How to Glue a Borika Mount onto a SIB (Soft Inflatable Boat)

How to Glue a Borika Mount onto a SIB (Soft Inflatable Boat)

This guide explains how to properly glue a Borika mount to an inflatable boat (SIB) using a two-part adhesive. Accurate preparation and bonding are critical for a secure and long-lasting installation.

⬇️ Jump to a step in this guide:

Tools and Materials Needed

  • 🔩 Borika mount base
  • 📝 Stencil (provided with the mount)
  • 🧴 Ethyl acetate (cleaning solvent)
  • 🧼 Clean cloths
  • 🧪 2-part PVC adhesive (e.g. IBS Inflatable Boat Adhesive)
  • 🫙 Mixing container and stirrer
  • 🖌️ Brush (for adhesive application)
  • 🔥 Hair dryer or hot air gun
  • 🧰 Small roller or blunt tool (e.g., screwdriver handle)
  • 📏 Masking tape or pencil (to outline)

❗ Key Detail: Only use a 2-part adhesive that is specifically designed for PVC fabric. Adhesives for Hypalon will not work and will result in bond failure.

Preparation

💡 Pro Tip: For the strongest bond, work in a dry, controlled environment (ideally between 18°C and 25°C with humidity below 60%) and never in direct sunlight.

1. Clean the Surfaces


Clean both the underside of the Borika mount and the target area on the boat using ethyl acetate. Remove all dirt, grease, or residue. Allow the surfaces to dry completely.

2. Mark the Placement

Position the mount where you want it on the boat. Either trace around it with a pencil or secure the included stencil in place with masking tape.

⚠️ Warning: Avoid mounting near seams or folds in the inflatable fabric. The uneven surface will prevent a flat, strong bond.

Adhesive Application

3. Mix the Adhesive

In a well-ventilated area, mix the two-part adhesive. Recommended ratio: 20 parts adhesive to 1 part hardener.

💡 Pro Tip: Once mixed, the adhesive has a limited "pot life" before it starts to harden. Only mix as much as you need for the immediate job.

4. Apply the First Coat

Apply the first coat of adhesive to both the mount and the marked area on the boat. If using the stencil, brush inward toward the centre to avoid getting glue under the stencil edges.

5. Wait and Apply Second and Third Coats

Wait about 5 minutes. The glue should feel dry but tacky to the touch. Repeat the process for the second and third coats, waiting 5 minutes between each application.

Heat Activation and Mounting

6. Heat the Surfaces

Use a hair dryer or hot air gun to heat both glued surfaces gently. The glue will begin to bubble and change colour—this means it’s activating. Do not overheat.

⚠️ Warning: Keep the heat gun moving constantly. Overheating the PVC can permanently damage or even melt the fabric.

7. Attach the Mount

Carefully align the mount and press it firmly into place. Avoid touching the stencil if one is in use. Once the mount is placed, remove the stencil immediately.

❗ Key Detail: This is a "contact" bond. Once the two surfaces touch, they cannot be repositioned. Align it carefully before making contact.

8. Apply Pressure

Press firmly from the centre outward to ensure full contact and eliminate air bubbles. Use a roller or the handle of a screwdriver. Hold firm pressure for about one minute.

Final Steps

9. Clean Up and Cure

Use a clean cloth and ethyl acetate to remove any excess glue. Allow the glue to cure for 24 hours before attaching any accessories to the mount.

❗ Key Detail: For maximum strength, wait at least 24-48 hours before inflating the tube to full pressure or putting any load on the mount.

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