Surfboard Repair Kits
It can be tough out there on the water at times and these surfboard repair kits give you the right tools to make repairs when needed. No matter what kind of surfboard ding you’ve experienced it’s always important to have them fixed as quickly as possible.
We’ve got a growing range of surfboard repair kits so you can keep your board in great condition before you head back to catch some more waves.
A Beginner’s Guide to Surfboard Repair: Fix It Like a Pro (or at Least Try To)
Dings, cracks, or punctures happen to every surfboard eventually. Knowing how to fix them is essential. Quick fixes are handy, but knowing when to call a professional is key.
Start with a Clean and Dry Surfboard
Before repairing your board, always clean it thoroughly. Use fresh water to remove salt, sand, and debris. Let it dry completely. This prevents water from being trapped inside the board, which can cause more damage later.
Temporary Fixes for Emergency Surfboard Repair Situations
If you’re at the beach and your board gets dinged, don’t panic. Wax can be used as a short-term sealant. It won’t last long, but it keeps water out during a session. Another trick is duct tape. It creates a better seal than wax, especially on larger dings. For cracks or punctures, try stickers or waterproof tape for a tighter hold. These methods won’t hold for long but can get you back in the water fast.
Assess the Damage Before Choosing a Method
Minor dings are cosmetic and easy to fix. Deeper cracks, especially ones exposing foam, need immediate attention. If your board feels heavier after a surf, water has entered the foam core. Always dry it completely before repairs. Use sunlight or a fan. Never rush this step.
Simple DIY Repairs at Home
For small dings and cracks, a ding repair kit does the trick. Most kits contain sandpaper, resin, fiberglass cloth, and a mixing stick. Sand the damaged area gently. Remove loose fiberglass or jagged edges. Clean it again. Mix resin as directed. Apply it over the damaged spot using a stick or spreader. If needed, lay fiberglass cloth over the resin before it cures. Let it harden fully. After it dries, sand it down until smooth.
UV-cure resin is perfect for sunny-day fixes. Squeeze it on the ding, smooth it out, and let the sun do the work. It cures within minutes in bright conditions. Ideal for minor dings when you're in a hurry.
When to Seek Professional Repairs
Not all surfboard repairs are DIY material. If your board has a snapped nose or tail, let an expert handle it. Delamination, where the fiberglass separates from the foam, also needs professional tools and resins. Repairs involving fin boxes or leash plugs can be tricky. Misaligned parts can affect performance in the water.
Professionals use high-grade resins, vacuum bagging systems, and precision sanding tools. They ensure your board stays light and performs like new. If you love your board and want it to last, a repair shop is often worth the cost.
Preventing Future Damage
Always use a board bag when transporting your surfboard. Keep it out of direct sunlight for long periods. Sunlight can weaken the fiberglass and cause discoloration. Rinse your board after every surf. Salt can corrode plugs and hardware over time.
Try not to drop your board on hard surfaces. Even a short fall can cause pressure dings. When storing it, lean it gently against a wall or keep it lying flat.
A Final Word for the Beginner Board Doctor
Repairs are part of surfboard ownership. A well-maintained board lasts longer and rides better. Start with small fixes. You’ll get better with practice. For big problems, let someone with experience step in.
Even if you only master wax-and-tape fixes, that’s a step forward. You’ll surf with more confidence knowing you’ve got your board’s back—literally.
