Skateboards can be an expensive investment, but they can last for years if you take care of them properly. If you want your board to last, it’s important that you know how long skateboards actually last.
If you’re a skateboarder you know that your board is like your best friend. You take it everywhere with you and it’s always there when you need it.
But how long does a skateboard actually last?
With proper care and maintenance a skateboard can last for years. But if you don’t take care of it your board will only last for a few months.
Factors That Affect Skateboard’s Lifespan
There are many factors that affect skateboard life. One of the most important is weather. If it’s raining snowing or the temperature is too cold skating can be difficult or even dangerous. Another factor is terrain. Street skating is very different from skating in a park or a bowl. The type of skateboard you have can also affect your skating experience. Different boards are better for different kinds of skating.
Here, we will discuss the factors that affect skateboard lifespan and how they can be used to prolong your board’s life!
Quality
How do you know a board is of good quality? This can be a tricky question to answer, but there are some ways to tell.
First, look at the price. Is it too expensive? If yes, then it’s probably not worth buying in the first place.
Second, take a look at the materials used in manufacturing the skateboard and pay attention to what they are made of. If they’re too similar to plastic or other cheap materials that won’t last long on a road covered with bumps and cracks (like what happens when you’re skating), then this isn’t necessarily an indication that your board is low quality—just that there are better options out there for you!
Thirdly: check if there any visible signs of wear-and-tear from use over time (e.g., scratches). The best way to see if something has been well-made with high standards is by checking how well it holds up under pressure; however if nothing seems wrong after scrutinizing closely enough even then maybe consider trying again before giving up altogether!
Read: The best way to put a skateboard on a backpack
Durability
- The type of materials used to make the skateboard. A typical skateboard deck is made from a hardwood maple or seven-ply maple, which is then shaped into a concave surface. Other types of wood can also be used, such as bamboo and fiberglass.
- The quality of the materials used in construction. Cheap skates are often made with low quality materials that don’t stand up well to impact and stress over time, but there are plenty of high end options out there as well! You’ll want to consider where you plan on skating your board most often before buying so that you get one that will last longer under whatever conditions come its way during use.
- The quality of the bearings inside each set up before purchasing anything new – whether it’s just wheels or trucks too! These bearings will help determine how smoothly your board rolls along when riding it down hills or through puddles at high speeds; these things matter! There should be no slippage when turning corners either; this would indicate faulty hardware somewhere along its tracks so avoid these types–unless they’re cheap enough not worth replacing them anyway (which won’t happen anytime soon because nobody wants cheap stuff!).
Size
There are a few factors that come into play when deciding on the size of your skateboard. If you’re just starting out, you’ll want to choose a smaller board that is easier to maneuver and control. This will make it easier for you to learn how to ride, as well as give you more control and balance when riding at higher speeds.
Meanwhile, if you’re an experienced rider who is looking for something with more stability and speed capabilities, then a larger deck may be for you. Larger decks are also great because they help keep your feet locked in place while riding—which can make things like ollies much easier!
However, these larger boards don’t come without their disadvantages: they’re more difficult to carry around if necessary (such as when traveling), and they take up more space in storage than their smaller counterparts (which makes them harder to store in apartments).
Skateboard Usage
You should understand that skateboarding can be a rough sport. The materials used to make a skateboard are not made to last forever, and you will find yourself replacing them from time to time. Skateboard decks are made with pressed wood, which makes them very durable but also susceptible to cracking when hit with force or twisted too tightly by your feet. This can happen even if you’re just getting on and off the board, so it’s important that you keep an eye on the condition of your deck throughout its lifespan.
If you do decide that skating is for you, please be careful about where and how often you are riding. Because most skaters tend toward cruising around town at low speeds with their friends on weekend nights (and during all other hours as well), they tend to prefer slippery surfaces such as sidewalks or smooth roads without cracks or bumps where they can keep their speed up while still avoiding traffic hazards like parked cars or pedestrians crossing the street without looking both ways first.
A skateboard will last longer if it is well-made.
A skateboard is made from a deck, the trucks and wheels. The wheels are usually urethane and the trucks and decks are made of different types of wood or synthetic materials. For example, skateboard decks are usually 7 layers of maple, bamboo and carbon fiber which is then pressed together to make one strong piece of material that can be shaped into any shape desired by the skater. Skateboard wheels are typically made from polyurethane although there have been attempts to create other types of wheel materials such as glass for example but these were not very popular because they did not perform well on rough surfaces like concrete sidewalks.
Wood Quality
There are many factors that affect the lifespan of a skateboard, but one that can’t be overlooked is wood quality.
Wood quality refers to how resistant the wood is to cracking and warping. A good skateboard will have high-quality wood and thus be more durable than an inferior product with poor-quality materials. The same goes for heat: if you’re skating in hot weather or on a hot surface like asphalt, then it’s important that your deck does not warp or crack due to moisture buildup inside its pores (due either directly from sweat or indirectly through condensation).
Shape Of Deck
A flat deck is the most common type of skateboard, and it’s what you’ll see in almost every video game or movie. The front of the deck is flat and smooth, while the backside has a kicktail that allows you to do tricks like ollies and kickflips.
