Vinyl repair

[Skysurfer2010]

I want to be proactive on this before it gets worse. Some of my cushions are showing wear (tiny holes) directly in the corners. They're very small (the size of a pencil's eraser) now but I'd like to do something to prevent them from getting worse. Is there anything I can do? Or should I take them into a vinyl shop now to see if they can do anything before they get bigger?

 

[txav8r]

Is it the stitching that is pulling the vinyl and opening the holes where the stitching penetrates the vinyl? Or is it where the vinyl rubs the gelcoat when removing/replacing the cushions? Both of those will probably be considered normal wear and tear, and not really repairable yourself, although some have used the vinyl repair kits to try. The issue is if it is in a high wear area, the repair will fail. So some guys live with it because it probably won't get much worse vs. lifetime of the vinyl anyway, and some guys opt to let a vinyl repair shop take a crack at it. Pictures would help, but an upholstery shop will be able to tell you all of their available options. I had some of the piping beginning to come loose under the edge of the seat cushion and I always removed/replaced without letting it pull due to contact. It is just the nature of the beast on these boats. If you can, take some pics so others see what they may face, and if you get it repaired, post up that too, both in pic and description. I hope you find an inexpensive and lasting solution!

 

[Murf'n'surf]

Those little buggers show up from dragging the corners on the floor -- easily done! It's not worth it to spend the money to patch the vinyl with a pro fix. I would recommend Tear Aid patches that are clear and will help the small hole from getting any larger.

 

[Murf'n'surf]

For some reason I have to put sunglasses on to read Mel's posts!!!

 

[Skysurfer2010]

It's in corners probably from rubbing against gel coat. They're not very noticible. I just don't want them to get bigger.

I'll look into tear aid. Thanks!

 

[txav8r]

Murf...put up a link if you have one to the tear aid patches! Those would be good to use in the corners on a brand new boat to prevent tearing I would expect. And murf...

 

[Murf'n'surf]

http://tear-aid.com

 

[Skysurfer2010]

Thanks for the link!

 

[Lspeedss]

Murf knows some stuff!

 

[Skysurfer2010]

I order 3 pieces of 3"x12" off eBay for $6 each. Thanks for the tip!