Patching a leak in a vinyl liner

[CarlD]

If you get the outer patch sealed properly (I use a rubber tile roller) it will be FINE and last for years. I've tried other patching materials, but the Boxer glue and liner material, double-patched, make the BEST and most durable patches. IMHO.

[JimK]

If you get the outer patch sealed properly (I use a rubber tile roller) it will be FINE and last for years. I've tried other patching materials, but the Boxer glue and liner material, double-patched, make the BEST and most durable patches. IMHO.

I greatly appreciate the feedback and suggestions.

I do need to get a set of goggles before making the repair (I don't have any). The tear is in a corner that points into the pool (lazy L shaped pool) a few inches above where it meets the floor of the shallow end. I can't quite reach the tear without dunking my head under water, so goggles would probably be a good idea. I guess cheap goggles would be good enough? Suggestions?

[CarlD]

Yeah, cheap goggles. If you get the glue on them (it floats and you do NOT want it on your skin or in your hair) they are probably ruined.

[JimK]

I found an old pair of goggles in the closet, so I tried installing the patch.

What a PITA. First attempt was a bust. The tear is just deep enough that when I submerged and tried to unfold the patch and apply it I kept floating away. Second attempt with another patch went better. I smoothed it out with a wallpaper seam roller. Looks good...we'll see how it holds up.

Oh, and despite trying to be careful, I got glue on my hands. Looks like I'll have glue peeling off the next few days..lol

[CarlD]

Yeah, I find that "fold the patch" instruction NEVER works! I just coat it carefully out of the water, then drag it down and put it on, and roll it. But I always put on the larger patch next.

If the water's at all cold, I'll wear an old pair of wetsuit gloves to keep most of the glue off my fingers. BTW, acetone should clean that glue right off your hands.

[JimK]

Thanks for the tips. I'll keep them in mind for next time.