The complete guide to snowboard servicing

Much like your car requires routine checks for safe operation, your snowboard needs regular servicing and maintenance to ensure safe riding, too. However, unlike car maintenance, snowboard servicing is typically quicker and more affordable.

Over time, your snowboard’s base may sustain damage from small stones or branches encountered on the slopes. A standard service includes repairing these damages. Additionally, the edges get tuned, and fresh wax is applied to make the board perform at its best again.

For those who have the time and want to give it a try themselves, DIY maintenance is also an option to keep your winter sports gear in top condition.

Within the realm of snowboard servicing, you’ll come across a variety of service offerings from different providers. In addition to comprehensive packages, there are streamlined service options available.

For instance, an extensive service package may encompass the following services:

• Manual repair/filling of deep scratches and gouges
• Removal of wax residues
• Restoration of the base
• Structural sanding of the base
• Bevelling the base edges
• Sharpening the side edges
• Deburring and polishing the edges
• Applying fresh wax and polishing the base

In comparison, an express service package could include the following:

• Structural sanding of the base
• Bevelling the base edges
• Sharpening the side edges
• Deburring and polishing the edges
• Applying fresh wax and polishing the base

If you’re looking to give your snowboard a refresh at home or between seasons, you can easily renew the wax yourself.

Here’s a list of tools and materials you’ll need:

• Waxing vice
• Wax remover 
• Stiff-bristle brush
• Repair candle (for addressing substantial scratches)
• Plexiglass scraper / plexi blade
• Polishing block
• Edge tool
• Hot wax and wax iron
• Polishing cloth

Find a suitable workspace for waxing your snowboard. A balcony, garage or even a living room with an open window are all viable options. Ensure that your snowboard is at room temperature before you begin.

Prepare a sturdy work surface, such as a workbench or table, and cover it with a protective sheet. To facilitate your work on the board, you’ll need a waxing vice – a two-part snowboard holder designed for working on the base and edges. Secure your snowboard with the help of this vice.

Start by removing old wax residue from your board. Use a wax remover and a stiff-bristle brush for this purpose.

To address significant scratches on your board, grab a repair candle and drip the product onto the affected areas. Allow the material to harden, which typically takes around 20 minutes. Once hardened, you can use a sharp plexiglass scraper to remove any excess wax, leaving you with a smooth and even surface.

Pay close attention to the edges of your snowboard. Begin by using a polishing block to remove rust and uneven spots. Then use the edge tool to achieve your desired edge angle. Apply even pressure while moving the tool from the tip to the tail of your snowboard. Repeat this process until the edges are sharp.

Please note: Make sure that your sanding motion only goes in the specified direction to prevent damage. Afterwards, use the sanding stone once more to gently de-tune (round off) the corners of the tip and tail.

Now, it’s time to wax your board. Opt for a wax product suitable for all snow types and temperatures. You’ll need a wax iron to apply the wax. Skip the tip and tail during this process. Start by applying the wax drop by drop along the entire length of the board, then evenly distribute it with the iron. Make sure there are no untreated areas left. Allow the wax to dry for 5 to 10 minutes.

Any excess wax that hasn’t been absorbed can be removed using a plexiglass scraper. Be thorough and don’t forget to address the edges of the board.

For the finishing touches, very lightly brush the board from tip to tail with a stiff-bristle brush. This will create a smooth surface, allowing your board to glide effortlessly over the snow.

As a last step, you can give your snowboard a polished finish using a clean cloth. And voilà! Now your beloved board is ready for the slopes again.