What surfboard delamination looks like
Delamination is a separation between the board's outer skin and the material beneath it. The area may feel raised, hollow or soft under light pressure.
Written by James Bailey, shaper and maker at Whitburn Studio.
How the separation appears
A delaminated area can look like a bubble under the glass. It may make a hollow sound when tapped or move slightly when pressed. The edge is not always visible, so the affected area can be larger than the obvious lift.
Why it happens
Heat can expand air inside a board and place pressure on the laminate. Water entering through an open ding can also weaken the bond. Repeated compression under the feet, an impact or an earlier repair may contribute.
The cause affects the repair. A dry, local patch is different from a large area over wet foam, and a photograph cannot always show the full extent.
What to do next
Keep the board away from heat and stop water entering through any open crack. Avoid pressing the bubble repeatedly, as this can extend the separation.
Send a photograph of the whole board, a close view of the lifted area and a side angle that shows its height. Mention whether the board feels heavier, whether water has escaped and how long the damage has been present.
James can then decide whether the board can be estimated from the photographs or needs inspection in the workshop.