With so many vinyl products in common use today, it is no surprise that repairs must be conducted from time to time. In many situations, the repairs are minor and can be completed at home with the use of a few simple tools. Other repair projects may require professional attention. Here are some tips on how to repair vinyl around the house, as well as how to know when to call in a pro to handle the vinyl repair.
Generally, it is easy to repair vinyl around the house when the job involves taking care of a cigarette burn in upholstery, or a small tear in the a vinyl rug or floor tile. With repair jobs of this type, all the materials you need are found at the local hardware store. Purchase a set of vinyl patches of difference sizes, along with a tube of vinyl adhesive. Keep in mind you may need a pair of scissors to trim the size of a given patch to conform properly to the rip or tear.
Begin repairing vinyl rips by cutting a section of the patch material that is slightly bigger than the actual tear. The section of patch should be large enough to slide easily into the tear without causing the rip to expand, while still filling the entire expanse of the rip. Smooth out the patch to make sure there are no wrinkles to the surface of the material.
Once the patch is in position, apply the vinyl adhesive to the edges of the tear as well as across the surface of the patch. Make sure the adhesive is spread evenly across the tear. Before the adhesive can begin to set, use the tool that came with the patches to press the edges and the patch together. In some cases, the vinyl will have a pattern, making it possible to mimic the grain of the vinyl and make the patch less noticeable.
The final task necessary to repair vinyl involves allowing the adhesive to dry and the patch to set. Make sure the adhesive has at least twenty-four hours to dry. During that time, keep the material out of direct sunlight and avoid walking or sitting on the patched area.
While it is possible to repair vinyl when the tear is relatively small, it may be necessary to call in a vinyl repair service for larger jobs. One example is when the job requires vinyl siding repair or vinyl leather repair to car seat upholstery. The adhesives available to the general public may not be strong enough to withstand the heat or sunlight that the upholstery or the siding is generally exposed to. However, commercial adhesives will create a bond that will hold up to more stringent conditions.
The same is true when it is necessary to repair vinyl floor. While simple patch kits will work fine for a small tear, larger rips will require the attention of a professional. If you are not sure whether to repair the damage yourself or have it done professionally, ask for an estimate from a professional. An ethical vinyl repair expert will tell you if the job can be accomplished with a kit, or if more comprehensive measures are required.