After buying a surfboard, it’s best if you know how well to maintain it. A well-maintained surfboard will serve you better for longer. When using a surfboard, it’s prone to damages from the waves, sun, and salt. Although these damages are inevitable, these maintenance tips will help delay them.
Invest In a Surfboard Bag
Keeping your board in a surfboard bag is one of the best ways to keep it safe. Since a surfboard is fragile, the bag helps protect It against dings and scratches. Prolonged exposure to the sun causes yellowing. The wax also melts. Put the board in the bag as soon as you’re done riding or at least in the shade.
Cleaning
Clean your surfboard as you soon as you leave the ocean. Use fresh water to get rid of the salty water that can damage your surfboard by deteriorating the resin reducing its lifespan. Clean the surfboard button to make it more hydro-dynamic. Optimal performance is possible when the board bottom is free from wax or dirt. Remember, to always dry your board with a towel before storing it in a surfboard bag.
Dings
Repair the dings as soon as they appear. Cracks and dings can weaken your surfboard if left unattended. They can allow the UV rays leaving it open for delamination. When
water is permitted in the surf, it gets heavier, becoming harder to ride. Visually inspect your surfboard and rails for any dings. Run your fingers up and down the sides and through the top and bottom surfaces.
Waxing
It’s a good routine to take all the wax off and apply a new coat once a month. You can scrap the wax to check for dings. The type of wax to use depend on the weather and water. When the wax gets dirty, sand gets in making it lose its traction.
Temperatures
Avoid keeping your surfboard in extreme temperatures. It’s not safe to leave your surfing board on a truck bed or in a roasting car during summer. It expands and contracts in extreme temperature change, leading to delamination.
Dragging
Don’t drag your surfboard; instead, carry it. When you drag your board in the sand, the tiny rocks can cause serious damages on your board.
Transportation
When transporting your surfboard with a car, you can apply a few tips to avoid damages. Avoid overtightening the straps, keep adequate space between the back and front racks, and watch your speed as the large board on top of your car can make you encounter wind shear.
Engage other local surfers to learn on the surf spots, the shallowness of the reefs, how the waves break, and any other important issue to avoid dings.