Do inflatables deteriorate in storage

[2copplane]

Fascinating subject .

I’ve two inflatable dinghies one virtually new and an old Wetline showing first signs of of the fabric perishing. I may not need the new one for several years so am I best selling it or dry storing it until needed? I’m hoping it is just uv that wrecks inflatables and it won’t deterioate if stored?

Happy to come back in 10years with my findings.

 

[pvb]

Liferafts are inflatables, and they deteriorate, despite being shielded from UV and the atmosphere.

 

[Pagetslady]

Mine is like new and it's been on davits on the back of my like new boat for years. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Mike

 

[Momac]

Use the new dinghy and sell the old dinghy ?

 

[Uricanejack]

I don't know about newer materials but the older materials while they can last for a very long time. would deteriorate when stored particularly if near to any heat source.

 

[greeny]

in my experience its not been the fabric that's deteriorated but the glued seams have started to come apart. Probably because of them being stored folded in the bag with the seams folded and under stress.

 

[johnalison]

We sold our old Redcrest after 26yrs. Apart from replacement valves, it was almost as good as new except that the black rubber strake left marks.

 

[Bajansailor]

We have a Redcrest (made of hypalon) that is at least 25 years old now, and the only maintenance it has needed has been re the valves.
I bought a 2 metre Wetline dinghy (made of pvc) about 12 years ago - looked after it well, kept it inflated all the time, no un-necessary exposure to the sun - yet it literally just fell to pieces a couple of years ago.