Significance

• The most common type of damage that you'll encounter on a snowboard is base damage. The base of the snowboard is what makes contact with the ground. Run over a rock, root or even just some ice and you'll probably notice some scratching into the p-tex. While you can ignore some smaller scratches, it's best to repair larger or multiple scratches. You want to keep your base as uniform and smooth as possible to provide the best ride.
  
  

Function

• Repairing base damage can be quite simple. For your basic extruded base, you simply need a base cleaner, p-tex candle, torch or candle and metal scraper. Cut off any strands of material, clean with base cleaner and allow to dry. Melt the p-tex with your torch, drip into the scratch(es) and allow to dry. Scrape off excess p-tex with metal scraper, and you're ready to put on some wax to polish off the job. A sintered base is more complicated to repair because it is harder, and softer repair p-tex does not adhere as well. Use a harder p-tex repair like ribbon, or take your board into the shop. You'll also need an iron or gun to melt down the harder p-tex.
  
  

Considerations

• If a scratch extends beyond the p-tex and into the fiberglass or core, your repair gets a bit more complicated. It's best to take it to a shop at this point unless you have some knowledge of this type of repair. If you intend to repair it, you'll need to use an epoxy or co-polymer to fill in the damage to the fiberglass because p-tex won't adhere. Then p-tex can be used over top of the epoxy to finish the repair.
  
  

Types

• Your edges also need regular repair and upkeep. Like the base, the edges stay in contact with the ground and may get banged up from rocks, ice and other irregularities. It's best to keep your edges sharp and smooth, so regular edge repair and maintenance is important. For edge repair, you'll need a deburring (diamond) stone, file or edge tool and a gummy stone. Smooth out the nicks on the edges with the deburring stone, sharpen the edges with a file or edge tool using a long, straight filing motion. Go over once more with the deburring stone, and touch up with the gummy stone.
  
  

Features

• Bindings are another part of the snowboarding package prone to damage. Binding damage can vary and may include loosening at the mounting screws, broken straps and broken ratchets. Tightening down all screws and using some Loctite when necessary is the simple fix to a loose binding. Damage to straps or binding mechanisms may require a simple adjustment or replacement screw or it may require new parts. When replacing parts (straps, ratchets, etc.), work with the shop where you bought the bindings or directly with the manufacturer. Keep a receipt handy, and check warranty information since your part may be covered.
  
  

Warning

• Certain extensive damage should be taken for professional repair unless you're experienced in these types of repair. Separated edges, capped construction damage, top or base delamination, core shots, large or oddly located scratches or holes and stripped mounting inserts are some repairs that are best left to professionals. Take these in immediately, or proceed with caution on these types of repairs.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• In addition to the aforementioned tools for each type of damage, a workbench and snowboard vices will help to make repair easier and more organized.