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How to Protect Your Snowboard from Rust and Decay
Snowboards can provide hours of fun as you glide down snowy slopes, but they can also suffer from wear and tear, especially if they are exposed to moisture or harsh environmental conditions. Softening edges, delaminating layers, and corroding metal parts can make your snowboard less responsive, less stable, and less appealing. However, with some simple steps and regular maintenance, you can prevent your snowboard from becoming a rusty relic and prolong its life and performance. In this blog post, we will share some tips and tricks to help you protect your snowboard from rust and decay, starting from the basics and moving to advanced techniques. Feel free to jump to the section that interests you the most, or read the whole post for a comprehensive guide.
Table of Contents:
– Why snowboards rust and decay
– How to store your snowboard
– How to dry your snowboard
– How to clean your snowboard
– How to wax your snowboard
– How to sharpen your snowboard edges
– How to fix minor damage to your snowboard
– How to prevent major damage to your snowboard
– Final thoughts
Why Snowboards Rust and Decay
Snowboards can rust and decay due to various factors, such as exposure to:
– Moisture: When snow melts, it can create puddles or wet spots on your snowboard, which can seep into the core, edges, and screws of your snowboard, causing corrosion and rust. Even if your snowboard looks dry on the surface, it can still retain moisture inside, especially if you store it in a damp or humid environment.
– Salt: Some ski resorts use salt or salt solutions to melt ice and snow on the slopes, which can also corrode the metal parts of your snowboard, making them weaker and less durable. Even if you wash your snowboard after using it, some salt residue may remain and continue to damage your snowboard over time.
– Dirt: When you ride your snowboard on dirt or gravel, the particles can scratch the surface and expose the inner parts of your snowboard to moisture and rust. Dirt can also accumulate on the edges and base of your snowboard, hindering its performance and grip.
– Sunlight: UV rays can fade the colors and weaken the material of your snowboard, especially if you leave it exposed to direct sunlight for long periods. Sunlight can also melt the wax on your snowboard, leaving it dry and prone to damage.
Therefore, to avoid rust and decay, you need to minimize the exposure of your snowboard to moisture, salt, dirt, and sunlight, and take some precautions to maintain its cleanliness, dryness, and waxing.
How to Store Your Snowboard
One of the most important factors that affect the lifespan of your snowboard is how you store it. Here are some tips to help you store your snowboard properly:
– Use a snowboard bag: A snowboard bag can protect your snowboard from scratches, dents, and moisture, and make it easier to transport it to and from the ski resort. Choose a bag that fits your snowboard size and has thick padding or reinforced corners to withstand bumps and impacts.
– Keep your snowboard dry: Before storing your snowboard, make sure it is dry. Use a towel or cloth to wipe off any water or snow residue, paying attention to the edges and screws. You can also air-dry your snowboard by placing it in a dry and warm place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
– Store your snowboard in a cool and dry place: Avoid storing your snowboard in a damp or humid place, such as a basement or a garage. Moisture can infiltrate your snowboard and promote rust and decay. Instead, choose a room or a closet that has moderate temperature and low humidity.
– Don’t stack heavy objects on your snowboard: Your snowboard can bend or warp if you stack heavy objects on top of it or lean it against a wall. Use a wall mount or a freestanding rack to store your snowboard vertically, or lay it flat on the ground or on a shelf, with no pressure on its center or tips.
– Loosen the bindings: When you store your snowboard for a long time, it’s recommended to loosen the bindings. This can prevent the straps from becoming too tight, and the base plate from leaving a permanent imprint on the board. However, don’t loosen the screws too much, or you may lose them or damage the threads.
How to Dry Your Snowboard
As we mentioned earlier, keeping your snowboard dry is crucial for preventing rust and decay. Here are some methods to dry your snowboard effectively:
– Use a towel or cloth: After you ride your snowboard, wipe it with a towel or a cloth, paying attention to the edges and screws. This can remove any water or snow that may have accumulated on the surface or inside the bindings. You can also use a dry brush or a soft bristle to remove any dirt or debris.
– Use a boot dryer: If your boots or bindings are wet, they can also transfer moisture to your snowboard. Therefore, it’s a good idea to dry your boots and bindings first, using a boot dryer or a dehumidifier. This can remove the moisture and odor from your gear and prevent mold or mildew from growing. Most boot dryers have adjustable temperature settings and can dry two pairs of boots at the same time.
