• ASM Staff
• • Oct 31, 2022
  • 3 min read

DIY Ding Repair for Your Surfboard: Keep Riding the Waves

Surfboards are more than just equipment; they’re an extension of a surfer’s soul. Unfortunately, the thrill of surfing often comes with the occasional ding or crack on your board.

These imperfections not only affect your board’s performance but can also lead to more significant damage if left unattended.

The good news is that you can perform DIY ding repair to keep your surfboard in top shape. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to fix minor dings and get you back on the waves.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:

1. Sandpaper: Various grits, including coarse (around 60-80 grit), medium (around 150-220 grit), and fine (around 400-600 grit).
2. Solvent: Acetone or rubbing alcohol for cleaning.
3. Resin: Epoxy resin or polyester resin, depending on your board’s construction.
4. Hardener: Compatible with the chosen resin.
5. Fiberglass Cloth: Lightweight fiberglass cloth for reinforcement.
6. Mixing Cups and Sticks: Disposable containers and sticks for mixing resin and hardener.
7. Razor Blade: For trimming excess material.
8. Tape: Masking tape or duct tape.
9. Sanding Block: To ensure even sanding.
10. Safety Gear: Gloves, eye protection, and a well-ventilated workspace.

Step-by-Step DIY Ding Repair

1. Assess the Damage

Start by examining the ding closely. Determine if it’s a minor crack, a puncture, or a deeper cut. Knowing the extent of the damage will help you prepare for the repair.

2. Clean the Ding

Clean the damaged area with acetone or rubbing alcohol to remove any wax, dirt, or debris. Ensure that the area is completely dry before proceeding.

3. Sand the Area

Use coarse sandpaper (60-80 grit) to roughen the area around the ding. This will help the resin adhere better. Feather the edges of the ding so that the repair blends seamlessly with the rest of the board.

4. Cut and Fit Fiberglass Cloth

If the ding is deep or has created a hole, cut a piece of lightweight fiberglass cloth slightly larger than the damaged area. Ensure it fits snugly within the ding.

5. Mix Resin and Hardener

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix the resin and hardener in a disposable container. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is consistent. Work quickly, as epoxy resin can set fast.

6. Apply Resin

Apply a thin layer of the mixed resin to the ding, making sure it penetrates the damaged area. If you’re using a piece of fiberglass cloth, lay it over the wet resin and saturate it with more resin. Use a plastic scraper or a piece of cardboard to smooth the surface and remove any excess resin.

7. Let It Cure

Allow the repair to cure according to the resin’s instructions. This usually takes several hours, depending on the type of resin and hardener used. Ensure the board is placed on a level surface during curing.

8. Sand and Shape

Once the resin has fully cured, use medium-grit sandpaper (150-220 grit) to sand the repair area until it’s smooth and even with the rest of the board. Follow up with fine-grit sandpaper (400-600 grit) for a polished finish.

9. Trim Excess Material

Use a razor blade to trim any excess fiberglass or hardened resin around the repair. Be careful not to scratch the surrounding area of the board.

10. Finish and Wax

Finish the repair by applying a coat of surfboard wax over the fixed area to ensure smooth water flow. Your board is now ready to hit the waves once again.

Note

While this guide covers DIY repair for minor dings, more extensive or structural damage may require professional repair. Regularly inspect your board for dings, and address them promptly to extend the life of your beloved surfboard. With the right tools, materials, and a bit of patience, you can keep your surfboard in excellent condition and continue riding the waves with confidence.