To wax a longboard for the first time, clean the board thoroughly, apply a base coat, rub on the wax, and use a comb to create traction. Waxing a longboard can improve its performance and protect the board’s deck from scratches and damage.
Before you start waxing, make sure to clean the board with soap and water to remove any dirt, debris, or other contaminants. Then apply a base coat to the deck, which helps the wax adhere better. Rub the wax onto the deck, applying pressure to create a thin layer of wax. Finally, use a comb to create traction by making diagonal grooves in the wax. With these simple steps, you can wax your longboard for the first time and enjoy a smoother, safer ride.
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Understanding The Basics Of Waxing A Longboard
Waxing your longboard is an essential step to maintaining its quality and longevity. It’s crucial to learn the basics of waxing before jumping into the process. In this post, we’ll discuss the benefits of waxing a longboard, types of wax, and the necessary tools and materials to carry out the process.
The Benefits Of Waxing Your Board
Waxing your longboard isn’t just for appearances, it serves several essential purposes, including:
- Provides better grip and control over your board
- Protects the board surface from damage
- Increases the life of the longboard
- Helps maintain your style and technique on the board
- Prevents slippage while riding
Types Of Wax For Longboarding
Two types of wax are typically used for longboarding, paraffin wax and natural wax. These wax types have varying properties and serve different purposes.
**paraffin wax**
- Less expensive than natural wax
- Made from petroleum byproducts
- Regularly used on all types of longboards at all temperatures
- Easy to apply and remove
**natural wax**
- Free from harmful chemicals
- Made from environmentally-friendly materials like beeswax and soy wax
- Generally more expensive than paraffin wax
- Better for the skin due to non-toxic properties
- Suitable for higher temperatures
Tools And Materials Necessary For Waxing
Waxing a longboard requires several tools and materials.
- Wax suitable for the riding temperature
- Wax comb or scraper to remove old wax
- Soft bristle brush to apply the wax
- Clean cloth to remove excess wax
- A flat surface for applying the wax, such as a table or workbench
- A hairdryer (optional) to melt the wax and make it easier to apply
- Gloves to protect your skin from the wax
Waxing your longboard is a crucial step to ensuring it remains in good condition. There are different wax types to choose from, and it’s vital to use the appropriate tools and process for a successful application. By following these basics, you can extend the life of your longboard and make sure your rides are always smooth and safe.
Prepping Your Longboard For Waxing
Waxing your longboard is crucial to ensure better grip and smoother rides. It may seem like a daunting task, especially if it’s your first time. But fret not, we’ve got you covered! In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about waxing your longboard.
In this section, we’ll dive into prepping your longboard for waxing. Let’s get started with some must-follow tips.
How To Clean Your Longboard
Before waxing, cleaning your longboard is extremely important. It allows you to identify areas that need waxing and ensures good adhesion of the new wax.
- Grab a bowl of warm water and add a mild soap solution to it.
- Use a soft-bristled brush to clean your longboard, making sure to reach every nook and cranny.
- Rinse your longboard with water and pat it dry with a clean towel.
How To Identify Areas That Need Waxing
Once your longboard is clean, the next step is to identify the areas that need waxing. These are typically areas where your feet come in contact with the board.
- Look for any shiny spots on your longboard. These are usually areas that have been waxed before.
- Check for areas where the grip tape has worn out or has lost its texture.
- Stand on your longboard and see where your feet leave marks. These areas are the parts that need waxing.
Tips For Removing Old Wax
Before applying new wax, you need to make sure that there’s no old wax left on your longboard.
- Use a wax comb to scrape off as much wax as possible.
- If there’s still some wax left, use a hairdryer to soften it and then scrape it off with a wax comb.
- For stubborn wax, use a citrus-based solvent and a rag to wipe it off.
By following these steps, you’ll have a clean longboard that’s ready to be waxed. Stay tuned for the next section of this post where we’ll cover how to apply wax to your longboard.
HOW TO WAX YOUR SURFBOARD FOR THE FIRST TIME! I explain how to wax your longboard or shortboard.
Applying Wax To Your Longboard
Waxing your longboard is an essential part of keeping it in good condition and ensuring that you have proper traction while riding. If you’re a first-time longboard waxer, you may wonder how to go about it. In this blog post, we’ll cover the basics of applying wax to your longboard.
Let’s get started!
The Proper Technique For Applying Wax
The first step in waxing your longboard is to make sure that it’s clean and free of dirt and debris.
- Hold the wax in your hand and rub it diagonally across the board’s surface.
- Spread the wax from one end of the board to the other, making sure to cover the entire surface.
- Use firm, circular motions to work the wax into the board.
- Apply enough wax to cover the board, but don’t use too much.
- Repeat the process until you have a good, even coat of wax on the board.
How Much Wax To Use
Using the right amount of wax is essential to getting good traction on your longboard.
- Use a quarter-sized amount of wax to start with.
- Rub the wax on the board in circular motions until you have covered the entire surface.
- If the board feels slippery, you may need to add more wax.
- Once the board has a good, even coat of wax, you’re ready to hit the road!
Tips For Achieving An Even Coat
Getting an even coat of wax on your longboard takes practice, but here are a few tips to get you started:
- Make sure the board is clean and free of any dirt or debris.
