I was wondering if those that are more knowledgable with board materials than I could help me out with some construction options for myself. I’m a big guy and my poor boards pay the price for that unfortunately in the form of deck dings and such. I have tried EPS/epoxy boards to help remedy my board destruction, but for me personally I do not like the way they float especially in onshore conditions which I surf in a lot of the time. I know I could always go heavy on the glass of a PU board, but I do not entirely suck and I don’t really appreciate the extra weight when I’m trying to throw the board around the wave.
Basically I want a board that feels like a PU, is lightweight, and sturdy. Is this an impossible request?
Recently I have been pointed in the direction of S-glass as a ding resistant option. I have a few questions about S-glass: How much extra would it cost to use on a shortboard? Does is make boards heavier? Is it too stiff? Do most board manufacturers even use this option?
Thank you and any replies would be greatly appreciated.
Average price per yard for 6oz S is usually $2-3 more per yard than standard 6oz. E. Haven't checked with a glass shop in a while to see what an S lamination cost differential would be. Usually the deck 6oz S lapped, combined with a 4oz. E or Warp to the rail is most common. Lapping S takes a little more effort and care so there is a labor cost involved. I can't imagine a shop charging yardage cost only with no additional labor. You might check Waterman's Guild or Moonlight's website. They may have S listed in their pricing. If you want a deck that goes considerably longer without the denting a big guy would normally get with a standard 4 and 6oz. E; S is a reasonably priced way to go.
S glass is certainly an option, and it is used in surfboard construction, but more commonly in sailboards that take a lot more pounding. But it costs more than twice as much as E glass for the same weight. It does produce a stronger laminate by about 40%, and it is somewhat stiffer.
Make a Timberflex construction style board. EPS core, glass under veneer, light glass over. see resources for full description.
Keep the glass light on the rails...and don't let anyone run into you....watch slamming it into trees and door jams and it will be tough. I've been surfing one for about 2 years now and it's held up really well.
I know the build is kind of a bitching point for some here, but it's not that much more time consuming to build than a regular board. The deck will support your generous frame...and not look like a golf ball.
It's so easy..heres a couple of puke kids making one!? Don't look too close...It's pre hotcoat
