Does Flex Seal Work On Aluminum Boats?

Flex Seal is a liquid rubber product that can be brushed, poured, or rolled on to help weatherize, repair, and protect outdoor gear. It is often used to seal water vessels, including aluminium boats. However, there are mixed reviews on its effectiveness. Some people claim that it works well for small spots and is a quick and easy fix, while others argue that it is messy, expensive, and not a permanent solution. It is important to note that Flex Seal may not be UV stable and could crack or fail over time. Before applying Flex Seal, it is recommended to read the directions, test in a small area, and ensure that the surface is clean and dry.

Flex Seal's effectiveness on aluminum boats

Flex Seal is a liquid rubber product that can be brushed, poured, or rolled on to help weatherize, repair, and protect outdoor gear. It is super strong and can be used to seal water vessels such as boats and canoes.

Flex Seal can be used to fix leaky rivets in aluminum boats. However, its effectiveness has been questioned by some users. Some people have reported that it worked well for them, while others have found that it peeled off, floated away, or did not stop the leaks. One user reported that Flex Seal worked well for them when applied to the outside of their boat, but that it tended to peel off a little more than they expected. Another user reported that Flex Seal worked for them even after three years. In contrast, another user stated that Flex Seal did not work at all for them and that it was a complete waste of money.

Before applying Flex Seal, it is important to read the directions carefully, wear protective clothing, and clean and dry the intended area. It is also recommended to apply one coat at a time and let each coat dry before applying the next. Additionally, it is best to check the weather forecast and ensure that it will not rain for at least 24 hours after application. Flex Seal takes about 2-3 hours to dry to the touch and 24-48 hours to fully cure.

Some alternative products that users have suggested for sealing leaky rivets in aluminum boats include:

• 3M 5200 or 3M 4200
• JB Weld original, JB Marine Weld, or JB Water Weld
• Devcon Underwater repair putty or Devcon Aluminum Putty
• Gluvit
• Aluminum weldrods
• Butyl tape
• Marine-grade Glovit

Overall, the effectiveness of Flex Seal on aluminum boats may vary depending on the specific situation and the user's experience. It is always a good idea to test the product on a small area first and use your best judgment when applying it for repairs and maintenance.

Alternative products to Flex Seal

While Flex Seal has been used to fix leaks in aluminium boats, there are alternative products available that serve the same purpose.

One alternative is to simply re-rivet the boat. This can be done by flipping the boat over and having someone hammer the rivets from the inside while someone else taps the rivets with a hammer from the outside.

If you would prefer to use a sealant, there are several alternatives to Flex Seal that can be used. These include:

• 3M 5200 or 3M 4200, which are both recommended for use on boats.
• Devcon Underwater Repair Putty, Devcon Aluminium Putty, JB Weld Original, JB Marine Weld, or JB Water Weld.
• Gluvit, which one user claims worked well for them.
• Plumbers Putty, which one user recommends using to seal bigger leaks before coating with another product.
• Menkol, a company that manufactures waterproofing materials.
• Applied Adhesives, a company that provides a range of adhesive solutions, including hot melt, water-based, pressure-sensitive, and sustainable adhesives.
• BDry, a company that offers waterproofing solutions for residential and commercial buildings.
• Henkel, a company that provides adhesive technologies and consumer brands within the chemical and consumer goods sectors.
• CA Plus, a company that produces cyanoacrylate adhesives within the chemical manufacturing sector.

Flex Seal's longevity

Flex Seal has been advertised as a quick and easy way to "coat, seal and protect almost anything". The manufacturer claims that it can be used to fix leaks and protect surfaces from water damage. In this respect, it has been shown to work, with some users reporting successful applications of the product to fix leaks in their boats, roofs, and gutters.

However, the product's longevity is questionable. While some users have reported that Flex Seal can last for years without cracking, peeling, or losing its strength, others have found that it dries out, cracks, and peels off within a much shorter time frame. In addition, Flex Seal has been found to be less effective on vertical surfaces and may require multiple coats to be truly effective, which can be expensive.

For example, one user reported that Flex Seal worked well to fix a leak in their rain gutters, and it lasted for five years. Another user reported that they had used a similar product on a leaky chimney ten years prior, and it was still holding. On the other hand, a user on the same forum thread reported that Flex Seal dried out and cracked on their screen room, and they had to keep adding layers to make it work.

