How to Patch An Inflatable Pool? Everything You Want To Know
Perhaps the best way to beat the heat when the sun is shining and the temperatures are high is to unwind in a kiddie pool. Kiddie pools are a great option because they are inflatable and are simple to tuck away when the weather cools off, even though visiting the neighborhood beach can be enjoyable occasionally. Even better, you can simply clean out your kiddie pool and transform it into a totally awesome DIY ball kit for the kids as the seasons change.
Sounds pretty awesome, no? We think so too. However, do you want to know what’snot so awesome? When you inflate your kiddie pool, you discover a hole in it.*sigh*
When most people discover a hole, they frequently leave their kiddie pools on the curb to be picked up on Tuesday with the trash. But we have good news for you: You can quickly patch up that annoying hole with the right equipment and a little patience. Here’s how:
Please continue reading for more information.
Table of Contents
First Things First, Find the Hole
Given that some kiddie pools are quite large, fixing a hole in one of them will be impossible if you don’t know exactly where it is. You can quickly find the hole and patch it up by using the technique described below.
Create a Soap Mixture
If you have a spray bottle, use that to make a soap solution; if not, a bucket of some sort will work just as well. Simply combine twenty ounces of water with five tablespoons of eco-friendly dish soap to create your soapy water mixture.
Spread Mixture over Surface
Once your soap solution is ready, spray it over the troublesome area or spread it out from a bucket. You will need to spray the entire inflatable pool if you have even the slightest idea of where the hole might be.
Small air bubbles will begin to form over any air leaks as a result of the soap solution. Before you notice the bubbles beginning to form, you may need to spray and wipe the area several times. However, once you do, repeat the process to make sure you have located the leak.
Mark the Area
Now that you’ve finally located that pesky leak, simply mark the area so you’ll know where to apply the patch. If you neglect to complete this step, you’ll have to return to step 2 to locate the leak once more.
Patch It Up!
Fixing the leak is now necessary. The vinyl repair glue and PVC patch needed for the following steps are for inflatable pools. PVC patches are included in every FUNBOY float box, but if you run out, you can usually find them at sporting goods stores or even on Amazon.
Drain the Water
First, drain all the water from your inflatable pool and either clean it with a fresh towel or leave it outside in the sun until it is completely dry. If you apply the PVC patch to a dry, clean surface, it will hold up and be much more durable.
Cut the Patch
If you happen to be using a square patch, you’ll want to cut rounded edges on each corner. Sharp or angled edges on a patch tend to peel after only a few months and don’t hold up very well over time. On each side of the hole, cut the patch so that at least two inches will touch the kiddie pool material.
Pro Tip:A three-inch round patch would be ideal for repairing a pinhole.
Dry and Clean the Patch Area
Dry the surface area where the patch will be applied completely. After it has dried, sanitize the area with rubbing alcohol or another sanitizing cleaner, making sure there is no debris, algae, or dirt that could get between the patch and the pool material.
Inflate the Kiddie Pool
It will be much simpler to achieve a good seal if the kiddie pool is inflated just before you apply your patch. The patch should be applied under the assumption that it will be used ordinarily. Simply put, your patch may stretch if you apply it while your kiddie pool is deflated and then inflate it, failing to completely seal the hole.
Apply the Glue
Apply the vinyl repair glue to the torn area of your inflatable and to the back of the PVC patch area that will be pressed onto the pool. Just a thin layer of glue will do the trick; no need to apply gallons of it!
Apply Your Patch
Next, firmly apply your PVC patch to the kiddie pool’s leak. To ensure that it gets a good grip, you might want to keep applying pressure for up to ten minutes or so, but since every patch kit is unique, be sure to read the instructions for the recommended duration of time.
Pro Tip:Adding a little more repair glue to the outside edges of the PVC patch after it has been applied will help make a more permanent patch fix.
Let It Dry
It’s a good idea to wait 12 to 24 hours for the glue to dry before filling the hole back up with water after you’ve secured your patch in place and covered the hole. To avoid having to start over from scratch, this will guarantee a tight seal.
How Do You Fix a Hole Or Crack in a Kiddie Pool?
Get some marine silicon or a hot glue gun, and seal the hole or crack to repair a hole or crack in a hard-plastic kiddie pool. After leveling the silicon with a card or putty knife, allow it to dry. It might take several coats. After each coat, make sure to let it dry completely.
I’ve had success using this 3M Marine Grade Silicon Sealant from This tube will contain enough to patch up significant cracks and cure in around 24 hours. It’s a good option for $12. It could be completed for nothing if you have a glue gun.
Can You Use Duct Tape to Patch An Inflatable Pool?
Duct tape can be used to repair an inflatable pool temporarily. The duct tape won’t last for very long, so an immediate more lasting repair is required. Duct tape can be used as a temporary fix in a pinch to patch a pool, though it is not advised.
