Skateboards are made of several materials, including plastic, metal, and wood. Each type has its own characteristics that determine how it will hold up in use and what care should be taken when cleaning or maintaining the board.
In this article, we’ll be taking you through how to clean a skateboard and what you should look out for in order to properly maintain your skateboard, regardless of the material.
Cleaning Plastic Boards
The most common material used for skateboarding is plastic. This is because plastic is durable, lightweight, and relatively inexpensive.
It can also be easily shaped into different shapes, which makes it perfect for creating your own unique designs on the board.
However, plastic boards have one major drawback – they get dirty really fast! If you’re planning on skating around town, then plastic might not be the best choice.
But if you plan on using your board at parks, beaches, pools, and other places where there isn’t much going on, then plastic is probably just fine.
- The first step in cleaning a plastic board is to remove any stickers, tape, or residue from the surface. Use rubbing alcohol to wipe away any dirt or grease.
- You may need to apply some pressure with a rag so that all the sticky residue comes off. After this process, let the board air dry before moving on to the next step.
- Next, take a soft cloth and gently scrub the entire length of the board. Make sure to work in small circles so as not to scratch the finish.
- Once you’ve finished scrubbing, rinse the board thoroughly under running water. Be careful not to over-wipe the board as you don’t want to remove too many layers of protective waxes. Let the board dry completely before applying another layer of wax.
If you’re worried about scratching the board, you could always choose a more expensive model. There are plenty of high-quality skateboards available today that cost hundreds of dollars.
These models tend to be very durable and will last for years. They also come with an impressive range of features such as LED lights, better wheels and bearings, and even automatic steering technology.
If you’re looking for a cheap skateboard, then you should consider buying a ready-made deck. A ready-made deck is basically a blank canvas that you customize by adding graphics and writing messages.
Some people like to add their favorite team logo while others prefer to write inspirational quotes. The possibilities are endless!
The Different Parts Of A Skateboard
A good grip tape is essential for keeping your feet secure while riding. Most skateboard decks are constructed with three components: the core, the graphic, and the deck.
The core is usually made out of seven-ply maple and is attached to the underside of the deck. Seven-ply hardwood gives the deck strength and allows it to withstand wear and tear.
Next, the artwork is applied to the top side of the deck. This includes everything from text to images to logos. And finally, the deck is attached via adhesive to the bottom of the core.
In addition to providing support, the deck also provides a smooth ride and helps absorb shock when landing jumps and ramps.
A skateboard consists of a deck, trucks, wheels, hardware, grip tape, and bearings. Skateboards typically range in price between $30 and $100.
Decks vary widely in design, ranging from simple wooden boards to highly customized ones built entirely of carbon fiber and other fancy materials.
Skateboard trucks include a nose (where you stand on the board), a tail (where the two wheels attach), and a middle section called a kingpin.
The wheelbase of a truck is the distance from the center of one wheel’s axle to the opposite corner of its rim. Kingpins can have rounded or pointed ends, which affect turning.
Hardware refers to bolts and plates used to assemble various parts of a skateboard. Grip tape is a thin piece of foam tape that holds the deck to the trucks.
Finally, the bearings are located in the centers of the wheels and allow them to turn. Bearings can either be sealed or loose.
Loose bearings allow movement and make turns easier but are less stable than sealed bearings. Wheels differ based on size. Larger wheels roll faster and are more stable, and smaller wheels are lighter and require less effort to push off of.
The wheels are designed to handle all types of terrain, including pavement, grass, dirt, snow, and ice.
You won’t need any special training to use a skateboard; anyone who has ever walked or run before can learn how to skateboard. However, there are some things that you must know before getting started.
Tips For Purchasing A Skateboard
First, only get a skateboard if you feel comfortable doing so. It’s not something you want to do unless you’re sure you’ll enjoy it. Second, don’t try to force yourself into learning how to skateboard.
Take baby steps at first. Third, choose a skateboard that fits you well. Don’t expect to go fast right away, especially if you haven’t ridden a bike before.
Fourth, once you start skating, always remember to watch where you’re going and what’s around you.
Fifth, practice makes perfect. Keep these tips in mind as you learn how to skateboard, and soon you’ll be cruising through the park like a pro!
Conclusion
Knowing how to properly clean and maintain your skateboard will mean that you are being as safe as possible and will ensure that your skateboard will perform at its best for a longer period of time.
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