How to Store Your Skateboard Deck to Prevent Warping

A skateboard deck is the heart of any skateboard, and if you’re a skater, you know just how important it is to keep your board in top shape. One of the most common issues skateboarders face over time is deck warping. Warping can happen for a variety of reasons, but it often results from improper storage, moisture, or exposure to extreme temperatures.

Unfortunately, once a skateboard deck warps, it can lose its functionality, making it difficult to ride properly. Proper storage of your skateboard deck is essential for maintaining its shape, performance, and longevity. We’ll walk you through how to store your skateboard deck to prevent warping, keeping your board in top-notch condition so you can ride smoothly.

1. What Causes Warping in Skateboard Decks?

Before we dive into how to store your skateboard to prevent warping, it’s important to understand the factors that contribute to warping in the first place. Warping occurs when the shape of the deck changes, typically bending or curving in an unnatural direction. The main causes of warping are:

1. Moisture

Excess moisture is one of the primary causes of skateboard deck warping. Skateboards are usually made from maple wood, which is sensitive to humidity. When your deck absorbs moisture, it can expand and contract, leading to warping. Rain, snow, and even humidity in the air can damage your deck, so keeping it dry is essential.

2. Extreme Temperatures

Just like moisture, temperature changes can cause the wood of your skateboard deck to expand or contract. If your skateboard is stored in places that experience extreme temperature fluctuations (like a car on a hot day or a cold garage), the wood may warp or crack.

3. Pressure or Weight

Storing your skateboard improperly, especially by putting heavy objects on top of it, can cause the deck to bend or distort under pressure. This can happen if you leave your board under heavy furniture or in a cramped storage space where it’s bent or twisted.

4. Improper Storage Position

The way you store your skateboard can also contribute to warping. If a skateboard is stored on its edge or at an awkward angle, it can bend under its own weight. Keeping the skateboard in the wrong position over time will result in long-term warping.

2. Best Ways to Store Your Skateboard Deck

Now that we know what causes warping, let’s take a look at the best ways to store your skateboard deck to prevent it from happening. With proper care and storage techniques, you can keep your deck in great shape for years.

1. Store Your Skateboard in a Dry Place

Moisture is a skateboard’s worst enemy. Storing your skateboard in a damp or humid area can lead to the wood absorbing water, which can cause warping. This is especially true for decks made from natural wood, like maple. Always store your skateboard in a dry environment, free from high humidity or moisture.

Ideal Locations for Dry Storage:

Indoor closet or shelf: A room with a stable temperature and low humidity is ideal.
Skateboard racks: These are great for hanging your skateboard off the floor, away from any potential water or moisture.

Avoid leaving your skateboard in places like the bathroom, basement, or attic, where humidity levels can fluctuate.

2. Avoid Storing Your Deck in Extreme Temperatures

Extreme temperature fluctuations, whether too hot or too cold, can cause your skateboard deck to warp. For example, storing your board in a hot car during the summer months can cause the glue and wood layers to expand, leading to warping. Similarly, storing your board in a cold garage can have a similar effect, causing the wood to contract and become brittle.

Best Practices:

Room temperature: Store your skateboard at room temperature, ideally between 60°F (15°C) and 75°F (24°C).
Avoid storing your skateboard in places that experience extreme heat or cold, such as garages, cars, or outdoors.

3. Store Your Deck Flat

The way you position your skateboard is key to avoiding warping. Storing the deck flat is the best way to ensure that it stays in good shape. When a skateboard is placed flat, it distributes its weight evenly, preventing pressure from building up in one spot.

How to Store Your Deck Flat:

Place your skateboard on a flat surface like a shelf, a horizontal rack, or the floor.
If you store your deck in a skateboard rack, make sure it supports the deck evenly across its width, avoiding pressure on the nose or tail.
If you store your skateboard upright, make sure it’s not leaning at an angle or placed under anything heavy that could apply pressure to the deck.

4. Use a Skateboard Rack or Wall Mount

A skateboard rack or wall mount is a fantastic way to store your board without the risk of warping. These options keep your deck off the ground and away from excessive moisture, dirt, or heavy objects. Most skateboard racks also allow you to store the deck in an upright position, with the board hanging in a way that distributes the weight evenly.

