Paddle boards are a significant investment, and like any gear, proper care and maintenance will ensure that your board lasts for years while maintaining its performance. Whether you're a seasoned paddle boarder or a beginner, taking good care of your board is essential to protect its integrity, keep it looking great, and maximize its longevity. In this blog, we'll go over essential tips on how to care for and maintain your paddle board, including how UV protective spray can help safeguard it from the sun's damaging rays.
1. Clean Your Paddle Board After Every Use
After each paddle boarding session, it's important to clean your board to remove saltwater, dirt, sand, and any other debris that may have accumulated. Use fresh water and a gentle sponge or cloth to wipe down your paddle board. If you've been paddling in saltwater, thoroughly rinse the board to prevent any salt from eating away at the surface.
- Why it's essential: Saltwater, dirt, and debris can cause wear and tear on your paddle board over time. Cleaning your board regularly helps preserve its surface and finish, ensuring your board stays in good shape for years to come.
2. Use UV Protective Spray to Prevent Sun Damage
UV rays from the sun can be harmful to your paddle board, causing the colors to fade, the surface to become brittle, and the overall durability to diminish. Thankfully, new technology has introduced UV protective spray, a game-changer for paddle board maintenance. This innovative spray helps protect your board from the sun's harmful rays, preventing fading, cracking, and other forms of sun damage.
- Why it's essential: Paddle boards are often exposed to direct sunlight, which can cause the material to break down over time. UV protective spray adds a layer of protection, keeping your board looking new while preserving its structural integrity. Applying the spray after every use (especially when storing the board outside) is an easy and effective way to extend your board’s lifespan.
3. Store Your Paddle Board Properly
Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the quality of your paddle board. When not in use, always store your board in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you’re storing an inflatable paddle board, make sure to deflate it completely before storing it in a bag. If you have a hard paddle board, avoid leaning it against walls or other surfaces, as this can cause dents or damage to the edges.
- Why it's essential: Storing your board correctly ensures that it doesn't become warped, scratched, or exposed to unnecessary wear. If possible, store it indoors or in a shaded area to protect it from the sun. Keeping your paddle board in a dedicated storage space also helps prevent it from getting damaged by falling objects or accidental impacts.
4. Inspect Your Paddle Board Regularly
Regular inspections are essential for identifying any potential issues before they become serious problems. Look over your paddle board for any cracks, dings, or damage to the surface. Check the deck pad for peeling or wear and tear. If you're using an inflatable paddle board, inspect the seams and valves for leaks or signs of damage.
- Why it's essential: Regular inspections allow you to catch small issues early, which can save you time and money in repairs. Repairing small cracks, dents, or leaks promptly helps prevent them from worsening and affecting your paddle board’s performance.
5. Maintain Your Paddle and Leash
While caring for your paddle board is important, don’t forget to maintain your paddle and leash as well. Wash your paddle after each use, ensuring that it’s free of saltwater, dirt, or sand. Store the paddle in a safe, dry location when not in use, avoiding exposure to heat or direct sunlight.
- Why it's essential: Maintaining your paddle and leash ensures that they stay in good working condition for years to come. Saltwater and debris can cause corrosion or wear on the paddle, affecting its performance. Similarly, a leash that's not properly maintained could fail at an inopportune moment, compromising your safety on the water.
6. Repair Small Dings and Scratches
If your paddle board gets a small ding or scratch, it’s important to repair it as soon as possible. For hard paddle boards, you can use a special epoxy resin to fill in cracks or chips. For inflatable paddle boards, patch kits are available to seal up punctures or small tears. Many boards come with a repair kit, but if not, you can purchase one online or at a local outdoor store.
- Why it's essential: Repairing small dings and scratches right away prevents water from seeping into the board, which could lead to bigger issues like mold or structural weakening. Timely repairs keep your board in top condition and prevent further damage.
Conclusion: Paddle Board Maintenance for a Longer Lifespan
Caring for your paddle board is essential to ensure that it stays in great shape and provides you with countless adventures on the water. From regular cleaning to using UV protective spray to prevent sun damage, these simple maintenance tips can help you get the most out of your paddle board. Don’t forget to inspect your board regularly, store it properly, and address any small repairs as soon as possible to prolong its life and keep it performing at its best.