– Use a snowboard dryer: A snowboard dryer is a device that can dry your snowboard from the inside out, by blowing warm air through the core and base of your snowboard. Some snowboard dryers can also wax your snowboard and sharpen your edges, making the maintenance easier and faster. However, snowboard dryers can be expensive and bulky, and may not fit all snowboard sizes or shapes. Also, don’t dry your snowboard too hot, or you may damage the epoxy or the plastic parts of your board.
How to Clean Your Snowboard
Cleaning your snowboard regularly can remove dirt, salt, and other contaminants that can damage your snowboard over time. Here are some tips to clean your snowboard effectively:
– Use a snowboard cleaner: A snowboard cleaner is a specially formulated solution that can dissolve stubborn grime and restore the shine of your snowboard. Spray the cleaner on the surface and rub it gently with a soft cloth or sponge, avoiding the bindings or stickers. Rinse the cleaner off with water and dry the board with a towel or a cloth.
– Use a household cleaner: If you don’t have a snowboard cleaner, you can use a household cleaner that is safe for your snowboard. Mix some mild detergent or soap with warm water and apply it on the surface, using a soft brush or a sponge. Rinse the cleaner off with water and dry the board with a towel or a cloth. Avoid using abrasive or acidic cleaners, such as bleach, vinegar, or baking soda, as they can scratch or discolor your snowboard and void the warranty.
– Don’t soak your snowboard: When you clean your snowboard, don’t soak it in water or submerge it in a bathtub or a sink. This can fill the core and edges of your snowboard with water, which can lead to rust or delamination. Also, don’t use a pressure washer or a high-pressure hose to clean your snowboard, as the force can damage the surface or remove the wax from your snowboard.
How to Wax Your Snowboard
Waxing your snowboard is essential for keeping the base smooth, fast, and protected from damage. Here are some steps to wax your snowboard:
– Clean your snowboard: Before waxing your snowboard, you need to make sure it is clean and dry. Use a snowboard cleaner or a household cleaner to remove any dirt, salt, or grime, and dry the board with a towel or a cloth. You can also use a brass or a nylon brush to remove any excess wax or debris from the base or the edges.
– Choose the right wax: There are different types of snowboard wax, such as all-temperature wax, cold-temperature wax, or high-fluoro wax. Choose the wax that suits the snow conditions and the performance level you want. You can consult the manufacturer’s recommendations or ask a snowboard shop for advice.
– Heat the iron: Use a snowboard iron or a dedicated iron that has adjustable temperature settings and is not used for other purposes. Heat the iron to the recommended temperature for your wax, usually between 110°C (230°F) and 150°C (300°F). Don’t overheat the iron, or you may damage the base or the sidewalls of your snowboard.
– Apply the wax: Hold the wax against the iron and let it drip onto the base of your snowboard, working from tip to tail. Spread the wax evenly with the iron, using long and smooth strokes that cover the entire base. Don’t stop the iron in one place, or you may burn the wax or create bubbles. Make sure the wax covers the edges and the bindings, but avoid touching them with the iron, as they can melt or crack. Depending on the type of wax and the temperature, you may need to apply 2-3 layers of wax.
– Scrape the wax: After the wax has cooled and hardened, use a snowboard scraper or a plastic card to remove the excess wax from the base, working from tip to tail. Hold the scraper at a slight angle and press it firmly against the base, scraping the wax off in a smooth and continuous motion. Don’t scrape too hard or too deep, or you may damage the base or the edges of your snowboard. If there are any stubborn spots or edges, use a razor blade or a metal scraper to remove them, but be careful not to scratch the base or the edges.
How to Sharpen Your Snowboard Edges
Sharpening your snowboard edges can improve your grip, control, and carving ability, especially on hard or icy snow. Here are some steps to sharpen your snowboard edges:
– Check your edges: Before sharpening your edges, inspect them carefully for any nicks, burrs, or rust. If your edges are damaged, you may need to file or smooth them first, using a diamond stone or a metal file. Don’t use a Dremel or a power tool, as they can remove too much material and alter the shape and angle of your edges.
– Choose the right angle: There are different angles that you can sharpen your edges, such as 90 degrees, 88 degrees, or 87 degrees. The sharper the angle, the better the grip, but also the more prone to damage and wear. Choose the angle that suits your riding style and your snow conditions.
– Use a snowboard edge tool: A snowboard edge tool is a device that can hold a file or a stone at a consistent angle and guide it along the edge of your snowboard. This can ensure that your edges are sharpened evenly and smoothly. Some edge tools have adjustable angles and multiple files or stones for different levels of sharpness. However, edge tools can be expensive and require some practice to use effectively.
