How to Repair Surfboard Fiberglass

If you use and abuse your surfboard, sooner or later you'll need to make a major repair. This usually entails repairing the fiberglass of the board. It may seem like an extremely daunting task, but it is fairly easy and anyone can do it with the right tools.

Things You'll Need

  • 100-, 250-, and 400-grit sandpaper
  • Resin and hardener
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Acid brush
  • Fiberglass cloth
  • Cellophane wrap
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the area with water to remove and major dirt and sand particles. Make sure that the area is completely dry.

    • 2

      Sand down the fiberglass that is sticking out. Use 250-grit sandpaper or stronger to create a rough area that will help the resin adhere to the board.

    • 3

      Mix the resin. It should have a hardener and instructions on mixing the two together. Follow the instructions carefully and make sure the resin matches the color of the board.

    • 4

      Apply the resin to the damaged area, using the acid brush.

    • 5

      Cut three fiberglass cloth sections of slightly smaller size than each other. Your largest sheet should be a little bit smaller than the break in your board.

    • 6

      Place the pieces of fiberglass cloth on a thin layer of resin over the break.

    • 7

      Blot the fiberglass with the acid brush until the fiberglass is completely saturated. Do not soak the fiberglass.

    • 8

      Place a sheet of cellophane over the the area and make sure there are no air bubbles. Allow to dry for more than 24 hours without sunlight.

    • 9

      Sand the repaired area to return the board to its originally smooth surface. Start with 100-grit sandpaper and switch to 250-grit sandpaper. Finish it off with a 400-grit wet sand until the damaged area is smooth.