How to Dry and Repair a Waterlogged Soft-Top or Fiberglass Surfboard

Can You Dry a Waterlogged Surfboard?

A waterlogged surfboard—whether a soft-top foamie or a fiberglass PU board—is significantly heavier, harder to maneuver, and can deteriorate over time. Many surfers wonder if drying out their board is possible and whether it’s worth the effort. The short answer? Yes, but with limitations.

• How to dry a soft-top surfboard

• How to repair a waterlogged fiberglass board

• Preventative tips to extend your board’s lifespan

How to Dry a Waterlogged Soft-Top Surfboard

Unlike fiberglass boards, soft-top surfboards are made of EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam encased in a slick bottom and a soft deck. Once water seeps in, drying it completely is challenging. However, you can minimize damage and extend usability with these steps:

Step 1: Identify Water Damage

• Is your board heavier than usual? A significant weight increase is a sign of water absorption.

• Check for cracks, dents, or punctures—these are entry points for water.

• Does your board smell bad? Trapped saltwater can lead to bacteria growth and a funky odor.

Step 2: Drying Process

1. Find a warm, dry area. Store your board indoors or in a shaded, ventilated area to prevent excessive UV damage.

2. Place the board foam-side down. This allows water to drain from the foam instead of being trapped.

3. Let gravity do the work. Over the next few days to weeks, water beads may form and evaporate.

4. Check for continued leaks. If your board keeps releasing water over time, the foam is saturated and may not fully dry.

Step 3: Should You Keep Using a Waterlogged Soft-Top?

If drying takes months and the board still feels heavy, it may be time for a replacement. Soft-tops are not designed for long-term repairs, and once water infiltrates, it will likely continue absorbing moisture.

Pro Tip: Always dry your foamie after every session to slow down water absorption!

How to Fix a Waterlogged Fiberglass Surfboard

For fiberglass PU (polyurethane) foam boards, waterlogging is repairable if handled correctly.

Step 1: Assess the Damage

• Look for dings, cracks, or yellowed glass where water may have entered.

• Scrape off wax to uncover hidden damage.

• If your board is significantly heavier than usual, it’s likely holding water.

Step 2: Remove Water

1. Cut away damaged fiberglass. Use a sharp knife to expose the wet foam.

2. Flush with freshwater. This helps remove trapped salt, which can degrade the foam.

3. Allow to dry completely. Store the board in a dry, shaded area for at least a week. Using a vacuum technique or silica packs may help speed up the process.

Step 3: Repair the Board

1. Prep the area. Sand the edges around the damaged section.

2. Apply resin or filler. Use epoxy resin for EPS foam or polyester resin for PU foam.

3. Re-glass with multiple layers. Apply 3-4 layers of fiberglass cloth, making each layer larger than the previous.

4. Hot coat and sand. Once cured, sand it smooth to match the board’s shape.

Your board should now be watertight and ready to shred!

Preventing Future Water Damage

• Check your board after every surf session for dings or soft spots.

• Avoid leaving your board in direct sunlight, as heat expands trapped water, worsening damage.

• Use a board bag to protect it from dings and UV rays.

• If you see damage, fix it ASAP! The longer you wait, the more water will seep in.

Final Thoughts

Drying a soft-top is difficult, but draining as much water as possible can extend its usability. Fiberglass boards, however, can often be saved if water damage is caught early and repaired correctly. Prevention is key—regular maintenance will keep your board light, fast, and surf-ready.