Don’t let snapped goalposts or cracked cones cut practice short. Use the right adhesives to make effective, long-lasting repairs and get back on the field quickly, with minimal spending.
Instead of running to the sporting goods store every time something breaks during soccer training, you can make quick repairs and avoid ending training sessions prematurely or spending more money for a replacement.
Plastic soccer equipment is designed to be lightweight and portable. These properties also make it susceptible to damage from heavy impacts or improper handling. Repairing minor damage extends the life of your equipment and keeps it out of landfills.
As the Official Partner of the U.S. Soccer Federation, Loctite brings professional-grade adhesives to everyday soccer repairs. Read below to find out what you need and the steps to follow when fixing plastic soccer equipment.
Soccer cones are an essential part of soccer training gear. They can be used in a variety of training exercises designed to boost players' speed and agility. A cracked or broken cone fails at its primary task of being seen by players. If it is unstable, it can present a tripping hazard or become unusable, leaving you shorthanded on the training ground.
Fix cracked or broken soccer cones with the following steps:
1. Supplies:
2. Prepare the damaged area: Mud, dirt, and dust prevent adhesive from sticking to surfaces being bonded. For a strong, lasting bond, use isopropyl alcohol to clean the damaged area, then let it dry completely.
3. Apply adhesive: Take your Loctite Super Glue Ultra Gel Control and apply it to the crack. The gel formulation does not run, ensuring precise application.
4. Close the crack: Press the crack together and hold for at least 60 seconds for the adhesive to set. Leave the cone undisturbed for 12 hours to allow the glue to cure fully.
For larger cracks or holes, follow these steps:
1. Supplies:
- A scrap plastic patch that is about half an inch larger than the crack
- Utility knife
- Loctite Super Glue Ultra Gel Control
- Sandpaper
- Clamp
2. Prepare the patch: Use a utility knife to round the patch corners to prevent peeling. Roughen the patch and cone surface with sandpaper for better grip.
3. Apply adhesive: Cover both surfaces with several drops of Loctite Super Glue Ultra Gel Control.
4. Join the two surfaces: Firmly press the patch to the damaged area of the cone and clamp it down for at least 60 seconds for the glue to set. Allow the adhesive to cure fully (around 12 hours) before using the cone.
Sun damage, impact, and rough handling can damage your portable plastic goals. You can fix broken posts or joints using a reliable epoxy adhesive and a few readily available supplies. Use the steps below to quickly fix broken goals and get back to sharpening your shooting skills.
1. Supplies:
- Loctite Epoxy Instant Mix 5 Min
- A piece of PVC pipe slightly wider than the goalposts
- Utility knife
- Clamps
- Sandpaper
2. Prepare the damaged area: Start by thoroughly cleaning the broken section. You can remove the goal net to give yourself enough space to work. Lightly sand the area to add grip, then wipe it clean and dry.
3. Apply adhesive: Take the Loctite Epoxy Instant 5 Min and apply the adhesive mix along the crack. The self-mixing nozzle eliminates the need to mix the resin and hardener yourself.
If you are fixing a snapped post, apply epoxy to the surfaces you intend to join, then use the spare piece of PVC pipe as a coupler. To do this, cut the pipe to size (extending about 2 inches on both sides of the break), then apply adhesive to the inside of the spare PVC pipe. Join the broken parts, and position the piece over the crack. This acts as reinforcement.
Note: Epoxy’s gap-filling properties and strong bonding power make it a great fit for soccer goal repairs. Once cured, the joint can handle regular impacts without falling apart.
4. Clamp the joint: Use a clamp to hold the joint together firmly for at least 5 minutes for the adhesive to set. Allow the epoxy to cure fully by leaving the joint undisturbed for 24 hours.
5. Remove excess adhesive: To achieve a clean look, use a utility knife to carefully cut away the dried adhesive. Alternatively, you can sand away the dried epoxy.
Extend the life of your plastic soccer equipment with the following tips:
- Keep gear clean: Before storing gear, always clean each item with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh cleaning solvents that degrade plastics.
- Proper storage: Direct exposure to the elements can weaken plastics. Safeguard your gear by storing it under a cover or indoors.
- Avoid rough handling: Do not drag plastic gear over abrasive surfaces. Furthermore, avoid kicking or throwing cones and portable goals, as the impact can cause serious damage.