How to seal a suit for spearfishing. How to care for and how to seal a wetsuit if it is torn

Noticing damage on your favorite wetsuit, it's time to get upset and think about buying a new one ... But you can try and try to "resurrect" a diving suit, making it look like new. How to seal a wetsuit neatly and quickly? What material is better to do this and what tools will come in handy?

Typical Suit Break Locations

Diver clothing is often subject to the following types of damage:

rupture along the seam or in the area of the fold, divergence of threads along the seam;
through rupture of the jacket in any other area;
rupture of a suit with a gaping defect, that is, when a piece of fabric is missing.

In addition, swimmers are sometimes forced to renew their "second skin":

change the structural elements of the suit (knee pads, cuffs, facial obturator);
order new knee and elbow pads;
insert new snakes (main and on the limbs), drainage.

Master's Arsenal

To put the wetsuit in order and eliminate damage, you will need:

long needle for sewing;
tailor's pins;
lavsan threads (they are distinguished by increased strength);
special glue for a wetsuit. This glue is designed for neoprene products and is available in small tubes;

Advice! It is better if you have several types of glue on hand: "Aquashur" (it fills small seams well) or "Omer" (glue that helps to connect parts of fabrics "butt").

thermal tape;
synthetic brush, blunt screwdriver, toothpick;
hardener-cleaner designed for glue ("Kotol-240");
alcohol;
bandage (gauze) and a piece of ordinary fabric;
hard plastic cards (old telephone cards). They will help remove excess glue from the tools or from the product;
masking tape (narrow);
work gloves (medical);
sharp knife or razor;
lead weights;
free workplace (table + hanger);
well ventilated area.

Step by step wetsuit repair

The first thing to do before repair is to clean and dry the suit well. You can wash the product with a special shampoo. The suit must “dry” on both sides: the front and the inside.

The next step is degreasing. The place of gluing is first cleaned with a cloth or bandage, and then alcohol is applied to it, which degreases the surface.

Important! It is necessary to ensure that during cleaning in place with impaired tissue integrity there are no bandage particles left.

Before gluing the damaged parts, you need to practice a little and fill your hand using a hardener-cleaner. With adhesives from different companies, it behaves differently: the hardening time is different. Also, don't be too "generous" when applying glue to the surface of the suit. Excess glue can make the seam rough, hard to the touch. Over time, it may even crack. Therefore, when compressing the glued particles, no adhesive residues should be observed, and if they are, then in a minimal amount.

Features of gluing different types of damage

When working with large breaks, small cracks or severe cuts with torn pieces, there are subtleties:

If the bonding surface is large and bears heavy loads, then it is better to work with it slowly and in stages, then the result will be good. You can also sew the damage from the inside before gluing for greater reliability. After stitching, the edges of the seams must be disinfected and stick adhesive tape on them. The latter is needed so as not to smear the glue on the suit. We seal the defects first with a thin layer of glue, applying it pointwise with a match or a screwdriver, and then after 2-5 minutes we apply the main layer of glue. After that, within 2 minutes, press a little on the places that were worked on. It is necessary to dry the finished item on a hanger with the inside.
A large defect in a wetsuit can be replaced with a piece of neoprene taken from an old suit or from neoprene socks. We cut out a piece of the desired size and sew it on, and then glue it according to the same instructions as a simple breakthrough.

By accurately following all the instructions and putting your diving suit in order, you can safely go to the "underwater battle" for new experiences and trophies!

Ocean and sea depths have always attracted lovers of diving and spearfishing. But these hobbies require not only skills, but also certain equipment. For scuba divers in our time, wetsuits have been developed that are most suitable for swimming, allowing you to feel very comfortable in the water, but also requiring special care, especially in case of damage.

What are wetsuits made of?

How comfortable the sensations of diving enthusiasts at depth will be depends on the right choice of suit. The right size, the degree of fit of the neck cuff, the thickness of the product and the material itself are of great importance.

Lycra, trilaminate and neoprene are commonly used to make wetsuits. Each of the materials has its own function and has its own advantages:

Lycra. Wetsuits made from it are suitable for swimming in warm waters of about 30 degrees. Such suits do not have a thermal insulation function, but are designed to protect the body from scratches from sharp corals, jellyfish, etc.
Trilaminate. This material has been used for the manufacture of diving suits not so long ago, but is already very popular due to its good thermal protection function, low buoyancy (additional diving weights are not required). It is also comfortable to use, elastic, does not allow wind and moisture to pass to the body.
Neoprene. The most common and favorite material among "submariners". It does not restrict movement at all, is very elastic, has a layer of air bubbles. The inside of these wetsuits is usually plush or nylon.

Like any other uniform, wetsuits are prone to damage. This can be facilitated by unsuccessful contact with corals, sharp stones. Sharp temperature drops, improper operation and maintenance are also dangerous for them: all this violates the integrity of the coating, forms scuffs, cracks and, as a result, breaks are inevitable. But fortunately, such damage can be repaired: repairing a wetsuit with your own hands is not difficult.

