If you’re a fan of skateboarding then you know that there’s nothing quite like the feeling of skating down a street or sidewalk on a warm day.
If you’ve ever been out skating and had your board suddenly start slowing down and feeling a lot heavier then it’s likely that your board is waterlogged. This can cause a lot of problems for your skateboard.
So in this post, we’re going to teach you how to tell if a skateboard is waterlogged and what you can do to fix it!
What is Waterlogging and why does it happen to Skateboards?
Waterlogging is when your skateboard absorbs water from the ground or air and starts to swell up. This can happen if you leave your board in the rain, ride it in puddles, or even just keep it outside in humid weather.
When the wood of your skateboard absorbs water it starts to expand and can cause the skateboard deck to warp or crack. This can make your skateboard unrideable and can even cause serious injury if you’re not careful.
Waterlogging can also lead to warping and cracking which can ruin a skateboard completely. To avoid waterlogging it’s important to store your skateboard in a dry place when not in use. If you do get water on your board dry it off as soon as possible to prevent damage.
How to Identify Waterlogging on a Skateboards?
When water logging occurs on a skateboard it is important to identify the problem as soon as possible to avoid any further damage. There are several ways to tell if your skateboard has waterlogged:
- One way is by examining the deck of the skateboard. If the deck appears warped or bowed this is a sign that waterlogging has occurred.
- Another way to tell if your skateboard is waterlogged is by examining the trucks. If the trucks are rusted or appear to be corroding this is another sign of waterlogging.
- Finally, if the bearings on your skateboard feel gritty or rough when you spin them this is a sure sign that waterlogging has occurred.
If you notice any of these signs it is important to take action immediately to avoid further damage.
How to Fix a Waterlogged Skateboard?
If you think your skateboard might be waterlogged, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the problem.
- One way is to remove the trucks and bearings from the deck and allow them to dry completely. This will help to prevent further rusting and corrosion.
- Another way to fix a waterlogged skateboard is to place the board in a warm, dry place for a few days. This will help the wood of the board to shrink back to its original size and shape.
- Finally, if your skateboard is severely damaged, you may need to replace the deck entirely. This should only be done as a last resort, as it can be quite expensive.
Prevention Tips for Avoiding Waterlogging Damage on Skateboards:
The best way to prevent waterlogging in the future:
- Store your skateboard in a dry, safe place when not in use.
- If you do get water on your board make sure to dry it off as soon as possible.
- Invest in a quality skateboard deck waterproofing spray.
- Be mindful of where you skate and avoid puddles or riding in the rain.
Waterlogging can be a serious problem for skateboards, but following these prevention tips can help avoid it.
If you find that your board is waterlogged, immediately try and fix the problem. With proper care and maintenance, your skateboard will last for years to come!
Did You Know: How Much Weight Can a Skateboard Hold?
FAQs – How To Tell If A Skateboard Is Waterlogged?
Is a skateboard ruined if it gets wet?
No, a skateboard is not necessarily ruined if it gets wet. However, waterlogging can cause serious damage to a skateboard so it is important to take steps to prevent it.
Waterlogging occurs when the wood of the skateboard absorbs water and begins to swell up.
How long does it take for a skateboard to dry?
It depends on the severity of the waterlogging. If the board is only slightly wet it may only take a few hours to dry. However, if the board is severely waterlogged, it may take a few days for the wood to shrink back to its original size and shape.
Is it OK to skate after it rains?
It is not advisable to skate after it rains as the ground will be wet and slippery. Additionally, puddles can cause waterlogging damage to your skateboard. If you must skate in wet conditions be sure to avoid puddles and keep your board as dry as possible.
Does water ruin grip tape?
No, water will not ruin grip tape. However, if the grip tape becomes soaked it may take longer to dry and may not stick as well. If your grip tape does get wet be sure to dry it off as soon as possible.
How do you clean a wet skateboard?
If your skateboard is only slightly wet you can clean it with a bar of mild soap and water. However, if the board is severely waterlogged you may need to remove the trucks and bearings and allow them to dry completely. You may also need to place the board in a warm dry place for a few days.
Conclusion
The best way to determine if a skateboard is waterlogged is by its weight. A waterlogged board will be much heavier than a dry one. A waterlogged board will ride very differently than a dry one. It will be more difficult to control and will wobble more.
If you are unsure if your skateboard is waterlogged there are several ways to test if your board has taken on too much water but the easiest way is by weighing it. If you think your skateboard might be waterlogged don’t despair! There are some things you can do to try and get it back into shape so you can start shredding again.