Benefits of a Skateboard Rack:

Keeps your deck off the ground, preventing exposure to moisture or dirt.
Protects your deck from pressure and unwanted weight.
Helps you organize multiple skateboards.

If you don’t have a skateboard rack, you can also hang your skateboard from the wall using wall mounts or hooks, ensuring it’s stored securely and evenly.

5. Don’t Stack Heavy Objects on Top of Your Deck

Avoid stacking heavy objects on top of your skateboard, as this can apply pressure to the deck and cause it to warp over time. If you need to store your skateboard in a tight space, make sure nothing heavy is leaning on it, as this can cause permanent bending or distortion.

Tips for Safe Storage:

Always store your skateboard in a dedicated space where it won’t be crushed or weighed down.
Use a skateboard bag if you need to pack it for travel. This will keep the board protected from damage.

6. Store Your Deck with the Grip Tape Up

If you’re storing your skateboard in a closet or on a shelf, place the skateboard with the grip tape side up. This prevents the grip tape from collecting dust or being damaged by contact with other surfaces. It also ensures that the board’s wood surface is protected and won’t get scratched or scuffed.

3. Maintenance Tips to Further Prevent Warping

Beyond storing your skateboard deck properly, there are a few maintenance tips that can help you keep your deck in great condition and prevent warping over time.

1. Regularly Clean Your Deck

A clean deck is less prone to absorbing moisture, dirt, and grime that can cause wear and tear. Cleaning your skateboard regularly also helps maintain the integrity of the wood.

How to Clean Your Skateboard Deck:

Use a soft cloth to wipe down the deck after each session.
If your deck has built-up dirt or debris, use a mild soap and water solution to gently clean it.
Dry the deck thoroughly with a clean towel after cleaning.

2. Use Wax to Protect the Deck

If you skate on rough surfaces frequently, applying a bit of skateboard wax to your deck can help protect it from moisture and wear. This can also reduce the amount of stress on the deck from harsh landings and slides.

3. Check for Cracks or Damage

Inspect your deck regularly for any signs of cracking or damage. If you notice any issues, it’s best to replace the deck or repair it before it gets worse. Small cracks can worsen over time, leading to more severe warping or breakage.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best temperature to store my skateboard deck?

The best temperature for storing your skateboard deck is between 60°F (15°C) and 75°F (24°C). Avoid places with extreme heat or cold, like a car in the summer or a cold garage.

2. Can I store my skateboard deck in the attic?

No, storing your skateboard in the attic is not recommended because attics are prone to temperature fluctuations and high humidity, both of which can damage your deck.

3. Should I store my skateboard deck flat or upright?

Storing your skateboard flat is the best option to prevent warping. If you need to store it upright, make sure it is securely mounted or placed in a skateboard rack to prevent unnecessary pressure.

4. How can I prevent my skateboard from getting wet in the rain?

Always store your skateboard indoors during wet weather, and use a skateboard cover if you must leave it outside temporarily. Avoid riding your skateboard in the rain whenever possible.

5. How do I know if my skateboard deck is warped?

A warped deck can appear as uneven curves along the surface, which may affect the performance of the board. You can check for warping by placing the skateboard on a flat surface and seeing if it lays evenly.

6. Can a warped skateboard deck be fixed?

In most cases, once a deck is severely warped, it’s hard to fix it. However, if the warp is minor, you can try clamping the deck in the opposite direction of the warp for a period of time, but this is not always effective.

7. How often should I check my skateboard for warping?

You should check your skateboard for warping regularly, especially if you notice any changes in how it rides or if it’s been exposed to moisture or extreme conditions.

5. Conclusion

Proper storage is essential to keeping your skateboard deck in great shape and preventing warping. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this post, you can ensure that your deck stays dry, stable, and free from excessive pressure. Storing your skateboard properly will extend its life and keep it performing at its best. Whether you’re an experienced skater or a beginner, taking a little extra care with your skateboard storage will pay off in the long run.

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