Do I need to repair this ding from the surfboard I bought?

[Tomi_li]

Bought this surfboard just a hour ago, notice there are some dings repaired, there is only a small color discoloration on the board but and there is a little dimple I do not know if I need to fix. First board I ever bought and I got a okay deal on it.

Here is the dimple





Sorry if I seem like a noob asking something like this as a first post but I don't know any surfers and I have browsed this site for lots of information.

[dtc]

Tomi

Surfboards are made of foam covered with layers of fiberglass, cloth and resin. The foam can absorb water, which = bad; although the degree of badness depends on the actual type of foam used (but regardless, still bad). So basically you dont want water to get through the outside layers into the foam.

So the ding is a problem if it allows water to get into the foam (although even then probably not a big problem as its a small ding). However, if its just cracking in the resin/fibreglass, but there is no way for water to get through into the foam, then its not a problem.

If you need to repair it, you can find surfboard repair kits at stores or on line. These are basically just sheets of fibreglass and resin, and you 're-cover' where the hole is. Easily done.

[Tomi_li]

Thank you for your reply. I don't think I can really see the foam, its more of a tiny dent with a slight crack.

Will it be okay if I take it out tomorrow and then fix it sometime later? I really want to try it out as I have never used a hardboard before!

[kitesurfer]

I don't think you need to worry about that ding.

KS

[dtc]

Will it be okay if I take it out tomorrow and then fix it sometime later? I really want to try it out as I have never used a hardboard before!

Go for it. I doubt much water could get in even if the crack goes all the way through. Most boards have cracks and shatters and similar, its just the nature of how boards are made.

If you are worried, keep an eye on the area and see if there is any discolouration in the foam after you surf, or even squeeze the ding to see if water squirts out. If it does, then repair it.

You can cover it with tape if you are particularly concerned (not duct tape, need waterproof/aluminium tape). But you probably dont have to

Have a great time - dont worry about the ding, just surf.

[esonscar]

Hi Tomi_li . . .

I reckon cover it with either wax or aluminium tape. Salt absorbs water so if any sea water gets into the cracks and or the foam, even when 'dry' the salt residue will continue to suck water from the atmosphere.

To ensure a god clean fix pour just off the boil water (at least a litre) to clean the area, leave to dry then fill it with wax or cover with ally tape.

Besides, a waterproofed ding here or there helps give your 'board a story to tell so don't ever be afraid of taping over or patching up.

Cheers