I’ve used duct tape to repair an inflatable pool before, but I won’t waste time attempting to do it once more. To be honest, it isn’t worth the trouble. I’ve had pretty good luck with some waterproof gorilla tape, but even that I don’t recommend wasting your time on.
Pool Leak Detection
Ensure the water is pure. You won’t overlook any tears during the inspection because of the clear water. Turn off the pool pump and maintain calm in the water as well.
Move around the pool while wearing your snorkeling gear, goggles, and looking for the leak.
If you are unable to locate a single leak, squirt a small amount of the poop dye around the pool’s liner.
Pool Leak Repair
- Conduct a thorough cleaning of the area surrounding the leak.
- Take a patch out of your leak-repair supply. The patch should be an inch bigger than the leak.
- Place the patch on a smooth surface, then cover the underside with waterproof epoxy or cement.
- Place the patch underwater and into the leak’s location after folding it.
- On top of the leak, press the patch.
- Work your fingers outward from the center of the patch to smooth it.
What Causes a Pool Liner to Tear?
Your liner may become brittle as a result of chemicals and the sun’s rays combined. Rips and leaks can happen when certain parts of the liner break.
Because outdoor pools are the most common, they are subject to the sun’s UV rays, which can be harmful. Pools also require chemical treatment to ensure that the water is suitable for use. Your pool’s algae won’t grow because of these chemicals.
Pool liners can last up to 12 years with proper care and upkeep. However, the elements and chemical exposure can hasten the degeneration of your pool liner.
How Do You Know If Your Pool Leaks?
Here are 6 signs that if your pool is leaking:
- Deterioration and Cracks
- Signs of Fading
- Significant Water loss
- Standing Water Near Your Pool
- Fluctuating Chemical Levels
- Discolored Water or Algae
Deterioration and Cracks
Pool chemicals and harmful ultraviolet rays cause pool liners to degrade over time. You should watch out for signs of wear and tear such as deterioration and cracking.
Remember that hairline leaks are so minute that you hardly notice them. Watch the water level for a week to see if your pool has tiny cracks.
You may need to locate and fix cracks if you notice that your pool has lost more than an inch of water.
A Florida Pool Leak Detection expert in your area might be worth hiring. They have the most up-to-date leak detection technology available. You can be sure that even the slightest cracks will be noticed.
Signs of Fading
The pool liner may eventually fade as a result of sunlight and chemicals used to treat pool water. The liner’s severe fading is a sign that it is degrading. Although the majority of pool liners are resistant to wear, this does not mean they are impermeable.
Plasticizers used in pool liners encourage flexibility. Additionally, they lessen the vinyl material’s brittleness. The vinyl, however, tends to deteriorate when plasticizers are exposed to it. The moment the liner becomes brittle, tears and cracks start to appear in the pool.
Significant Water Loss
Significant water loss is a surefire indicator that your pool is leaking. The majority of contemporary pool liners are impervious to punctures. Even so, if the liner has seen better days, leaks and tears may start to show.
The Florida sun’s evaporation of water also contributes to the water loss in your pool. Another reason is kids splashing around. However, these are typical and not alarming.
Is there a significant water loss in your pool on a weekly basis? Make an immediate call to the local swimming pool repair service that is closest to you.
Standing Water Near Your Pool
A puddle next to your pool is another indication that there is a leak. This is especially true if no one has used your pool in weeks and there hasn’t been any rain.
Try looking at the nearby grass if there are no puddles around your pool. There may be an underground leak if it feels mushy and appears uneven.
Fluctuating Chemical Levels
The chemical balance of your pool may suddenly drop, which could indicate a leak. The chemicals used for treatment are carried away by the water that leaks from your pool. Therefore, to make up for that loss, you need to add more chemicals.
However, maintaining your chemical levels consistently throughout the day is a laborious process. If you have a leak, you should hire a Pool Leak Detection expert. By doing this, the leaks will be stopped and additional damage will be prevented.
Discolored Water Or Algae
Algae may begin to breed and grow quickly in your pool if the chemical level is low. Your pool’s water may turn green due to the rapid growth of algae.
Infested pool water with algae is hazardous. Swimming pool algae can result in severe skin infections. Make a quick call to your neighborhood Pool Leak Detection company if you notice that your pool’s water has turned green recently.
Final Words
It’s easy to fix leaks in a pool that has water in it. Still, pool liners don’t last forever. If the pool liner is beginning to deteriorate, many patches won’t be sufficient.
Call Nelson Pool Company if you need your pool’s liner replaced or repaired. For pool owners in Florida’s Manatee County, Bradenton, and Sarasota, we have authorized contractors available.
Keep in mind that finding leaks quickly can help you avoid having to pay for expensive pool repairs down the road.
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