The Ultimate Guide to Surfboard Maintenance: Tips and Tricks to Keep Your Board in Top Condition

Carles Carrera

For any wave rider, their surfboard is a sacred object. It's more than just a piece of equipment; it's the key to the ocean's playground, a symbol of freedom, and often, a pretty significant investment. That's why keeping it in top shape is so important. This guide is all about surfboard maintenance, from cleaning and storage to repair. Let's get to it!

Cleaning Your Surfboard: Busting The Salt and Sand

Did you know that leaving your surfboard caked in saltwater and sand can slowly cause damage? Surfboard Cleaning is your first step in surfboard maintenance. The basics are pretty simple:

1. Rinse with fresh water after every session.
2. Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the surface.
3. Let it air dry in the shade - direct sunlight isn't your surfboard's best friend.

Rinse your surfboard after every session


Wax builds up over time and needs to be removed every now and then (Oh Wait, are you still waxing? We only design, produce and sell alternatives to wax and eva pads). The best method is to scrape off the majority of the wax, then use a little bit of coconut oil or specially formulated wax remover to get rid of any residual stickiness.

Store It Right: How to Extend the Life of Your Surfboard

When you’re not out there chasing waves, Surfboard Storage is crucial. It's not just about throwing your board in the garage. Consider the following:

- Avoid direct sunlight: UV rays can damage your board's deck and bleach the color.
- Keep it cool: Heat can cause delamination or the outer shell to separate from the foam core.
- Don't let it rest on its fins: This can lead to fin box damage. Instead, store your surfboard either upright or on its rail, using a padded rack.

Surfboards on racks

Fix It Up: Surfboard Repair Tips

Even with the best care, surfboards can get damaged. Dings, cracks, and breaks - they're all part of a surfboard's life. When it comes to Surfboard Repair, it's important to act fast. Water seeping into the foam core can cause serious damage.

Small dings can usually be fixed at home with a little resin and fiberglass cloth. More significant damage might need professional attention. Either way, don't let a ding go unchecked!. At RSPro we take surfboard protection very seriously. 

FAQs

1. How often should I clean my surfboard?
After every surf session, rinse your surfboard with fresh water. If you use surf wax (and then you're not our friend ;-), a deep clean to remove wax should be done every few months, or when the wax starts to get dirty and lose its grip.

2. Where is the best place to store my surfboard?
Store your surfboard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A garage, basement, or dedicated surfboard bag are all good options.

3. Can I repair my surfboard myself?
Yes, small dings can be repaired at home. However, for larger damage or for high-performance surfboards, it's best to take it to a professional. At RSPro we manufacture the Surf Ding Patch as a quick fix for small dings, scratches and cracks.

Conclusion

Surfboard Maintenance doesn't have to be a chore. In fact, it's just another way of respecting the waves, the sport, and the incredible piece of craftsmanship that your surfboard represents. So, take the extra few minutes to clean, store, and repair your board right. It'll repay you with better performance and a longer lifespan, so you can keep catching those waves!

Remember, treat your surfboard like the treasured item it is, and it will provide you with countless hours of joy on the water. Surf's up, friends!

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