Storage and Maintenance

Repairs

It is hard to avoid the appearance of scratches on the hull of your kayak. The question is whether they require special care!

Composite kayak. Scratches need not be repaired unless some fibre is exposed.  Superficial scratches will disappear with a coat of polish.  However, deep scratches may be coated with Gelcoat Polyester paint the colour of your kayak. Contact your dealer for information on how to obtain the paint.  After sanding and polishing, your kayak will look brand new. 

Plastic kayak. Don’t worry: the plastic is quite thick. However, scratches are impossible to remove by sanding and polishing. If the hull of your kayak is deeply gouged or perforated, it must be welded with polyethylene. In such case, we recommend that you contact your dealer for advice. If your dealer can not help you, please contact us.   

Deformed plastic kayak. Turn it upside down and expose it to sunlight for a few days. Polyethylene is a memory compound that tends to return to its original shape. However, if bumps or undulations have been present for too long a period, this solution will prove inefficient. You will have to proceed as follows:

1. Rest the kayak on foam blocks positioned one-third the length of the kayak from the bow and stern. The blocks must follow hull contours as much as possible. Their ideal base of support is 12 cm (5 in).
2. Pour 23 L (5 gallons) of very hot water into the cockpit.
3. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes.
4. Pull on a pair of gloves and press down on the bumps in the hull bottom with your hands.
5. Allow the weight of the water to press down on the lower hull for about two hours, then empty the kayak.
6. For easier access to the bumps, remove the four screws securing the seat in place and slide the seat forward.

All components used in the manufacture of your kayak are available. To purchase replacements, contact your dealer or write us at info@borealdesign.com or go to www.borealdesign.com