Bouncy Castle Repairs, What Should I Do?
Inflatable play equipment, such as bouncy castles, brings boundless joy to children and families across the UK. However, like any equipment, they may occasionally require repairs to ensure they continue to provide safe and enjoyable experiences. If you're an operator faced with the task of repairing your EN14960-certified bouncy castle, here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process smoothly.
1. Assess the Damage
The first step in repairing your EN14960 bouncy castle is to thoroughly assess the extent of the damage. Check for tears, punctures, loose seams, or damaged anchoring points. Take note of any safety hazards or structural issues that need attention.
- Does it require immediate professional attention?
- Is the damager impacting use?
- Can it be temporarily patched?
2. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines
Consult the manufacturer's guidelines and maintenance manual for specific instructions on repairing your bouncy castle. These guidelines often include recommended repair methods, materials, and safety precautions to ensure compliance with EN14960 standards.
3. Gather Repair Materials
Once you've identified the repairs needed, gather the necessary materials and tools. This may include repair patches, PVC glue, scissors, cleaning supplies, and a repair kit specifically designed for inflatable play equipment. If you are conducting a minor patch repair follow our minor repairs guide below:
Minor Repairs Guide
Firstly, identify the area that requires a minor repair patch.
1. Clean the area with some rubbing alcohol or alcohol wipe and then dry it off.
2. Measure a box around the hole that requires repairing. Around 4 inches x 4 inches
will suffice depending on the size of the hole. Pleas note if the hole is large, this will require
a professional repair.
3. Cut a PVC to the same size as your marked box.
4. Check the patch is the correct size.
5. Apply some PVC adhesive to the patch and let it set for 1 minute
6. Apply some PVC adhesive to the area around the hole on the inflatable and also let set for
1 minute.
7. Press the patch firmly onto the area surround the hole where you have marked.
8. Leave to dry for at least 20 minutes.
9. Roll your inflatable away
6. What if your inflatable cannot be patched?
If you encounter complex repairs or are unsure about how to proceed, don't hesitate to seek professional assistance. Certified inflatable repair specialists have the expertise and equipment to handle intricate repairs and ensure compliance with EN14960 standards.
If your inflatable has obtained damage that cannot be covered via a patch, then you may need to consult an inflatable repair specialist. These are commonly manufacturers and inspectors, however there are people who are neither that also do repairs. We conduct repairs here at AJL on site at our North West based factory.
7. Document Repairs
Keep detailed records of the repairs performed, including the date, nature of the repairs, materials used, and any additional maintenance or safety checks conducted. This documentation serves as a crucial record of compliance and due diligence.
8. Regular Maintenance and Inspection
To prevent future damage and ensure the longevity of your EN14960 bouncy castle, implement a regular maintenance schedule. Conduct routine inspections, cleanings, and minor repairs to address issues promptly and uphold safety standards.
Repairing your EN14960 bouncy castle requires careful attention to detail, adherence to manufacturer guidelines, and a commitment to safety. By following these steps and prioritising regular maintenance, you can keep your inflatable play equipment in optimal condition, providing safe and enjoyable experiences for children and families across the UK.