In a test by Consumer Reports, Flex Seal floated a small boat made with a screen bottom, and sealed a crack in a flowerpot, but it took three coats to plug holes in a copper pipe, and larger holes blew out under water pressure. It also failed to seal vertical sections of a gutter, and the product dripped down.

Therefore, while Flex Seal can be effective for small leaks, it may not be a long-lasting solution and may require multiple applications. For more significant repairs, other products may be more suitable, such as 3M5200, G/Flex 650, Devcon Underwater Repair Putty, or Gluvit.

Flex Seal's ease of removal

Removing Flex Seal from various surfaces can be a challenging task, as the product is designed to form a strong adhesive bond. However, with the proper tools and techniques, it is possible to eliminate Flex Seal from different materials. Here is a detailed guide on the ease of removing Flex Seal from various surfaces:

Metal Surfaces:

To remove Flex Seal from metal, it is recommended to act quickly and use a damp rag soaked in acetone. Scrub the metal vigorously until the Flex Seal is removed. This process may require some effort and time. It is important to note that acetone can be replaced with nail polish remover, which serves the same purpose. Additionally, for car exteriors, toluene (paint thinner) is a more suitable option to avoid damaging the paint job.

Fabric and Wood Surfaces:

When dealing with fabric or wood surfaces, acetone is not the recommended choice. Instead, mineral spirits are suggested for these materials. Pour the mineral spirits directly onto the affected area and scrub repeatedly with a clean rag or cloth. This process may need to be repeated multiple times, especially if the Flex Seal has fully cured. For clothing, normal laundering after treatment may be necessary.

Flex Seal Tape:

Removing Flex Seal tape can be particularly challenging due to its strong adhesive properties. To remove the tape, start by prying up a corner with a razor blade or chisel. Then, using pliers, grip the tape firmly and pull it off. To remove the remaining residue, use Flex Seal's adhesive remover or similar products like Goo Gone or WD-40. Spray the remover onto the residue, wait a few seconds, and wipe the surface clean.

Skin:

In the event of Flex Seal coming into contact with the skin, it is important to act quickly. Use a paper towel or rag to wipe off as much of the product as possible before it cures. If the Flex Seal has partially cured or left residue, soak or wash your hands with warm water and soap. Regular bar soap can be used, but soaps containing ground pumice, coffee grounds, activated charcoal, sea salt, or jojoba beads are more effective. If bar soap is unsuccessful, coconut oil or dish soap with orange ingredients can be used.

General Tips:

When working with solvents and chemicals, it is crucial to follow safety precautions and avoid open flames. Additionally, always test the solvents on a small, inconspicuous area of the surface to ensure they do not cause damage or discolouration. Flex Seal customer service is also available to answer any questions or provide further guidance.

Flex Seal's suitability for different types of damage

Flex Seal has been used to address leaks in aluminium boats with varying degrees of success. It is a rubber-based product that can be applied as a liquid or a spray. It is marketed as a quick fix solution for leaks, rather than a permanent repair.

For small leaks, some boat owners have reported success using Flex Seal on their aluminium boats. One user reported that they had a very small leak in their aluminium boat and, after spraying three coats of Flex Seal, the leak was resolved. Another user reported that they used Flex Seal on their bird bath bowls, and while it did not last, they thought it might be worth reapplying every year or two. Similarly, another user sprayed Flex Seal on their waders, which successfully kept their "family jewels" dry.

However, Flex Seal may not be suitable for larger or more serious leaks. One user reported that they tried Flex Seal on their gutters, and it dried out and cracked. Another user applied Flex Seal to their boat and found that it only lasted a year before it started to peel and crack.

There are alternative products available that may be more effective for sealing leaks in aluminium boats. These include Gluvit, Devcon Underwater Repair Putty, Devcon Aluminium Putty, JB Weld Original, JB Marine Weld, and JB Water Weld. Some users also recommend re-bucking or tightening rivets to address leaks.

Overall, while Flex Seal may provide a temporary solution for small leaks in aluminium boats, it is not a long-term fix and there are other products available that may be more effective and durable.

Frequently asked questions