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Pool patches are an easy and affordable way to repair tears, holes, and cracks without calling in a pro. We tested eight of the most popular options to see which ones actually hold up (literally!). Our testing included both vinyl repair kits and underwater pool patch kits, used on everything from small punctures to larger liner cracks across a variety of pools in Florida, where the sun is tough on pool materials.
There are many pool patches on the market, and it’s reasonable to ask whether it really matters which patch is used to cover a leak. The answer is that it does matter. A poor-quality patch can peel, bubble, or fail entirely, wasting time, effort, and money, as well as stealing precious pool time during the hottest months. That’s why after testing a range of products, we recommend the Gorilla Waterproof Patch & Seal Tape as the top pick. It delivered a fast, long-lasting fix across multiple pool types, including repairs made underwater.
In this guide, we’ll break down how each patch performed, what type of damage it’s best for, and what to watch out for when shopping. Whether you’re dealing with vinyl liner rips or small leaks near steps and seams, we’ll help you find the best pool patch for the job.
- BEST OVERALL: Gorilla Waterproof Patch and Seal Tape
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Intex Repair Patches
↓ Jump to Review - BEST UNDERWATER: Swimline Hydrotools Pool Repair Kit
↓ Jump to Review - BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Pool Above Heavy-Duty Vinyl Repair Patch Kit
↓ Jump to Review - BEST LEAK STOPPER: Marlig Industries Fix-A-Leak Pool and Spa Leak Sealer
↓ Jump to Review - BEST CRACK FILLER: Atlas Epoxybond Pool Putty
↓ Jump to Review - BEST PLASTER REPAIR: Pool Patch White Pool Plaster Repair Kit
↓ Jump to Review
Before You Buy a Pool Patch
According to some experts, natural evaporation means that the level of water in an outdoor pool can drop by as much as ½ inch a day. Anything more than that means there’s probably a leak. These must be dealt with quickly, because even small amounts of water seeping into the surrounding soil could compromise the structure of the entire pool.
If the leak is obvious, duct tape can often provide a temporary repair; it won’t last long, but it could give users time to find a permanent solution. If it isn’t clear where the water is escaping from, then the source of the leak must be identified. Several DIY methods are suggested online, though pool leak detection dye is perhaps the fastest.
Small amounts of damage can be repaired using one of the pool patches found in our top picks, but unfortunately, there are times when the split or tear is simply too large. Attempting to patch damage beyond the recommended size is likely to fail, and could end up being more expensive in the long run and potentially dangerous if the pool or liner splits or bursts. Overlapping several patches rarely works. DIY pool repair kits can be very effective, but sometimes calling in a professional is the only sensible option. Just keep in mind that some pool repairs can cost a significant amount of money.
Pool Patch Comparison
| Product | Type | Wet or dry application | Repair time |
| Gorilla Waterproof Patch and Seal Tape | Tape | Both | 2 minutes |
| Intex Repair Patches | Peel and stick | Dry | 30 minutes |
| Swimline Hydrotools Pool Repair Kit | Adhesive patch kit | Both | 24 hours |
| Pool Above Heavy-Duty Vinyl Repair Patch Kit | Adhesive patch kit | Both | 24 hours |
| Marlig Industries Fix-A-Leak Pool and Spa Leak Sealer | Liquid | Wet | 24 to 48 hours |
| Atlas Epoxybond Pool Putty | Putty | Both | Varies (see description) |
| Pool Patch White Pool Plaster Repair Kit | Plaster mix | Dry | 3 to 4 hours |
Our Top Picks
The following products represent what we believe to be the best pool patches on the market. There are products here that will repair everything from pinholes in vinyl inflatables to cracks in concrete pool surrounds.
Best Overall
Gorilla Waterproof Patch and Seal Tape
What We Like
- Sticks instantly, even underwater
- Thick, durable, and built to last
- Very simple to apply
What We Don’t Like
- Only available in white or black
- Super sticky roll needs careful storage
Product Specs
- Type: Tape
- Wet or dry application: Both
- Repair time: 2 minutes
Our Ratings
We’ve used a lot of adhesives over the years, and Gorilla consistently delivers—but this Waterproof Patch & Seal Tape might be one of their most impressive products yet. It’s incredibly thick and sticky—so sticky, in fact, that even the side of the roll started clinging to our workbench. We learned quickly to store it on its edge to avoid it gluing itself to whatever surface it’s sitting on.