Examples of glue brands for work

Repairing a neoprene wetsuit will achieve the desired result if a good adhesive is used. There are quite a lot of them on sale now, and therefore it will not be difficult to buy neoprene glue. Among the best are "Bostic", "Picasso", "Technisub" and others. For gluing neoprene, use only special brands of glue! Suitable in many cases, "Moment" and its analogues are not suitable here.

Aquasure

A good adhesive for repairing damage, reinforcing scuffs. Suitable for any type of wetsuit. The place of gluing leaves it so elastic that it can be bent as much as you like: in this place the neoprene will no longer tear. Drying time without accelerator - about 14 hours, with it - up to 2 hours. Applying a thin layer of adhesive to the worn area of neoprene will protect the surface while maintaining elasticity. When dry, the adhesive is similar to silicone.

Picasso

Adhesive suitable for all kinds of neoprene wetsuits, very elastic, durable. After it dries, the place of gluing does not remain rigid even at the seam. The color of the glue is black, which will allow the place of gluing to remain invisible. This glue is suitable for neoprene from any manufacturer.

Bostic

This wetsuit adhesive can be used in combination with toluene solvents for greater effect. It is applied to a dry, cleaned surface, dries within a day. Easy to apply, durable, penetrates into materials of any porosity. Bostic dries within a day, but the sealed place acquires its final high strength in a week. The seams can be bent and compressed.

Bonds any type of rubber very firmly, resistant to salt water, humidity and heat. The stickiness disappears 3 minutes after application, but do not use the product for another day. With the positive properties of this product, you should also observe safety precautions when working with it: do not inhale, avoid contact with the skin. Work in a ventilated area.

Sargan

The main purpose of this tool is to repair minor scratches, cuts. Apply to degreased and dry damage, press the edges for 15 seconds and do not use the product for the next day. In general, the setting time and strength are significantly inferior to, for example, Technisub glue.

Technisub

Considered one of the best adhesives, it can fill even severely torn areas. Returns the repaired place tightness and flexibility, gives a neat appearance. The bonding speed after a minute drying is almost instantaneous, which is very important. The color is black, the glue dries quickly (the thing is suitable for use in a day). Use for repairs on degreased and dry surfaces.

The time required for complete drying depends not only on the adhesive, but also on the thickness of the neoprene and the air temperature.

These types of glue can help not only repair wetsuits, but also seal gaps in inflatable boats, rubber shoes, restoring surfaces without changing the properties of the material.

How to put on a wetsuit

To repair a neoprene wetsuit, you need not only special glue, but also knowledge of the step-by-step implementation of this work.

spread out the suit on a smooth surface;
apply glue from a tube on a thin stick (for small scratches, a toothpick is suitable);
coat both sides of the gap carefully and evenly with glue;
wait 2-3 minutes to let the first layer of glue harden a little;
use your fingers to check if the glue has hardened (no stickiness should be felt);
if the first layer does not stick - apply the second according to the same principle as the first;
dry the sealed area again for a couple of minutes;
after that, fold the edges of the gap on a flat surface together, straighten it and, as if pinching, squeeze the place of gluing with your fingers;
leave the product to lie down and dry until it is ready for use.

This method is described for repairing fairly large damage. In the case of small cuts, cracks or abrasions, it is enough to apply one layer of glue.

If the repair needs to be carried out urgently, and the suit is damp, the damaged area can be thoroughly blotted with a crumpled piece of toilet paper or a napkin, drying the bonding area in this way.

Wetsuit repair is a short process, but it always takes a different time to dry the product. Therefore, in order to avoid unnecessary damage, it is often enough to take care of things, observing the rules of operation and storage. From other causes of breaks and scuffs, unfortunately, it is hardly possible to insure.

Any diving enthusiast can face the problem of wetsuit damage. It is better, not postponing for later, but to repair ohota-diving.ru with your own hands.

Frequently encountered problems:

Through cuts, cuts or tears.
Divergence of seams.
Lightning breakdown.
Replacement cuffs, knee pads.

When repairing a wetsuit, you will need

Needle.
Pins.
Glue for neoprene (it is better to buy 2 tubes).
Thermal tape.
Hardener.
Masking tape.
Blade or sharp knife.
Protective gloves.
Hood.
Alcohol solution.

Basic rules for repairing a wetsuit:

Cleaning the bonded surface.
Be sure to dry the wetsuit on both sides.
Workplace device.
Surface degreasing.
Use of special glue.

When the seam diverges

The problem is solved with a piece of thermal tape. Glue is applied to both sides of the gluing. After 3–5 minutes, glue is applied again and the sides are pressed tightly and gently. After a while, you can let go, cut off the excess glue and strengthen the seam with threads. Further, the cut off thermal tape is applied to the seam and heated with an iron.

small cut

Small surfaces are glued as follows. They are degreased, glue is applied and, after drying, the surfaces to be glued are brought together. It is necessary to press firmly and evenly and wait.

