snowboard tune-up workshop

Pre-Season Snowboard and Ski Prep

With snowy days just around the corner, it is time for you to do your annual pre-season snowboard prep! This means taking out your snowboard after months to make sure it is ready to use for the new season. After the snow season ends, most professional and expert skiers wax and seal the skis till the start of the new snow season. This process is a must as it not only helps with the maintenance and durability of your ski equipment but also ensures skiing security.

However, if you neglect off-season maintenance, your board may rust on the iron edges, and the base may have severe deep scratches, which will ultimately ruin your skiing experience. So, either find a ski/snowboard workshop to do a snowboard tune up for you or do it yourself at home. Don't worry if you haven't done snowboard repair before. It's never too late to get your snowboard ready before getting out on the hill.

How to Pre-Season Prep Your Snowboard?

Most riders store their boards for about 6 months between seasons each year, which is enough time for them to need some repairs before being used for the new season. Taking care of your ski snowboard by storing it dry, supporting it well and waxing regularly can extend its life to over ten years without deterioration.

 

STEP 1: TUNE THE EDGES

Your board might have a few rusty spots or edges from the previous season unless it is a brand-new deck or has a plastic wrap around it. You might ask why tune the edges before cleaning? Well, it is because the base will get some iron dirt from the edge.

Check for burrs by running your finger over the edge's length. If you detect any, lightly push the diamond stone against the edge in that location while keeping it flat against the sidewall or base. When you are finished, use an edge sharpening tool with a tiny built-in file to refine your edges. Additionally, you must make sure the file is positioned correctly in the tool for the direction you are pulling the file. You will probably need to turn the file over when you change edges.

 

Step 2: CLEAN THE BASE

For better snowboard maintenance results, put the bottom side up, use a wax scraper and nylon brush to remove the old wax and dirt, or use VOLA Base Cleaner, which can help to get excess dust, wax, and other dirt off the base. You can spray it evenly on the top or apply it with a sponge.

Wait a few minutes before you go to the next step to wax your base.  If the dirt is into the base already, we suggest applying a layer of hot ski wax, then using a fibre towel or plastic scrap to clean the wax. This way, the dirt will come out with the hot wax. However, we recommend that this technique better be executed by a professional as a newbie might damage the base.

 

Step 3: WAX THE BOARD

The next step in preparing your snowboarding gear is to wax your board to make sure the base remains stronger and healthier. Moreover, you will not have to wax that frequently during the season. The more snowboard wax you apply, the more it preserves in the pores of your snowboard base. This will make it tougher and faster.

Here is how to wax snowboard?

  • Spread the ski wax evenly using your iron. Don't remove the extra wax right away.
  • For 12 to 24 hours, place your board on a rack or other secure surface in a warm area. By doing this, the wax will completely enter the board's base material and adhere to the pores of the plastic.
  • After 24 hours pass by, you may scrape your board.

 

Step 4: TIGHTEN YOUR GEAR

Check your binding bolts and straps; even if you believe everything is in place, simply give each bolt a tug with a screwdriver to ensure they are tight enough. If you have the tools or want to invest a small amount of money in them, you can fix your snowboard easily at home.

It's best if you invest, as these tools will last for seasons to come. If you have a medium grit file, that will work fine, but a Bakoda or Dakine edge tool will work perfectly. Inspect your straps to ensure that the plastic ladders are not broken and that the screws attaching the strap buckles are snug. Furthermore, stock up on spare parts. Keeping a handful of them in your pack or cargo box is also a good idea.

 

STEP 5: CLAIM WARRANTY IF POSSIBLE

If your ski equipment is covered by warranty, then without a doubt, make a second check before the season begins. Before making snowboard repairs, it is crucial to understand what the warranty covers. This will save you time, and professionals will take better care of your ski board. So, check now to see if you can visit the shop before the next season arrives.

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