For testing, we used it to patch a pool liner we purposely punctured. We cut a generous piece, peeled off the backing, and pressed it down right over the tear—no tools, prep, or drama. The tape grabbed immediately and sealed the leak on the spot. We didn’t even need to drain the pool—it works underwater and on wet surfaces. While Gorilla recommends a 24-hour cure time for best results, it felt secure almost instantly.
The bond is seriously strong. As long as the patch is big enough to cover the damage with some margin, it’s hard to see how a leak could get through. Our only complaint is the look: this stuff is bright white or black, and unless the liner is, too, the patch will definitely stand out. But for something this tough and easy to use, we can live with the slightly less-than-ideal aesthetic
What our tester says: “I can’t recommend this one enough. The tape is thick and sticky and easily handles most vinyl pool repairs you’ll ever encounter. As long as you can put up with the white color, this roll of tape will be your best friend in the summer.”—Paul Rankin, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Gorilla pool patches at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Best Bang For The Buck
Intex Repair Patches
What We Like
- Clear patches blend in with most liners
- Easy to cut and apply
- Great value for the price
- Instructions are printed on every patch
What We Don’t Like
- Needs a dry surface despite “wet” label
- Not flexible enough for some inflatables
- A bit small for larger tears
Product Specs
- Type: Peel and stick
- Wet or dry application: Dry
- Repair time: 30 minutes
Our Ratings
| Application | 5/5 | Functionality | 5/5 | Durability | 4.5/5 | Value | 5/5 |
Intex is one of the biggest names in the pool world, so we had high expectations, and their Repair Patches delivered. These are clear peel-and-stick patches (each measuring about 7.5 inches square), and they come six to a pack. That adds up to a lot of repair coverage for a relatively low cost.
We liked how easy they were to use. The patches were easy to cut and apply, and they adhered well right out of the pack. One thing to keep in mind: even though they’re often labeled as “wet” patches, they actually need a dry surface to stick properly. We used one on an inflatable pool and another on a vinyl liner above the waterline. Both held up great, though we wouldn’t use them for bigger tears—each patch is on the small side.
What really impressed us was the packaging. Every individual patch has clear instructions printed right on the backing. That’s a small touch, but a useful one, especially since most patch kits’ instructions are lost once the box is torn open. Overall, this is a solid, budget-friendly choice for quick, clean-looking repairs.
What our tester says: “I always love a company that thinks about the little details—it really makes their product stand out. These are simple little patches with clear instructions on each patch. Can’t get easier than that.”—Paul Rankin, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Intex pool liner patch at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Underwater
Swimline Hydrotools Pool Repair Kit
What We Like
- Virtually invisible once applied
- Strong, long-lasting bond
- Works on vinyl pools and inflatables
What We Don’t Like
- Messy glue with strong odor
- Takes 24 hours to cure
- Can be tricky to apply on vertical surfaces
Product Specs
- Type: Adhesive patch kit
- Wet or dry application: Both
- Repair time: 24 hours
Our Ratings
| Application | 5/5 | Functionality | 5/5 | Durability | 4.5/5 | Value | 5/5 |
The Swimline Hydrotools Pool Repair Kit isn’t the fastest option out there, but if you’re willing to take your time, it can be one of the most effective. This kit includes several clear vinyl patches, a tub of adhesive, and an applicator. Unlike peel-and-stick patches, this setup requires a bit more effort, but it also delivers a more permanent, nearly seamless result.
We used it to repair both a vinyl pool liner and an inflatable. First, we cut the patch to size, then applied the glue, which is very strong-smelling and tends to drip, so some caution is required. Outdoors, it wasn’t too bad, but indoors, we’d definitely want better ventilation. Once applied, the patch seemed to melt right into the liner. It basically became invisible and stuck solid. There’s no repositioning it, either; once it’s down, it’s down.
A few tips from our experience: Apply firm pressure and smooth out any air bubbles immediately, or else you’ll be left with a wrinkled surface. Also, it takes a full 24 hours to cure properly, and weighing it down while it sets will provide a better result, which can be difficult on vertical surfaces.
