How to Store Surfboards

For surfers, the only thing to hang onto out there in the ocean depths is a surfboard. It doesn't need to be the latest model, but it has to be in good shape. Care of a surfboard is relatively simple; how you store surfboards is part of this care.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• surfboard racks
• surfboards

1. 
   Sun damaged retro surfboard.

   Store surfboards out of the sun. This seems a little ironic, but it's true. The sun can do a lot of damage (see picture).
   
   When you're done surfing, it's recommended to rinse your surfboard with fresh water. Store in a surfboard bag on the way home, especially if your board is transported on top of a vehicle.
   
   The number one thing to remember is to store surfboards out of the sun and hot areas of your home; the attic is off limits for surfboard storage.

2. 
   Tbone rack.

   Store surfboards overhead in a garage if storage space is limited. Purchase a rack made specifically for this task, or construct a similar model of your own design.
   
   See the DIY PVC link provided under resources with diagrams and instructions for making your own ceiling-mounted racks out of PVC pipe and other inexpensive materials. The savings for constructing your own surfboard racks are substantial.

3. 
   Tension method.

   Store surfboards horizontally without making holes in the wall. See the link below which details Bud's racks, an ingenious tension method to store surfboards.
   
   This rack is perfect for renters who don't want to put extra holes in the wall. If you are rich in surfboards but don't have curtains, you can extend this rack from ceiling to floor and use the surfboards as your window dressing. Note: only do this on windows without direct sunlight.

4. 
   Double rack.

   Store surfboards horizontally with purchased wall racks. Do a search on Ebay and you'll find several different dealers selling surfboard racks.
   
   Prices vary for these racks. Be sure to check the seller's feedback rating and shipping charges before purchasing.

5. 
   Rental space.

   Rent space to store surfboards. If you fly to follow the surf, (even if it's only once or twice a year) it's cheaper and safer to rent a space for your personal surfboard rather than transport it on the plane. Check online for availability of this service in your surfing area.
   
   Take good care of your board so it takes care of you. Store surfboards properly and stay safe!

Tips & Warnings

• Be inventive with your storage space. In addition to interior storage, we have surfboards stored underneath our home with a rope "cradle" system tied into the floor joists. It's a cool, shady space and the boards are low, but off the ground.

Resources

• Tbone Surf Racks
• Bud's Racks (Tension style)
• DIY PVC Rack System
• Surf Garage (Hawaii)

[slphilbrick]

on 1/27/2009 Excellent tips on surfboard storage and resources on DIY projects ! 5*

[Upon-Request]

on 1/27/2009 Great tips for surfboarders - I'm forwarding to my son. :)

[georgelarson]

on 1/24/2009 Good ideas for storing surf boards. I suppose people in Minnesota will not need this information, though. Thanks for the information.

[Punkuns]

on 1/24/2009 Great surfboard storage information!

[bossypants]

on 1/24/2009 Good instructions for safeguarding the valuable investment in a surfboard, by storing the board properly! We don't see many surfboards where I live, but a friend of mine stores her kayak, as a work of art, in the gable of her home's cathedral entry way. Thanks for another useful and well written article!