If you have suffered the unfortunate mishap of dinging your board at the start of your session, then there is always a quick fix solution (depending on the size of the fracture). UV cure, suncure, epoxy putty are all terms you need to become familiar with if you're confident enough with some light handy work on the back of the ute, on the beach rocks or at URBN SURF waiting bench. These quick solutions keep you on the wave. Some products rank up with the best professional surfboard repairs. We have UV / Suncure products for both Polyester resin ( recommended for Polyurethane / PU / PE surfboards ) and Epoxy resin ( recommended for EPS / Expanded Polystyrene/ Styrofoam / XPS /Extruded Polystyrene Foam ) repairs.
It is generally not recommended to use polyester resin to repair surfboards laminated with epoxy resin , or vice versa. Epoxy resin and polyester resin have different chemical compositions, and they may not bond well with each other. Proper adhesion is crucial for a strong and durable repair. Here are some general guidelines:
- Epoxy Resin with Epoxy Resin Surfboards::
- If your surfboard is made with an epoxy resin laminate, it's advisable to use epoxy resin for repairs. Epoxy resin bonds well with itself, ensuring a strong and compatible repair.
- Polyester Resin with Polyester Resin Surfboards:
- If your surfboard is made with a polyester resin laminate, you should use polyester resin for repairs. Again, using the same type of resin ensures proper bonding and compatibility. Polyester Resin on a EPS Core board may ‘melt’ the polystyrene.
- Avoid Mixing Resins:
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Mixing polyester resin with epoxy resin or vice versa can lead to poor adhesion, delamination, and a weakened repair. The chemical reactions between the different resins may not create a strong bond.
Using the wrong type of resin for a repair may result in poor adhesion, reduced strength, and other issues. It's crucial to match the repair materials with the original construction materials of the surfboard. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines and recommendations for the specific materials you are working with. If you are unsure about the construction of your surfboard or the appropriate repair materials, it's advisable to consult with Melbourne Surfboard Shop for guidance.
IDENTIFY YOUR CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL
Distinguishing between epoxy and polyurethane surfboards can be a bit challenging, but there are a few methods you can use to identify the construction material:
Weight:
Epoxy boards: Generally, epoxy surfboards are lighter than polyurethane ones. Epoxy is known for being a lighter and more buoyant material.
Polyurethane boards: Polyurethane boards tend to be heavier due to the denser foam used in their construction.
Resin Color:
Epoxy boards: Epoxy surfboards often have a clear or tinted resin coat that allows you to see the foam underneath. The foam is usually white or a light color.
Polyurethane boards: Polyurethane boards are typically glassed with colored resin, and it's more challenging to see the foam core through the glassing.
Flex:
Epoxy boards: Epoxy surfboards generally have a bit more flex than polyurethane boards. If you can press down on the board and feel some give, it might be an epoxy board.
Polyurethane boards: Polyurethane boards tend to be stiffer and provide less flex.
Sound:
Epoxy boards: When tapped, epoxy boards often produce a higher-pitched sound due to their lighter and less dense construction.
Polyurethane boards: Polyurethane boards typically produce a lower-pitched sound when tapped because of their denser foam.
Construction Details:
Epoxy boards: Epoxy boards may have a different construction appearance, with a visible weave pattern on the fibreglass or carbon fibre, and they might have a sandwich construction with EPS foam.
Polyurethane boards: Polyurethane boards usually have a more traditional construction, with a foam core covered by fibreglass cloth and polyester resin.
Manufacturer Information:
Check the manufacturer's specifications or labelling. Some surfboards will have information indicating whether they are epoxy or polyurethane. It's important to note that some modern surfboards may have a combination of epoxy and polyurethane materials, such as an epoxy outer shell with a polyurethane foam core. If you're still uncertain, consult with the surfboard manufacturer or pop into Melbourne Surfboard Shop and we can help clarify the construction of your specific board.