The grip tape is a very significant part of the skateboard. This is because it is the one that confers the grip necessary to stand freely and safely on a board. It is basically a piece of material that is gritty much like sandpaper. It confers this grip by increasing the frictional force, which is necessary and sufficient to enable you to stand unaided. Clean GripTape:
Today We determine how to clean grip tape. Hang with us. Just like every other part and component of the skateboard, this tape also sustains dirt and debris. This dirt reduces the frictional force that exists on the grip tape. This makes it impossible for you to stand unaided and ride safely. It is that you have to clean the grip tape and rid of the said debris. Being a delicate material, you cannot use conventional cleaning procedures, detergents, and items. This is the need we have come in to meet. We will lay bare the procedures and items necessary for this feat to be accomplished.
Tools and Materials Required
As stated, this activity requires unique tools and materials. The following are some of those materials. Please note that some materials can discharge the same purposes.
- Nylon brush
- Old unwanted toothbrush
- Soap, preferably Dawn® soap
- Sponge or rag
- Bowl
How To Clean Grip tape -Step-by-step Procedures
Now follow the procedures stipulated below to actualize the cleaning of the grip tape.
Step I: Fill the Bowl with Water
Start by filling the bowl with water. In most instances, one cup of water will suffice. The amount of water depends on the intensity and extent of the dirt on the tape. Be sure to factor these into consideration as you determine how much water to use.
Step II: Add Detergent
Now add some detergent to the water. Be sparing in your application of the detergent as excessive amounts may lead to worse outcomes. The best soap to use for this purpose is powder soap, as it can easily dissolve in water. Use your old toothbrush to stir the detergent in the water to form a foam.
Step III: Scrub the Grip Tape
Use the toothbrush to scrub the grip tape. Dip it in the detergent and thereafter scrub the surfaces of the grip tape. Do so gently in order not to damage the bristles and get substandard outcomes. Be methodical in your approach to the issue as well. Focus on one area at a time. Once the said area is properly impacted, move on to the next, and so on.
Step IV: Remove Excess Detergents
As soon as you have removed the dirt, you now want to eliminate excess detergents. Dip the toothbrush in clean water and use it to remove excess detergents on the grip tape. Do so severally until the outcome is devoid of any detergent residues.
Step V: Get Rid of Excess Water
Rinse the grip tape surface. Use a sponge or rag to carry out this purpose. Dip the rag or sponge in clean water. Wring it to get rid of water completely. Use it thereafter to wipe off all the moisture from the surfaces of the grip tape. Desist from dragging the sponge on the surface of the grip tape. Complement it by patting the deck to remove excess moisture.
Step VI: Dry
Now leave to dry. Place it in an airy location that need not be out in the open. Within an hour, the grip tape will have dried completely. You can now ride it. Please resist the temptation of using the skateboard before the expiration of the drying time. This is to eliminate the likelihood of inflicting more dirt on the surface.
Also Read: Clean Your Skateboard Wheels
How To Clean Griptape Without Running Tape
To do this, adhere to several other tips and procedures over and above the ones discussed above. These are:
Be Gentle
You should be very gentle in scrubbing and dusting the surface. Do not apply too much force, as this might inflict damage on the various parts and components. You should only apply moderate force while doing so.
Use Mild Detergents
Harsh detergents have the same impacts as too much force. They deteriorate the affected parts and components faster. You should use only the mildest detergents. The Dawn® soap is perhaps the most outstanding of such mild detergents in the market today.
Pour Less Water
You should also spare in your use of water. Excess water may dampen and weaken the joints and seams of the skateboard. Regarding this, the water you use has to cover only those portions of the skateboard that are being cleaned; No other place. Remember also to wipe off the water completely after cleaning.
Be Slow
Last, be slow. Being in a huff will achieve the same aim as being rough. To do this, focus on one portion of the skateboard at a time. This way, you will resist the temptation of rushing to complete cleaning.
Closing Remarks
Well, cleaning and restoring the grip tapes is a very delicate and meticulous undertaking. The procedures outlined and discussed above lay credence to this very fact. Considering this, bring in an expert to help you out. Do this especially if you are uncertain that you will do a good job.You can still follow the procedures above and do a good job though. You should therefore not shy away from taking this step. All the best as you attempt to wash your grip tape!