How to Check for Damage on Your Surfboard

Surfing involves more than just riding and splashing through the waves; maintenance and upkeep of surfboards are necessary. Your board takes a lot of impact from water, your body weight and structures such as reefs, rocks and sand. After each surfing trip, clean the board and inspect thoroughly for damages so you can repair and prevent further damage.

Things You'll Need

  • Water
  • Towel
  • Wax scraper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare your surfboard for a thorough damage inspection. Rinse off saltwater, scrape off the wax and remove any stickers. Wash it with water and dry it with a towel.

    • 2

      Look for surface damage throughout the board. Search for chips, cracks, scratches and pressure dings. Pressure dings appear as circular dents with minimal cracking in the circle or in the area surrounding it. If you see any tears, look for visible foam and underlying damage.

    • 3

      Search for discoloration. Discoloration can happen due to sun damage or sunscreen stains. Some sunscreens can affect the coatings of your board, and UV rays can cause yellow discoloring on white boards.

    • 4

      Check for water damage. Water can seep into surface damage, causing soft areas and rotting foam inside the board.

    • 5

      Inspect the fins for any cracks and tears. Look at the fin boxes if the fins are removable.