Get the Swimline vinyl pool patches at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Best Heavy-Duty
Pool Above Heavy-Duty Vinyl Repair Patch Kit
What We Like
- Thick, durable vinyl for strong, long-lasting repairs
- Can be used wet or dry
- Transparent with color options for a better match
What We Don’t Like
- Glue is runny and hard to control
- Patches curl and need to be weighed down
- Strong odor during application
Product Specs
- Type: Adhesive patch kit
- Wet or dry application: Both
- Repair time: 24 hours
Our Ratings
| Application | 3.5/5 | Functionality | 4/5 | Durability | 4.5/5 | Value | 3.8/5 |
The Pool Above Heavy-Duty Vinyl Repair Patch Kit looks promising right out of the box. These patches are made from thick, 1100D polyester canvas, the same rugged stuff used in backpacks and luggage. It definitely feels heavy-duty, which gives some peace of mind for bigger or high-stress repairs.
The kit includes a small tube of adhesive, an applicator, and eight 2-inch round patches. We liked that the vinyl is transparent (so that it blends into most surfaces), and with 20 colors available, users can likely find one that matches their pool. However, working with this one had a few quirks. The glue was very runny and harder to control compared to other kits, and the smell was strong—definitely something you’ll want to use outside.
The biggest challenge for us was how tightly the vinyl roll was wound. After cutting a patch, it kept curling back up and trying to lift off the surface, even after we’d applied the adhesive. The instructions do mention using a weight to keep it down, and I’d say that’s absolutely necessary. Once it cured, the patch held up well, but it definitely took more finesse than simpler kits.
Get the Pool Above swimming pool patches at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Leak Stopper
Marlig Industries Fix-A-Leak Pool and Spa Leak Sealer
What We Like
- Great for sealing hard-to-find or tiny leaks
- Works with any pool or spa material
- Easy to apply with proper prep
What We Don’t Like
- Temporary fix, not a permanent repair
- Requires warm-up before use
- Effectiveness depends on following instructions closely
Product Specs
- Type: Liquid
- Wet or dry application: Wet
- Repair time: 24 to 48 hours
Our Ratings
| Application | 4.5/5 | Functionality | 5/5 | Durability | 4/5 | Value | 4.3/5 |
This one’s not your typical patch. Marlig Fix-A-Leak is a liquid sealant that circulates through the pool or spa’s system. As it escapes through small leaks, it reacts with air and solidifies, sealing the problem from the inside out. We used it in a leaking hot tub, and two weeks later, the water level hadn’t dropped a bit.
What we like about this product is how easy it is to apply by following the directions closely. Warming the bottle up first is necessary (we let it sit in a bath of hot water for 30 minutes). Then pour it into the skimmer or directly into the water, depending on the pool setup. It works on pretty much any pool or spa material, including fiberglass, PVC, and vinyl, and can seal leaks up to ⅛ inch wide.
That being said, this isn’t a permanent fix. It’s more of a temporary solution—perfect for slow leaks or hard-to-find ones—but eventually, you’ll need to repair the source properly. Used with the right expectations, it’s a solid product that buys time without draining the pool or calling in a pro.
Get the Marlig Industries pool leak sealer at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Crack Filler
Atlas Epoxybond Pool Putty
What We Like
- Ideal for concrete, gunite, and fiberglass pools
- Strong, permanent repair once cured
- Can be applied underwater
- Easy to mold into cracks and gaps
What We Don’t Like
- Not for vinyl liners
- Tricky to keep in place while applying
- Slightly more expensive than other repair options
Product Specs
- Type: Putty
- Wet or dry application: Both
- Repair time: Varies (see description)
Our Ratings
| Application | 4/5 | Functionality | 5/5 | Durability | 5/5 | Value | 4.8/5 |
Atlas’s Epoxybond Pool Putty is a completely different beast from vinyl patches or liquid sealers. This is a two-part epoxy putty made for fixing cracks in concrete, gunite, or fiberglass pools, not vinyl liners. We used it to seal a hairline crack in a concrete pool, and it worked beautifully. Once it cured, it hardened like stone, and it felt permanent.
Using it felt more like doing a craft project than a repair. Mix the two components by hand, then mold and press the putty into the damaged area. It stays workable long enough to get it into the cracks, but it’s sticky, so it’s a bit of a fight to keep it in place, especially underwater. But once it’s set, it absolutely stays put.
