How to Repair a Fiberglass Surfboard Like a Pro

A cracked or dinged surfboard doesn’t have to signal the end of its wave-riding days. Repairing your board at home can save money, extend its lifespan, and give you the satisfaction of fixing something with your own hands. Whetherit’s a minor ding or a more serious crack, learning how to repair a fiberglass surfboard is a valuable skill every surfer and DIY enthusiast should know.  

This guide will walk you through all the necessary steps, from gathering materials to adding thefinishing touches, so your board is ready to catch the next wave.  

Materials Needed for Fiberglass Surfboard Repair  

Before you begin,it’s crucial to have the right tools and materials ready.Here’s whatyou’ll need for a successful repair job:  

Tools  

Materials  

Safety Equipment  

Pro Tip: Ensuring you have high-quality supplies can make a significant difference in the longevity of your repair. Ifyou’re not sure whether to choose polyester or epoxy resin, check your surfboard’s manufacturer guidelines. 

Preparing Your Surfboard for Repair 

Step 1: Assess the Damage  

Before you begin the repair, examine your surfboard todetermine the extent of the damage. Is there a small crack or a larger, water-loggedding? Dry the affected area completely and clean it with fresh water to remove any salt, sand, or debris. Make sure the area is moisture-free beforeproceeding to avoid further complications. 

Step 2: Gather Your Materials  

You’ll need a surfboard repair kit, which typically includes sandpaper, fiberglass cloth, resin, a mixing container, and a stirring stick. If youdon’t have a kit, most surf shops carry the individual itemsyou’ll need. Optional items like gloves, a razor blade, or tape can also help make the process cleaner and smoother. 

Step 3: Sand and Prep the Area  

Using coarse sandpaper (around 60-grit), sand down the damaged area and remove any loose or weak fiberglass. Be sure to feather the edges around the ding to help the repair blend seamlessly with the board. Wipe away any dust or particles to ensure the resin adheres properly. 

Step 4: Apply the Resin and Fiberglass  

Mix the resin and any necessary hardener according to the instructions on the package. Cut a piece of fiberglass cloth slightly larger than the damaged area. Place the cloth over theding and slowly apply the resin mixture with a brush or stirring stick, completely saturating the cloth. Smooth it out to remove any bubbles. Applyadditional resin evenly over the area to ensure a strong seal. 

Step 5: Allow It to Cure  

Once the resin is applied, place your board in a well-ventilated area and allow the repair to fully cure. This process can take a few hours to overnight, depending on the resin and environmental conditions. Avoid rushing this step, as the strength of the repair depends on proper curing. 

Step 6: Sand and Finish  

After the repair has hardened, use finer sandpaper (around 200-grit) to smooth out the area untilit's flush with the rest of the board. Continue sanding with progressively finer grits until the surface is polished and seamless. This ensures the repairdoesn’t create drag in the water. 

Step 7: Test Your Repair  

Now thatyou’ve completed the repair,it’s time to put your work to the test! Take your board out for a surf and check to ensure the fix holds strong. If you notice any issues, you can always refine the repair further. 

Final Thoughts