– File or stone the edges: Hold the edge tool against the edge of your snowboard, making sure the file or the stone is in contact with the metal. Move the edge tool along the edge, using a smooth and firm pressure, but not too much force, which can remove too much material. Repeat the process on the other edge and check the sharpness with your fingernail or a piece of paper. You should feel a slight friction or resistance, but not too much or too little.
– Deburr and polish the edges: After you sharpen your edges, there may be some rough or sharp spots on the edges, which can cause drag or vibrations. Use a diamond stone or a ceramic stone to remove any burrs or rough spots, and polish the edges with a gummi stone or a horsehair brush. This can make your edges smoother and prevent them from rusting or corroding.
How to Fix Minor Damage to Your Snowboard
Even if you take good care of your snowboard, there may still be some minor dings, scratches, or chips that require some attention. Here are some methods to fix minor damage to your snowboard:
– Use P-tex for scratches: P-tex is a plastic material that can melt and fill in the scratches or dings on the base of your snowboard. You can buy P-tex candles or sticks that can be heated with a lighter or a heat gun, and applied on the affected area. After the material cools down, use a metal scraper or a sandpaper to level it with the base. You can also use a base repair kit that includes P-tex in different colors and a metal scraper.
– Use epoxy for delamination: Delamination is when the layers of your snowboard separate, creating bubbles or cracks in the surface. To fix delamination, you need to remove the affected area gently, using a razor blade or a utility knife, and clean the surface with a solvent or a cleaner. Apply a small amount of epoxy resin or polyester resin to the gap, and press the layers together with a clamp or a weight. Let the epoxy cure overnight or according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and sand or file the surface if necessary.
– Use a metal file for edges: If your edges are burred or damaged, you can use a metal file or a diamond stone to smooth them out. Hold the file or the stone at a 45-degree angle to the edge, and file or stone the edge from tip to tail, using a consistent pressure and motion. Don’t file or stone the edge too aggressively or unevenly, or you may create more damage or alter the shape of the edge. You can also use a gummi stone or a ceramic stone to polish the edges.
– Use a touch-up paint for topsheet: If your topsheet has scratches or chips, you can use a touch-up paint that matches your snowboard color or design. Apply the paint with a small brush or a toothpick, and let it dry for several hours or overnight. You can also use a clear coat or a clear nail polish to protect the paint from fading or peeling.
How to Prevent Major Damage to Your Snowboard
While minor damage can be fixed relatively easily, major damage can be costly, time-consuming, and sometimes irreparable. Therefore, to prevent major damage to your snowboard, you need to:
– Avoid hitting rocks or trees: Although it may seem obvious, many snowboarders can get distracted or misjudge the terrain, and hit a rock or a tree, which can cause serious damage to the board and the rider. Therefore, always pay attention to the surroundings and adjust your speed and direction accordingly. Additionally, wear a helmet and other protective gear to minimize the risk of injury.
– Avoid exposing your board to extreme conditions: Your snowboard is designed to withstand a certain temperature range, depending on the materials and the construction. If you expose it to extreme heat or cold, you can warp, crack, or delaminate the board. Therefore, avoid leaving your snowboard in a car trunk or a hot room, or exposing it to freezing temperatures or strong winds.
– Avoid overusing your board: Although snowboards are durable and flexible, they can also fatigue and wear out if you use them too frequently or aggressively. Therefore, avoid riding your snowboard on rough or rocky terrain, or using it for purposes that it’s not designed for, such as jumping off cliffs or rails. Additionally, rotate your snowboard usage, and avoid using the same board for several seasons without proper maintenance, as the flex and pop can diminish over time.
– Get a professional inspection: If you notice any unusual noise, vibration, or performance issues with your snowboard, or if you suspect that it may have been damaged in some way, don’t hesitate to get a professional inspection or repair. A snowboard shop or a qualified technician can diagnose the problem and recommend the best solution, whether it’s a simple repair, a tune-up, or a replacement.
Final Thoughts
Your snowboard may be just a piece of equipment, but it can also be a source of joy, challenge, and adventure. By taking care of your snowboard, you can not only extend its life and performance, but also deepen your connection and appreciation for the sport. We hope this blog post has provided you with some useful insights and tips on how to prevent your snowboard from becoming a rusty relic, and how to enjoy it for years to come. Feel free to share your own snowboard maintenance tips or questions in the comments below, and happy shredding!
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