Surfboard Care and Maintenance: 8 Tips to Extend the Life of Your Board
Your surfboard is more than just a piece of equipment—it’s your partner in catching waves and sharing the stoke of surfing. Whether you’ve just picked up your first board or have a collection of them, taking care of your board is key to ensuring it stays in great shape and lasts for many surf sessions to come. While boards are designed to handle the ocean, a little maintenance and care go a long way in preserving their performance.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through some simple and practical tips to help extend the life of your surfboard. Let’s dive in!
1. Rinse Your Board ...
... After Every Session!
It’s easy to finish a great surf session and toss your board into the car without a second thought. However, rinsing your board with fresh water after every use is one of the simplest ways to keep it in good condition. Saltwater, while natural, is surprisingly harsh on surfboards. Over time, it can cause your board’s materials to deteriorate, especially the fiberglass and resin.
Give your board a quick rinse with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and any grime that may have accumulated during your session. You don’t need a fancy setup—just a hose at home or a beach shower will do the trick. Wipe it down with a soft cloth afterward, and you’re good to go!
2. Store Your Board Properly
Proper storage is a game-changer when it comes to surfboard care. When your board isn’t in use, keeping it out of direct sunlight and extreme temperatures will prevent damage. The sun’s UV rays can weaken the fiberglass, discolor the board, and cause the foam inside to deteriorate. Similarly, high heat can cause the foam core to expand, leading to bubbles or “delamination” (when the top layer of your board separates from the foam underneath).
Here are a few tips for safe storage:
- Optimal Location: It's best to store your board indoors in a cool, dry area. If inside storage isn't an option, find a shady spot outdoors to prevent sun damage.
- Utilize a Board Bag: Consider using a board bag for added protection, especially if storing your board outside or in the garage. This helps safeguard against scratches, dings, and weather elements.
- Avoid Vertical Storage: If you need to store your board upright, ensure it's not leaning against hard surfaces that could cause pressure dings. Storing it flat or on a rack is preferable.
3. Repair Dings Right Away
Even the most cautious surfers may eventually damage their boards – it's a common occurrence! Whether it's from an accidental drop, hitting a reef, or colliding with someone in the lineup, dings are a natural part of surfing. The crucial step is to deal with them promptly to prevent water from entering the board.
If you notice a ding or crack, make sure to thoroughly dry your board and repair it without delay. Surfboard ding repair kits are readily available at most surf shops, or you can seek assistance from a local shaper or repair expert for more extensive damage. Neglecting a ding can lead to water infiltration, which may weaken the foam core and affect the board's performance.
4. Wax On, ...
... Wax Off (and Clean Regularly)
Waxing your board is crucial for grip, but accumulated old and dirty wax can affect performance gradually. Consider cleaning off the old wax every few months (or more frequently if you surf often) to maintain optimal performance.
Here's a simple guide:
- Melt the wax: Leave your board in the sun for a few minutes to soften the wax. Be careful not to leave it out too long!
- Scrape it off: Use a wax comb or plastic scraper to remove the wax in long strokes.
- Wipe it down: For a thorough clean, wipe your board with a bit of coconut oil or a surf-specific wax remover to get any residue off.
After cleaning, apply fresh wax according to the water temperature of the surf spot (warm, tropical, or cold) for ideal performance.
5. Protect Your Board During Transport
Surfboards are surprisingly fragile, and transporting them without adequate protection can result in dings and scratches even before you get to the water. Whether you're off to the local break or a road trip, taking a few precautions will ensure your board stays safe.
- Opt for a board bag: Investing in a padded surfboard bag is crucial. It shields your board from scratches, dings, and sun damage while in transit, especially essential when flying.
- Avoid stacking boards: When transporting multiple boards, refrain from stacking them directly on top of each other. Use padding like towels or foam between boards to prevent pressure damage.
- Secure it properly: If using roof racks, ensure the board is securely strapped down, avoiding excessive tension that could distort the board. Always use appropriate surfboard straps and steer clear of bungee cords, as they may break.
6. Rotate Your Fins Regularly
Your fins play a crucial role in your board’s performance, so it’s worth giving them some attention every now and then. Check your fins regularly to ensure they’re securely attached and not damaged. If you’re using removable fins (like FCS or Futures), it’s a good idea to rotate or swap them occasionally to prevent wear on the fin box.
Also, if you’re transporting your board or storing it for a while, consider removing the fins altogether to prevent damage.
7. Avoid Dragging Your Board
Dragging your board along the sand or shore when going to or from a session might seem convenient, but it's best to avoid it! This action can lead to minor scratches or weaken the board gradually. It's recommended to carry your board either under your arm (if it's light) or with assistance from a friend, especially for larger boards such as longboards.
8. Keep It Out of the Car
We’ve all done it: left our board in the car after a surf session. However, the inside of a car can get incredibly hot, especially on a sunny day, and prolonged exposure to that heat can damage your board. If you have to leave your board in the car for a short time, crack the windows or park in the shade. But your best bet? Take it out as soon as you can.
Conclusion: A Little Care Goes a Long Way
Your surfboard is not just a financial investment but also a source of joy in the water. By adhering to these straightforward care and maintenance guidelines, you can preserve your board's condition for years to come, ensuring it remains your go-to for catching those ideal waves. With some tender loving care, your board will stand by you through numerous surf sessions, enabling you to fully enjoy your time in the ocean! 🌊
