Kayak Repairs
When your sea kayak suffers damage, whether from a rocky landing, an unexpected impact, or years of wear and tear, it’s crucial to have it repaired professionally. At Paddle and Pitch, we are an approved sea kayaking repair centre based in Ireland, providing expert kayak repairs to customers across Ireland. With extensive experience in fixing all types of kayak damage, from gelcoat cracks to structural fractures, we ensure that your kayak remains in peak condition for your next adventure.
Don’t let damage keep you from your next adventure – contact us today for professional kayak repair services.
Why Choose Paddle and Pitch for Kayak Repairs?
A damaged kayak not only compromises performance but can also become unsafe. That’s why professional repairs are essential. At Paddle and Pitch, we specialise in high-quality kayak restoration and maintenance, ensuring that every repair meets the highest safety and durability standards. Our team has expertise in fibreglass, plastic, and composite kayak repairs, allowing us to handle everything from minor cosmetic fixes to major structural refurbishments.
Common Kayak Damage We Repair
-
Gelcoat Damage
Surface cracks, chips, or deep scratches in the gelcoat layer, which, if left untreated, can lead to water absorption and further deterioration.
-
Hull Fractures
Impact with rocks, submerged objects, or accidental drops can cause deep cracks or punctures in the hull.
-
Star Cracks and Stress Marks
Over time, stress fractures appear in high-pressure areas, weakening the kayak’s structure.
-
Seam and Joint Repairs
Damage to the seams in composite or modular kayaks can compromise water tightness.
-
UV and Wear Damage
Exposure to the elements can weaken the material, leading to brittle areas, faded coatings, and weakened structures.
Our Kayak Repair Process
-
Step 1: Inspection and Damage Assessment
Before starting repairs, we conduct a thorough assessment to determine the extent of the damage. We inspect the gelcoat integrity, hull structure, and internal components, identifying both visible and hidden weaknesses.
-
Step 2: Cleaning and Preparation
We clean the affected area to remove salt deposits, dirt, and debris, ensuring a strong bond for the repair materials. Surface preparation is crucial to achieving a seamless repair.
-
Step 3: Structural Repairs
For fibreglass kayaks, we apply multiple layers of fibreglass and resin to rebuild the damaged sections.
Plastic kayak welding is used for cracks and punctures in polyethylene kayaks.
Carbon fibre and Kevlar reinforcement is applied where extra strength is needed.
-
Step 4: Gelcoat and Surface Finishing
We restore the original gelcoat finish, carefully matching the colour and texture of your kayak for a seamless result. This step is essential to protect against future damage and ensure a smooth, hydrodynamic surface.
-
Step 5: Final Quality Check and Water Testing
Before returning your kayak, we conduct a final inspection and water test to confirm that the repair is watertight and structurally sound. This ensures that your kayak is fully restored and ready for use.
Additional Services We Offer
-
Kayak Restoration and Refinishing
If your kayak has faded, suffered from UV damage, or lost its original gloss, we provide full restoration and refinishing services. This includes buffing, polishing, and recoating to bring your kayak back to its original beauty.
-
Custom Modifications and Upgrades
Want to enhance your kayak’s performance? We offer custom modifications, including:
- Upgraded rudder and skeg systems
- Custom seat and padding installations
- Additional storage compartments and fittings
- Reinforced hulls for expedition kayaking
-
Preventative Maintenance and Care Advice
Prevention is key to extending the life of your kayak. We provide expert advice on proper storage, transport, and routine maintenance to keep your kayak in prime condition.
Get in touch with Paddle and Pitch for professional kayak repair services
Links to Our Other Services
Kayak Repairs FAQs
-
How do I know if my kayak needs professional repair?
If you notice cracks, deep scratches, leaks, or structural weaknesses, it’s best to seek professional repair. Small issues, like star cracks or minor gelcoat damage, can worsen over time if left untreated.
-
Can you repair all types of kayaks?
Yes! We specialise in repairing fibreglass, plastic (polyethylene), composite, carbon fibre, and Kevlar kayaks. No matter the material or extent of the damage, we have the expertise to restore your kayak.
-
How long does a kayak repair take?
Repair times vary depending on the severity of the damage. Minor repairs like gelcoat touch-ups can take a few days, while structural repairs may require a week or more for proper curing and finishing.