How do I know if my SUP board is leaking?

To determine if your SUP board is leaking, it is important to regularly inspect for any signs of air loss. This can be caused by a drop in temperature, leading to a reduction in air pressure. 

If you suspect a leak, inflate the board and rub it with soap or washing-up liquid. Where bubbles appear, there is a leak which needs to be sealed.

How do you detect a leaking SUP board?

Take the SUP board out of the water and drain it, then inflate the board again and observe if any bubbles appear. It is advisable to use a soap or washing-up liquid, use this to look for bulges that may indicate a leak. 

If you notice one or more of these signs, it is important to fix the leak or maintenance committed to prevent further damage and ensure the enjoyment of supping.

Causes & solutions for a leaking SUP board

A leaking stand-up paddleboard (SUP) is a common problem among sup enthusiasts. There are several causes that can cause a board to leak, ranging from natural wear and tear to errors in use. 

Some common causes include damage from sharp objects during transport or storage, overuse of, for example, a Used SUP board and exposure to extreme weather conditions, such as UV radiation or high temperatures.

Below, we have listed the most common issues:

• Leaky valve: when you have a leaky valve, it means air is escaping past the valve or the valve is no longer closing properly. This can have several causes, including:
  • Ageing, with the valve eventually wearing out
  • Excessive air pressure, where inflating the board above the recommended PSI has suffered permanent damage, such as a broken valve
  • Loose valve, which can be easily fixed using a specific valve spanner from a repair kit.
• Broken PVC layer: if the SUP board is worn out, it is usually a small hole through which air escapes. In this case, you have the choice of repairing the board yourself with a repair kit (read up thoroughly first!) or taking it to a SUP repair company.
  • Sharp object: when the SUP board has a leak due to a sharp object, it is important to determine how big the hole is. A small hole is still relatively easy to repair, while a large hole is almost impossible. For example, a hole the size of a thumb will be very difficult to repair.
• Manufacturing defect: of course, a manufacturing defect can also be the cause of a leaking SUP board. Do you expect this to be the case with your board? Contact the seller you bought the board from.

Last updated on 03/02/2023