How to Repair a Plastic Watering Can?
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Widely used in the garden, plastic watering cans are exposed to the elements. They are exposed to rain, wind, snow, and frost!
These timeless gardening tools generally last for many years, and it is normal for them to wear out. The main possible damages are cracks , holes , leaking welds and denting .
Discover our expert tips for watering and watering cans!
The cracks:
As winter approaches, the plastic of watering cans becomes brittle. If it contains water that freezes, it risks cracking. The problem with these cracks is that the larger they are, the more difficult they are to repair. The pressure of the water in your watering can will also tend to make them larger.
To repair a crack on a smooth (non-dented) surface, we recommend using waterproof adhesive tape. There are several brands and for different uses (including roof leaks, which is how effective they are!).
Your goal will be to cover the entire crack to seal it . You must first thoroughly clean and dry the surface to be repaired to remove any residue or traces of moisture. Then, apply pressure to bring the two edges as close as possible. Don't hesitate to repeat this operation on the other side of the surface (internal and external).
If you've purchased quality tape, you won't need to apply multiple layers. Otherwise, if you only have large moving tape , for example, we recommend applying two layers in opposite directions and then wrapping the watering can around the outside with a third layer. Try it before throwing away your watering can!
The holes:
Our European gardens are full of various thorny plants that can potentially puncture our watering cans. Stones and violent impacts can also cause splintering in your watering can. When faced with material loss, a bandage is often insufficient. It can bind two smooth parts together, but it doesn't replace the missing pieces.
Depending on the size of the broken part, you can try to fill the hole. The challenge will then be to find material that is both flexible and resistant enough to melt or glue . It is important that it is placed inside the watering can, so that the water pressure helps to keep it stuck. You can use glue or putty .
You can also choose to melt a piece of plastic . Remember, in this case, to use a mask to avoid inhaling toxic gas. And be careful not to burn the edges of the hole directly, as this could make it bigger.
Leaky welds:
When welds wear out, it's important to act quickly. This defect can quickly worsen, just like a crack, but if caught early, you won't have to replace your watering can.
We recommend once again using adhesive tape along the entire length of the welds or sealant , applying it on the inside, to cover and protect the fragile weld.
The denting:
A dented plastic part of your watering can is the easiest problem to fix. If pressing the dent isn't enough to restore it to its former glory, we have a solution.
Simply fill your watering can with boiling water . This will soften the plastic, allowing it to naturally return to its original shape. The softer the plastic in your watering can, the easier this will be!
This is an important preventative measure, as denting can, over time, cause cracks and holes.
Bonus:
For this article, we're particularly interested in your feedback. Please let us know what worked or didn't work for you! We'll gradually incorporate your comments into the article.
If you haven't been able to repair your watering can, here's a 10% discount code to replace it: JARDIN10 . And always remember to dispose of your old watering can in a designated area so it can be recycled!
