hole is on the outside of the inflatable pool, you might get away with leaving the water in, I’ve just always found it easier to empty the pool before working on it.
This is fine for small and medium inflatable pools. But it might not be an issue with larger pools. The inflatable ring will usually be above the waterline for larger pools. If that’s the case for you, simply dry the area as best you can.
To You can patch large inflatable pool sidewall liners without draining the water. The patch can be applied wet.
Step 2: Cut The Patch
If you’re using a square patch, you’ll want to cut rounded edges on each corner. Sharp or angled edges on a patch don’t hold up over time. They will eventually start to fall apart after a few months. The patch should be cut so that 2 inches of it touches the pool material.
To If you are trying to patch a pinhole, a 3-inch round patch will work well.
Step 3: Dry And Clean Patch Area
Completely dry the area the patch will be applied. You can clean the area using rubbing alcohol or another sanitizing agent. You must ensure that there are no debris or dirt between the patch area and the pool material.
Step 4: Inflate The Pool
If you inflate the pool right before applying the glue and patch, it will be a lot easier to get a good seal. You want the patch to be in the same state it was in during normal use.
You should apply the patch flat, then inflate it. The patch might pull away easily if you do this.
Step 5: Apply Plastic Glue
Apply the plastic glue or vinyl repair glue to the torn area on the inflatable, and to the back of the patch area that will be pressed onto the pool. There’s no need to gob the glue on here, just a nice thin layer will do the trick.
I like to wet my finger and use it to lightly apply a thin layer of glue to both the patch and the inflatable
Step 6: Apply Patch
Firmly press the patch onto the leak of the inflatable pool. For up to 10 minutes, you may need to keep applying pressure. You should be able to use pressure for a specific amount of time according to the patch kit. After applying the patch, I add more glue to the edges.
To make it more permanent, you can add plastic glue or vinyl glue to the patch’s edges after it has been applied.
Quick Fix Method
For a quick fix that will stand the test of time, you’ll need to get some Shoe Goo (link to Amazon) and apply it directly to the hole. This isn’t an official method recommended by the inflatable pool manufacturers, but it’s a great fix for pin sized holes.
Here’s a video of guy using this quick fix method so you can see it in action.
How Do You Fix A Hole Or Crack In A Kiddie Pool?
To To fix a crack in a kiddie-pool made of hard-plastic, use marine silicon or a hot glue gun to close the hole. To smoothen the silicon, use a putty knife or card. It may take several coats to get the desired result. It is important to dry it after every coat.
I’ve had success using this 3M Marine Grade Silicon Sealant from Amazon before. This tube has enough material to cure large cracks in just 24 hours. For 12 bucks, it’s a good option. You can do this for free if you own a glue gun.
While the glue might not last as long, it is cheaper than silicon. If you already own a glue gun, the glue will still work.
Can You Use Duct Tape To Patch An Inflatable Pool?
You can temporarily patch up an inflatable pool with duct tape. The duct tape will fade quickly and you will need to apply a permanent patch in a short time. However, duct tape can be used to patch a pool temporarily.
I’ve used duct tape to patch an inflatable pool before, and I’ll never waste my time trying to do it again. It’s not worth the hassle to be honest. I’ve had pretty good luck with some waterproof gorilla tape, but even that I don’t recommend wasting your time on.
FAQ:
Q: How do I fix a punctured inflatable pool ring?
A: To fix a punctured inflatable pool ring, use a patch kit that usually comes with the product. Locate the puncture, clean the area, apply the patch, and let it dry for a few hours before inflating the ring again.
Q: Can I use duct tape to fix a punctured inflatable pool ring?
A: While duct tape can provide a temporary solution, it is not a permanent fix for a punctured inflatable pool ring.
Q: How can I prevent punctures in my inflatable pool ring?
A: Avoid placing the pool ring on rough surfaces or near sharp objects to prevent punctures. You can also use a protective mat underneath the pool ring to prevent punctures.
Q: Why does my inflatable pool ring keep deflating?
A: If your inflatable pool ring keeps deflating, there may be a puncture or leak in the ring. Check for visible damage or leaks and repair them with a patch kit.
Helpful Links:
- 12 Best Inflatable Pools By Category
- Heavy Duty Patch Kit (link to Amazon)
- Inflatable Pool Water Treatment Guide
- How To Clean An Inflatable Pool