With a through breakthrough, a cut

When you have to work with a large surface, it is better to do it several times. It will be longer, but the result is better. The elasticity of neoprene can play a bad joke when glued together (edges will not match, a wrinkle will appear, a bubble will form). It is necessary to immediately stretch the edges and glue again.

Option 1. The outer surface is stitched. The wetsuit turns out. The edges
degreased and glued with masking tape. The adhesive is applied in a thin layer. The slot expands to dry the glue. Glue is applied again, the edges are connected and pinched. Excess glue is removed.

Option 2. All processes are the same, just instead of sewing up the cut, gluing with patches is used.

With a strong cut

A neoprene of the same thickness is taken, the desired size is cut, and the cut is repaired, but with a patch applied. Having glued and sewn with threads, it is necessary to apply a layer of glue or a patch (thermal tape).

Experienced divers demonstrate confidence and calmness in almost all situations, but beginners can be discouraged and confused, especially when they first discover any damage to their brand new wetsuit. Well, not surprising, because a solid neoprene suit in equipment is the largest expense item. Frankly, the need to buy a new wetsuit or even a relatively inexpensive one with every puncture or cut in the fabric is unprofitable, you see, for an active diver this is not the most rosy prospect.

However, there is no reason to be discouraged, just to avoid a spoiled vacation due to a torn suit, you need to be prepared for any force majeure. Minor damage to a suit or accessories is an unpleasant but typical event, which is why many diving equipment manufacturers package neoprene products and accessories with special repair kits.

Wetsuit Repair Kit

Special glue or cement for neoprene (may vary in color: white or black).
Prepared rubber strips (for gluing patches).
Thermal tapes (for lycra or nylon).

With the help of such a simple kit, you can urgently eliminate the defect and continue your favorite scuba diving within an hour. True, restoring the integrity of a waterproof suit is a responsible process, it should be done in compliance with all the rules and technology for processing a specific porous fabric.

Causes and methods for detecting mechanical damage

Neoprene is a practical high-quality material made on the basis of foamed natural rubber. Since the porous structure provides the diver with comfort due to high thermal efficiency, the material is widely used for sewing dry and wet suits. Depending on the thickness of 3/5/7mm, the material demonstrates excellent performance in warm and cold water, however, there is one technical point that you should pay attention to - sensitivity to mechanical stress.

The most common causes of damage:

natural wear (decrepitude) of the wetsuit (seams, places of increased stress);
tearing and stretching on the canvas, which are formed as a result of incorrect dressing (sloppy or with increased effort);
lack of additional protective devices in contact with the underwater terrain (knee pads, gloves);
the formation of creases, perforations, holes and cuts as a result of improper operation or storage.

Scuba divers know from experience that it can be easier to sense a water leak than it is to find the cause of a suit insulation failure. Sometimes cuts or holes in the fabric are clearly visible, in some cases, when the damage through which water flows inside is negligible in diameter, experienced divers recommend doing a curious procedure.

For the "operation" you will need a bar of soap, two standard glass bottles of 0.5 liters, a 3-liter jar, an elastic band. With the help of glass containers, cuffs and a neck are closed, to ensure tightness, you can use an elastic band for tying. Then the zippered suit is inflated with air using an inflator, carefully treated (soaped) and immersed in water. Bubbles of air floating to the surface unmistakably indicate the location of damage.

Wetsuit repair

Depending on the conditions and the specific situation, an emergency or thorough repair of the neoprene suit and accessories is carried out.

Seizures, scratches, small tears are eliminated with neoprene cement or glue.
To eliminate deep or extensive gusts of fabric, glue and rubber bands for patches are used.

Rules and procedure for performing repairs:

To begin with, you should rinse the suit in fresh water, let it dry, if these are “field” conditions, clean and completely dry the damage site.

Gently rub the glue into the edges of the gust over the entire thickness (if the rupture is extensive, repeat the procedure twice with an interval of 5-10 minutes), wait until the glue thickens in the open air for another 10 minutes.

Try to connect the edges of the resulting hole, observing the most accurate geometry. After connecting the fabric, you should walk along the joint with your fingers, pinching and sealing the junction of the edges.

To fix the effect, you can apply another thin layer of glue on top or stitch the upper fabric of the suit with Dacron or nylon thread.

If a part of the fabric is missing, as they say, “torn out with meat”, a more complex restoration will be required using patches that are applied from the outside of the equipment. The patch itself should significantly exceed the damaged area in size. The prepared strip and the place of its application are smeared with glue. After 5-25 minutes, the patch is applied to the surface of the suit and pressed with a press for 10 minutes. The edges of the patch are treated with glue or neoprene cement, left to dry completely. To prolong the life of a repaired wetsuit, it is recommended to continue using it after 6-8 hours.