In our test, the underwater application was surprisingly smooth, and the putty stuck well, even when we applied it by hand while submerged. Curing time can be a few hours, depending on temperature, but with a bit of heat (a hair dryer does the trick), it can set in as little as 20 minutes. (Of course, you’ll need to drain the pool to do this.) It’s a little pricier than some of the patch kits, but it’s also solving a different problem—this is the go-to for hard-surface cracks, not vinyl tears.
Get the Atlas pool crack filler at Amazon.
Best Plaster Repair
Pool Patch White Pool Plaster Repair Kit
What We Like
- Mixes without much fuss
- Instructions are easy to follow
- Brief curing period
What We Don’t Like
- Only available in white, which may stand out
- Leftovers cannot be stored; must use immediately
Product Specs
- Type: Plaster mix
- Wet or dry application: Dry
- Repair time: 3 to 4 hours
Our Ratings
| Application | 4.5/5 | Functionality | 5/5 | Durability | 4.5/5 | Value | 4.3/5 |
If a plaster pool has cracks, chips, or small pits, Pool Patch is a solid DIY option for restoring it to a smooth finish. We used this cement and acrylic repair mix to patch up some rough spots and small cracks in an older plaster pool, and we were impressed by how easy it was to work with.
Mixing was straightforward—just follow the directions and it’s ready to go. The putty-like consistency made it easy to trowel into cracks and over damaged spots. It cured quickly, too, hardening up within 3 to 4 hours. The repair felt solid and seamless to the touch.
There are a couple of trade-offs, though. First, the white color can be a challenge, as it really stood out against the blue-tinted plaster in our pool. Pool Patch doesn’t seem to offer any color options or separate tints, so don’t expect an invisible repair unless the existing pool color is white. Second, once the patch material is mixed, the clock is ticking: There’s no storing leftovers, so if there are multiple areas that need repair, it’s best to prep them all before mixing the material.
Get the Pool Patch pool plaster at Amazon (1.5 pounds) or The Home Depot (50 pounds).
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Pool Patches
| Products tested | 8 |
| Time spent testing | 2 weeks |
| Tests performed | 5 to 6 |
| Price range | $5 to $30 |
We began by researching more than a dozen popular pool patch products across a range of types, from peel-and-stick vinyl kits to epoxy putties and liquid sealants. To decide which to select for hands-on testing, we evaluated each option based on what we could gather about its ease of application, durability, material compatibility, drying/curing time, and overall value. We also factored in brand reputation and customer reviews to gauge long-term satisfaction and support.
For hands-on testing, we created punctures in a small vinyl pool and used each vinyl patch kit to seal the damage, noting how quickly and effectively each repair went into place. After waiting a few days for all the repairs to cure, we spent a weekend playing in the pool with our Australian Shepherd (who tried her best to break the pool, so the repairs took a beating).
We also applied liquid and putty products to real-world pool leaks, including cracks in concrete pools and minor leaks in inflatables and hot tubs. We scored each product on repair performance, ease of use, clarity of instructions, and finish quality (e.g., visibility of the patch). Our goal was to simulate realistic DIY repairs and highlight the most effective solutions for the widest variety of pool problems.
| Product | Application | Functionality | Durability | Value | |
| Gorilla Waterproof Patch and Seal Tape | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | |
| Intex Repair Patches | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4.5/5 | 5/5 | |
| Swimline Hydrotools Pool Repair Kit | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.8/5 | |
| Pool Above Heavy-Duty Vinyl Repair Patch Kit | 3.5/5 | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 3.8/5 | |
| Marlig Industries Fix-A-Leak Pool and Spa Leak Sealer | 4.5/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 4.3/5 | |
| Atlas Epoxybond Pool Putty | 4/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4.8/5 | |
| Pool Patch White Pool Plaster Repair Kit | 4.5/5 | 5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.3/5 |
What to Consider When Choosing a Pool Patch
There are a number of things to bear in mind before choosing a pool patch. In some cases, the decision will be easy because there is one type that suits a particular kind of damage or surface. In other cases, there might be several solutions.
Type
Peel-and-stick vinyl patches are probably the most popular type of pool repair, and they couldn’t be simpler to apply. Just remove the backing and hold it over the damaged area for a few minutes. In some cases, it isn’t even necessary to empty the pool. Several waterproof tapes have similar properties. Heavy-duty vinyl patches typically require the application of adhesive separately.