- Apply the wax in diagonal strokes across the board to ensure full coverage.
- Use firm, circular motions to work the wax into the board.
- Don’t use too much wax, as this can cause the board to become slippery.
- If you’ve applied too much wax, use a scraper to remove the excess.
- Finally, buff the board with a cloth or towel to remove any excess wax and create a smoother surface.
By following these simple steps and tips, you can wax your longboard like a pro and ensure that you have proper traction while riding. Happy longboarding!
Buffing And Polishing Your Longboard
The Proper Technique For Buffing And Polishing
After applying wax to your longboard, it’s time to buff and polish it to achieve a smooth finish.
- Use a clean and soft microfiber cloth to buff your longboard. Avoid using any abrasive materials as they can scratch the surface.
- It’s best to buff in a circular motion, starting in one section of the board and working your way towards the other end. Make sure you don’t miss any spots.
- While buffing, apply slight pressure to the cloth and keep it moving in a circular motion until you notice a shine. Remember to buff the rails and tail of the board too.
- Once you finish buffing, you can polish your board by lightly running the cloth over the surface in a straight line. This should remove any streaks or marks that were left behind during the buffing process.
Best Practices For Achieving A Smooth Finish
While buffing and polishing your longboard, here are some best practices to consider:
- Be patient and take your time. Rushing the process can lead to missed spots and an uneven appearance.
- Avoid over-buffing as it can remove the wax and scratch the surface of your longboard.
- If you notice any stubborn marks or stains on your board, you can use a wax remover and repeat the buffing and polishing process to remove them.
- Always use a clean microfiber cloth when buffing and polishing your longboard. Any dirt or debris on the cloth can cause scratches on the surface.
- After polishing your board, let it sit for a few hours allowing the wax to settle before riding it.
Additional Tips For Maintaining Your Board’S Appearance
To keep your longboard looking brand new, here are some tips to follow:
- After each session, use a damp cloth to wipe down your board and remove any dirt or debris.
- Store your board in a dry and cool place to avoid any exposure to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
- Avoid dragging your board across the ground as it can cause scratches on the surface.
- Lastly, make sure to regularly reapply wax to maintain your board’s appearance and durability.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll have a well-maintained and shiny longboard for your next ride.
Troubleshooting Waxing Issues
Waxing your longboard is an essential step in ensuring it performs at its best. However, as a beginner, waxing your longboard can be challenging, and things can go wrong. That’s why we’ve included troubleshooting tips to help you in case you encounter issues when waxing your longboard.
In this section, we’ll cover what to do if the wax won’t stick, how to deal with clumps of wax and offer tips for fixing an uneven coat.
What To Do If The Wax Won’T Stick
Sometimes, even after following the correct steps, your wax may refuse to stick to your board.
- Clean your board thoroughly: dirt, sand or even wax residue can prevent the new wax coat from sticking to your longboard. Make sure you clean your board using a surfboard cleaner and give it plenty of time to dry before starting the waxing process.
- Use a basecoat or tack coat: applying a basecoat of wax can help the topcoat bond to your longboard’s surface. You can also start by applying a tack coat of wax to the board, moving in circles and pressing down hard. This helps to create a layer that the rest of the wax can stick to.
- Heat up the wax: if you’re waxing your board in a cold environment or during the winter season, try heating the wax before applying it to the board. You can use a hairdryer to melt the wax or leave it out in the sun for a few minutes to soften it.
How To Deal With Clumps Of Wax
When waxing your longboard, it’s common to have excess wax build-up in certain areas, forming clumps. These clumps can be distracting and even affect your grip.
- Use a wax comb: a comb is an essential tool for anyone waxing their board. Use the comb teeth to scrape off excess wax and distribute it evenly across the board.
- Sandpaper: if some of the clumps are hard to remove, you can lightly sand the affected area to remove excess wax build-up. Use a fine-grit sandpaper and be gentle to avoid damaging your board’s surface.
Tips For Fixing An Uneven Coat
An uneven coat of wax can cause you to slip or have an inconsistent grip while riding your longboard.
- Create cross-hatch patterns: evenly applying wax in cross-hatch patterns can help ensure that the waxed surface is covered. Move in circular, vertical and horizontal motions for the best results.
- Add more wax: if you notice an area that needs more wax coverage, apply another layer of wax and use a wax comb to distribute it evenly.
- Distribute wax more evenly: if you notice some areas with an uneven coat, use a hairdryer or leave the board in the sun to allow the wax to melt slightly into the gaps. Then, use a wax comb to distribute it properly.
By following these troubleshooting tips, you can overcome any waxing issues and maintain your longboard’s performance levels. Remember always to store your longboard in a cool, dry place, and reshape wax on a regular basis so that it doesn’t build up and affect your grip.
Conclusion
Waxing a longboard for the first time can seem like a daunting task, but it is a necessary step in ensuring a smooth and safe ride. Before beginning, make sure to choose the proper wax for your longboard and gather all necessary materials.
Remember to clean the surface, heat the wax, and apply it evenly in the right direction. Too much wax can cause problems, so start with a light layer and build up as needed. With practice and attention to detail, waxing your longboard can become a quick and easy routine.
Not only will your board look better, but the added grip will also enhance your performance and overall riding experience. So, grab your longboard and get waxing! Your board and your ride will thank you for it.
