Deformed mask skirt

Question
I have an old mask that was stored improperly, and now the skirt is deformed and will not seal.  Is there any way to repair it, or is it possible to get a replacement skirt?  I'm not sure of the brand (the only identifying info on it is an "SP" on the bridge of the nose), but I have been able to take the skirt off (mask apart) without breaking anything.

Answer
Hey Rubberband,

Somehow I don't think that's your name but since you signed your question that way, I'll go along!!

I'm assuming that your mask skirt is made of silicone.  Older masks were commonly made of neoprene or natural rubber but that would have to be a really OLD mask.  The bottom line is that there is no way to return your mask skirt to it's original perfect contour.  Heating the skirt may allow you to improve the shape but you have to be very careful not to overheat it.  The results will probably be disappointing for you.  To heat the skirt, immerse it in near-boiling water and test to determine when it becomes soft enough to straighten by hand.

Replacement skirts are generally available for name-brand masks for a few years after their introduction.  You would have to contact a dealer for the brand of mask you have.  The "SP" you mentioned is probably not a manufacturer mark.  The first name that comes to mind is Scuba Pro but they typically print the whole name and not just the initials.

In the interest of saving time, trouble and money, I'd suggest just replacing the mask with a new one.  A new skirt, if available, will cost almost as much as the entire mask.  Reassembled masks also have an annoying tendency to leak.

So...give it a try if you like but be prepared to spring for a replacement mask.

Sincerely,
Mike Giles
Mike's Dive Center
mikescuba.com