How to Fix Interior Vinyl Cracks

Many cars as well as homes have interior components made of vinyl, such as dashboards and furniture upholstery. Vinyl parts that sit just below the window can dry out and possibly develop cracks because of the heat. Harsh cleaners and protectants can also dry out vinyl. Severe cracking requires an overlay or full vinyl replacement, but a simple patch job will fix most minor cracks. Look for do-it-yourself vinyl patch kits from automotive or furniture and upholstery suppliers.

All-purpose cleaner
Razor blade
Fabric backing
Scissors
Filler
Spatula
Patch compound
Grain paper
Heat tool

Instructions

- 1
  Wipe down the repair area, using all-purpose cleaner. Allow the area to dry. Trim away any frays or burns from around the lips of the crack with a razor blade.
- 2
  Slip fabric vinyl backing under the vinyl at the bottom of the crack, if possible. Cut the fabric slightly larger than the crack and poke it under the surrounding vinyl with a small metal or plastic spatula.
- 3
  Fill the crack with vinyl filler, using the spatula. Smooth the adhesive level with the surface of the surrounding vinyl. Allow the filler to cure for the time indicated in the kit’s instructions.
- 4
  Prepare the vinyl patch compound. Combine the appropriate colors to create a shade that matches the cracked vinyl. Kits contain color-mixing instructions.
- 5
  Spread a thin patch over the cracked area. Blend the edges of the patch with the surrounding vinyl.
- 6
  Heat up the vinyl-heating tool. Select a grain pattern paper that matches the dashboard. Place the paper grain side down on the patch. Iron the paper with the vinyl-heating tool to imprint the pattern into the patch. Wait for the area to cool then remove the paper.

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