A surfboard isn’t just a piece of equipment — it’s a trusted companion that rides with you through every swell, wipeout, and breakthrough session. But no matter how careful you are, dings happen. From minor pressure dents to cracks from reef encounters, damage is part of a surfboard’s story.
Knowing how to maintain and repair dings properly not only extends your board’s life but also ensures performance and safety in the water. Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your board watertight, strong, and ready for the next session.
Understanding Surfboard Dings
A ding is any crack, dent, or puncture that breaks your board’s protective fiberglass or epoxy layer. Once that seal is broken, water can seep into the foam core, leading to:
- Waterlogging: Adds unwanted weight and slows performance.
- Delamination: Layers of fiberglass separate from the foam, weakening structure.
- Discoloration and soft spots: Long-term moisture damage that’s hard to reverse.
Not all dings are equal — identifying what type you’re dealing with is key to choosing the right repair.
Common Types of Dings
- Pressure Dents: Small depressions from normal use — usually cosmetic unless cracks form.
- Cracks and Punctures: Breaks in the fiberglass layer, often from impact or rocks.
- Rail Dings: Damage along the edge; easily waterlogged if left unsealed.
- Fin Box or Leash Plug Damage: Often more complex, requiring resin reinforcement.
- Delamination: Bubbles or lifting fiberglass due to trapped moisture or heat exposure.
Each type demands different attention — from a quick patch to a full resin cure.
Step 1: Assess the Damage
Before you grab the resin, inspect carefully:
- Press gently around the area. If it’s soft or bubbles appear, the foam may be waterlogged.
- Look for hairline cracks — even small ones can allow water in.
- Smell the board. A musty odor often means water has been trapped inside.
If you suspect major damage or water inside, don’t surf it until it’s repaired. Saltwater inside the foam can cause irreversible damage.
Step 2: Drain and Dry the Board
If your board has absorbed water:
- Open the ding slightly to let trapped moisture escape.
- Place it in a dry, shaded area — never in direct sunlight (heat can warp resin).
- Allow at least 24–48 hours for drying, depending on size and saturation.
You can speed things up using a small fan or gentle airflow, but avoid heaters — they can melt the foam.
Step 3: Prepare the Surface
A clean, sanded surface ensures your repair resin bonds correctly.
- Rinse and dry the area completely.
- Sand around the ding with 80–120 grit sandpaper, creating a rough texture.
- Remove any loose fiberglass or debris.
- Wipe clean with acetone or rubbing alcohol to remove oils.
Preparation is half the job — a rushed surface cleanup can lead to weak or uneven repairs.
Step 4: Choose the Right Repair Material
The resin you use depends on your board type:
- PU (Polyurethane Foam + Polyester Resin): Traditional boards. Use polyester resin for best adhesion.
- EPS (Epoxy Foam + Epoxy Resin): Modern epoxy boards. Use epoxy resin only — polyester will melt the foam.
If you’re unsure which type you have, check your board specs or test a tiny spot inside the fin box. When in doubt, go with epoxy — it bonds to both materials safely.
Step 5: Apply the Resin
Small dings:
- Mix resin and hardener per the instructions.
- Fill the ding using a popsicle stick or applicator.
- Smooth evenly to match the contour of your board.
- Cover with a clear plastic sheet or tape to help it cure flat.
- Let it set completely — typically 30 minutes to several hours depending on the resin.
Larger repairs:
- Add a layer of fiberglass cloth over the filled area before applying resin.
- Gently press it into shape, then coat evenly.
- Sand down smooth once cured and finish with a gloss coat for a clean look.
Patience pays off here — a rushed cure can crack or bubble.
Step 6: Sand and Polish
Once fully hardened:
- Start with 120-grit sandpaper and move up to 400-grit for smoothness.
- Wet-sand the area for a seamless blend.
- Optionally apply a UV-stable polish or surfboard gloss to restore shine.
When done right, the repair should feel flush, smooth, and watertight — almost invisible to the touch.
Step 7: Prevention and Maintenance
The best repair is the one you never need. Preventing dings comes down to habits and awareness:
1. Handle with care: Avoid leaning your board against walls or car doors — it’s a recipe for rail dings.
2. Use a board bag: It protects from bumps, heat, and sun damage.
3. Rinse with fresh water: Salt accelerates fiberglass degradation.
4. Avoid extreme heat: Leaving your board in a hot car or direct sun can cause delamination.
5. Regular inspections: Check rails, fins, and deck after each session. Early fixes are easier and cleaner.
A well-maintained board can last for years and surf like new every session.
When to Seek Professional Repair
Some damage is best left to experts — especially if:
- The foam core is exposed or crushed.
- There’s extensive delamination or multiple cracks.
- The fin box or stringer is compromised.
A professional repair may cost $40–$100 but restores strength and aesthetics better than a rushed DIY fix. Many surf shops offer same-day or next-day ding repair services.
Eco-Friendly Repair Options
Sustainability in surfing starts with extending gear lifespan. When repairing:
- Use bio-based or low-VOC resins when available.
- Recycle or properly dispose of resin waste.
- Choose solar-cure kits (like Solarez) that harden in sunlight, reducing chemical use.
Each repair keeps one less board in a landfill and one more wave within reach.
Final Thoughts
Every ding tells a story — a shallow reef scrape, a close call on a heavy drop, or just a day of stoke gone wild. What matters is how you respond. Maintaining and repairing your board keeps it alive, performing, and ready for the next chapter.
A little time with resin and sandpaper not only saves money but deepens your connection to your gear. After all, a well-cared-for board isn’t just equipment — it’s a reflection of how deeply you respect the ocean and the craft that carries you across it.