About Snowboard Base Repair
Damage to the base of a snowboard is one of the most common repairs that you'll run into in the sport. In fact, regular maintenance should include base repair. While certain repairs require the attention of a professional, the most common repairs can be done at home with a simple set of tools and processes.
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Identification
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The base of the snowboard is the smooth bottom that is designed to contact the snow and provide a fluid ride downhill. Snowboard bases are made out of a polyethylene plastic known as p-tex. The two main types of bases on today's snowboards are extruded and sintered. Basically, the difference relates to the way each is constructed. Extruded bases are formed by heating p-tex and forcing it through a die that molds it to shape. The sintered base, on the other hand, is formed by compressing p-tex powder into a solid and then cutting to form. Sintered bases are the higher performance of the two; however, they can also be more difficult to repair because repair p-tex sticks and candles are made from extruded p-tex. You may want to consider taking a sintered base to the shop. If you do perform the p-tex work yourself, use a harder p-tex like a ribbon rather than a candle. If your repair material pops out, definitely take it in for professional repair.
Identification
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The most common type of base damage that you'll encounter is deep scratches in the p-tex. You should inspect your board regularly for these scratches as they'll hinder your performance, slowing your board. Potentially, they could also lead to more extensive damage if left unrepaired. You should repair any scratches prior to waxing.
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Function
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Repair of your basic scratch is actually quite straightforward. You'll need base cleaner, p-tex candle, which can be purchased at a snowboard shop or online, a torch or candle, and a metal scraper. First remove any material that may be hanging off the base in strands. Clean off the base by rubbing it down with base cleaner and let it dry (base cleaner is flammable). Light your fire and heat your p-tex until it begins to melt. Then drip or rub the p-tex onto the base and fill in any scratches. Allow to cool and then use the metal scraper to scrape off any excess p-tex. Once you've filled in any damage, you're ready to proceed with waxing. If you intend to use a harder p-tex like ribbon, you'll need to use a repair iron or pistol to melt the p-tex and apply it into the scratch or damaged area.
Considerations
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In some instances scratches or holes may go beyond the p-tex and penetrate under the edges, into the fiberglass or to the core of the snowboard. At this point, it's best to take your board to a repair professional if you're not comfortable or experienced making repairs. If you prefer to repair yourself use copolymer or epoxy first because p-tex will not bond to fiberglass or metal. P-tex can then be used over the copolymer to fill the remaining damage. Delamination is the most serious problem that can occur to the base, essentially resulting in the base separating from the core of the snowboard. Seek warranty repair if applicable or take to the shop immediately.
Benefits
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If the look of your base is important to you, be sure to consider the color of the p-tex when purchasing or use clear p-tex when possible. If you don't, you'll have lines and spots detracting from the design on your base.
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