How to Fix a Cracked Skateboard: 06 Easy Steps For Beginners!

A cracked skateboard is every skateboarder’s worst nightmare. Riding with a cracked board can be risky and ruin your performance. If you have a small Crack on your skateboard, then don’t be late! It’s time to fix them. Otherwise, this small crack can break your favorite skateboard! But the question is, How to fix a cracked skateboard? Don’t worry! you’ve come to the right place!

Today, I’m going to show you exactly how to repair your board. Then, you can be ready to ride again. Trust me, you don’t need much time or special tools. Anyone can do it! 

Are you ready to fix it? So, Grab that cracked board, and Let’s dive in!

Why Do Skateboards Crack?

Skateboards crack because of constant stress. When you land an impressive skateboard trick or jump, the deck takes all the impact. Over time, this weakens the wood. If you’re landing rough or your board gets wet, cracks can show up faster. Sometimes, poor-quality materials can be the culprit. Cracks usually start small, but they’ll grow if you don’t fix them. 

Why You Need to Fix a Cracked Skateboard?

Fixing a crack in your skateboard is essential to keep it safe. Even a tiny crack can grow if you ignore it. Eventually, it might break while you’re skateboarding, and that could lead to an injury.  It also saves money since you won’t need a new deck. So, when you see a crack, fix it quickly. It’s easy, and your board will stay strong for your tricks!

Types of Skateboard Cracks

Not all cracks are the same. Some are safe to fix. Others mean your board is done. Knowing the difference keeps you safe and helps your board last longer.

01. Hairline Cracks – Small but Worth Watching

Hairline cracks are tiny lines on the deck’s surface. You’ll spot them near the nose, tail, or by the trucks. These cracks look scary, but won’t affect how your board rides, at least not right away.

02. Pressure Cracks – A Warning Sign Near the Trucks

Pressure cracks start at the base of the trucks. They show up after hard landings or if your trucks are too tight. These cracks are deeper than hairline ones and can grow over time.

03. Delamination – Layers Peeling Apart

Delamination is when the layers of wood start to split. You’ll often see this on old boards or ones that got wet. The deck might feel spongy or soft in those spots.

04. Deep Cracks – Unsafe to Ride

A deep crack cuts across the deck or goes through the wood. These are dangerous and often can’t be fixed. They weaken the board and make tricks unsafe.

Now that you know the different types of cracks, let’s jump into the fun part: how to fix a cracked skateboard step by step!

Tools and Materials Needed to Fix a Cracked Skateboard

Before you begin, gather the tools and materials you’ll need to fix a cracked skateboard:

• Epoxy or wood glue

• Sandpaper (medium grit)

• Putty scraper or flat tool

• Clamps or heavy objects

• Grip tape (optional)

• Knife or blade

• Clean cloth

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix a Cracked Skateboard

Ready to bring your cracked skateboard back to life? Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to fixing your board. This guide is easy to follow, even if you’ve never done repairs before. Stick with it, and your skateboard will be strong and ready to ride again in no time! Let’s get started! 

Step 01: Examine the Damage

Before starting the repair, look closely at the crack. Small cracks are easier to fix than deep or wide ones. Identifying the damage helps you plan the best fix.

First of all, inspect the crack. Is it shallow or deep? Stand on the board to see if it feels unstable. If it’s hard to balance, repair is necessary. Remove the trucks and wheels so you can work on the deck quickly.

Step 02: Clean and Prepare the Deck

Preparing the deck ensures the repair material sticks well. Cleaning removes dust and debris from the cracked area. Here’s how you clean and prepare the deck:

• Use a knife or blade to clear debris from the crack. Remove loose wood.

• Sand around the crack for a smooth bonding surface.

• Wipe the crack with a cloth to remove dust.

Step 03: Apply Epoxy or Glue

This step is key to fixing the crack. Applying adhesive fills the gap and restores strength. You can apply epoxy or wood glue:

• Pick a strong adhesive made of wood.

• Spread the glue generously along the crack. Use a putty scraper to press it into the split.

• Wipe off extra glue with a damp cloth.

Step 4: Clamp and Dry

Clamping holds the crack together while the glue dries. Drying time is crucial for a strong bond. Now, secure the repair:

• Use clamps to press the cracked area together. If you don’t have clamps, use a heavy object.

• Let the board dry for at least 24 hours in a cool place.

Step 05: Sand and Finish

Finally, finish the repair. Sanding smooths the repaired area, making the deck ready for use. This step removes any rough edges left by glue. 

• Remove the clamps after drying.

• Sand the repaired area until it’s smooth.

• Add grip tape if needed to cover the repaired spot.

Step 06: How to Test the Repaired Skateboard

Once everything is done, reattach the trucks and wheels. Then, ride the board on a flat surface to test its balance and stability.

• Check Balance: Stand on the board and rock back and forth. Recheck the repair if it feels unstable.

• Turn Test: Try turning. If stiff, adjust the kingpin on the trucks.

• Stress Test: Do small jumps to check if the repair holds up.

Preventing Future Cracks

It’s better to prevent cracks than to fix them. Follow these tips:

• Avoid Water: Keep your board dry. Water weakens wood and causes warping.

• Land Properly: Learn proper landing techniques to reduce stress.

• Inspect Regularly: Check for damage after heavy use.

• Use Protective Layers: Add fiberglass tape for extra durability.

FAQs About a Cracked Skateboard

Overall

Fixing a cracked skateboard is simple with the right steps. Use this guide to repair cracks and ride safely again. Finally, test your board thoroughly before skating and follow tips to prevent future cracks. 

Explore more skateboarding tips on our website for a smooth ride every time!