Very small holes can often be repaired with “leak stoppers” that come in liquid form and are poured into the pool. They follow the flow of water towards the leak, then react with the air outside to form a plug. These products are nontoxic, and any residue is eventually flushed as the pool water changes.
Cracks in fiberglass pools can be fixed with two-part epoxy resin, which can also be used on concrete. Specific plaster repair products are also widely available.
Wet or Dry Application
The quickest way to repair a pool and get back to enjoying the water is usually by using a patch that can be applied without draining the pool. However, it’s important to read the description carefully. Many products are labeled “works underwater,” but in the case of some tapes and epoxies, that means that they are unaffected by water once fully cured, not that they can be applied to a pool that still contains water.
Pool patches and other repair products that must be applied to a dry surface will vary in terms of curing time. Some of them will put the pool out of action for 8 hours or more, so it may be worth leaving them overnight.
Size
The size of the repair required will significantly impact the pool patch chosen. Most peel-and-stick patches are precut, which gives a clear maximum. For larger repairs, a kit with separate patch and adhesive is usually required. Tape has a maximum width, but it can be cut to length, so it may be more appropriate for long, thin tears.
Leak stoppers have a maximum hole size; in the case of the Marlig Industries pool leak sealer described in this guide, it’s ⅛ inch.
Epoxy is usually forced into cracks to fill them. We couldn’t find coverage details, so some guesswork is needed, but products are available in various-size sticks or two-part packs. Plaster mixes also come in multiple sizes, though in this case, coverage information is usually supplied.
It is also briefly worth considering color, as it can be difficult to find a match when trying to patch above-ground pools or their inground counterparts. Clear versions do quite a good job of hiding repairs, and some manufacturers produce a few colored options. The heavy-duty patches we feature are unusual in that they’re offered in 20 different shades.
Tips for Using a Pool Patch
For best results from any pool patch, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions as closely as possible. Failing to read instructions carefully can mean missing a key element, which can lead to the eventual failure of the repair. In addition to reading about how the patch works, useful videos may also be available online.
While each pool patch is different, the following steps generally apply:
- Make sure the patch is large enough for the repair. It’s not advisable to overlap pool patches, as these areas become a point of weakness.
- Dirt, sand, and other contaminants will inhibit adhesion, so make sure the area around the repair is clean—even when patching underwater.
- Follow all safety precautions carefully. Some adhesives can be harmful if inhaled. Be particularly cautious when using an underwater patch kit. Do not try to make the repair by holding your breath. Use a snorkel or breathing apparatus if you are qualified, or leave the job to a professional.
FAQs
The article above provides comprehensive information about the many types of pool patches. However, those who want more information may find it below in the answers to some of the most common questions about these products.
There are several ways to patch a hole in a swimming pool, depending on the pool material, the type of damage, and where in the pool it occurs. No one product is right for all repairs. The information above looks at the different methods to help you find the best way to patch the hole in your pool.
Yes, most pool patches would be considered long lasting. Many are made of the same kind of material as the pool itself, or the pool liner, and the adhesives they use form a very strong bond. This can provide a life expectancy comparable to that of the pool material, which in most cases is 10 to 15 years.
Duct tape can provide a temporary repair without using a patch kit, though it may not last very long. For a more permanent solution, we recommend one of the pool patching methods listed here.
Peel-and-stick products simply require removing the backing before application (some even work underwater). Leak sealers “find” small holes and then set in contact with the outside air to form a stopper. Epoxy solutions come in two parts that form a bond when mixed. Each has specific uses, as discussed in our article.
No, all pool patches are not the same. There are various types and sizes to fix all kinds of pool damage. We intentionally selected different types of patches to suit a variety of needs.
The best way to find a leak in your pool is to look for air bubbles, soft spots, or use food coloring near seams and suspected areas to spot where water is escaping.
Yes, many vinyl patch kits and sealants are designed for underwater use and can be applied without draining the pool.
Meet the Tester
Paul Rankin is a DIY writer and hands-on product tester with years of experience reviewing tools and home repair kits that solve real-world problems. For this article, he took a straightforward, results-driven approach to testing, helping pool owners find repair products that actually work when they’re needed most.
Additional research provided by Bob Beacham