Popsicle decks are similar to flat boards but have wider rims and less concave areas on them (the middle section where your feet sit). These decks are great for beginners because they’re easier than other styles of skating.
The kicktail can be used as an extension from the bottom of a pop-top shaped board with an elevated nose piece; this design allows riders to perform tricks such as carves without having their legs interfere with their balance during turns or landings
Brand Of Truck
The brand of truck is a big factor in longevity. If a skateboard has a cheap, flimsy or poorly made truck, it will break down sooner than one that has a high-quality one.
The quality of the wheels and bearings can also affect how long your board lasts. A good set of wheels and bearings will keep you rolling smoothly for years to come while an old set might snap after only a few months of use!
A better deck means less wear on all other parts as well, so if you have something like this on your board then things like bushings (the rubber part inside) won’t wear out as quickly either which makes sense since they’re not actually touching anything else but air anyway…
Wheels
The wheels are the most important part of any skateboard. They provide the basic support for your deck and help you slide across the ground.
The type of wheel you choose will depend on how much grip you want on the pavement, as well as what size and shape works best with your particular deck setup. There are three main types: plastic, urethane, and polyurethane (PU).
Plastic wheels often have a smooth outer shell so they don’t wear down easily; however they’re not very resilient when it comes to long term durability due to their weak construction methods which can cause them breakage over time if abused too much while skating around town! This is why many pros prefer using metal-backed plastic ones instead because they’re much stronger than regular ones without sacrificing comfortability either way.”
Assembly Of Components
The skateboard is assembled using a few different components. The most important of these components is the deck, which is what all of your wheels will rest on when you ride it. There are different types of decks, but we’ll focus on the standard one here.
The next thing that needs to be built is a pair of trucks (or “trucks”). These fittings attach to both sides of your board and help keep everything in place while riding—they’re also known as “mounts,” since they allow you to mount things like lights or other attachments onto them. If you want to add anything else onto your deck once it’s built (like grip tape), then you’ll also need some sort of hardware for attaching those things before assembling anything else!
Environmental Challenges
You may have noticed that your skateboard is getting old. Perhaps it’s been around for a while, or perhaps you just picked up a new one recently and want to know how long they last before they break down. The answer depends on many factors, including environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity and UV exposure.
The best way to find out how long your skateboard will last is by taking care of it properly so that it lasts longer than expected. Here are some tips:
- Keep the board away from water whenever possible; moisture will cause damage over time (more on this below).
- Avoid storing the board in direct sunlight; ultraviolet rays can weaken plastics used in construction which could lead to cracking or breaking off parts at joints during use later on down the line! (This also applies if you store outside.)
Do not leave your skateboard outside overnight unless there’s snow covering top surface area—this could cause condensation build-up inside container causing mold growth within days time frame!
Living Environment
Where you live?
If you live somewhere warm with plenty of sunshine this will cause oxidation in the metal parts which means that rusting may occur faster than if they were kept indoors where it was cooler all year round!
Poor Riding Style
- Don’t ride with a lot of force. This is the most obvious one, but you should also avoid riding too fast, or with too much weight on your board.
- Don’t ride with too much pressure on the wheels. If you’re trying to get more speed out of your board by putting more effort into moving it along the ground, this could cause damage and make it harder for you to control—and potentially dangerous if something happens while driving at high speeds!
- Don’t make sharp turns or jumps while riding because they’ll put extra strain on both sides of each wheel-bearing assembly and can cause them wear down faster than usual (and eventually break).
Low Build Quality
Low build quality can be caused by low quality parts and materials. Low quality parts can be caused by low quality materials, and vice versa.
The two most common reasons for a skateboard to break down are poor manufacturing processes, or bad materials used in their construction. Skateboards are made from many different types of wood, fiberglass and plastic that have different properties depending on the type of wood used (laminate vs solid). If you break down a skateboard with cheap woods like pine or cedar, it will probably hold up longer than one made with premium hardwoods like mahogany or ash.
Lack Of Maintenance
Regularly clean the deck: A neglected skateboard can quickly become gummed up with dirt and debris. Keep it clean by regularly wiping down your board, especially in areas where you’re likely to be scraping against walls, floors or other hard surfaces.
Check bolts and nuts: Bolts and nuts are often left loose because they’re hidden under the deck of a skateboard—but if they aren’t tightened properly, they’ll loosen over time and allow your board to wobble around on its wheels when riding downhill. Make sure that all bolts are tight before you head out for a session at the park or street!
Check wheels: Wheels wear down over time due to friction against their bearings (the part inside each wheel where bearings connect), so make sure that no matter how old your skateboard is there’s still good contact between each wheel’s axle and frame (or “hull”). If there isn’t enough room for both axles then one will be rubbing against something else inside like metal rails above ground level which could cause damage over time if ignored by riders who don’t know better.
How Long Do Skateboards Last: Lifespan of Skateboard Hardware
Lifespan of a Skateboard Deck
The lifespan of a skateboard deck depends on the wood used, and how long you ride it. It can last for more than a year if it’s made of durable wood like maple or bamboo. If your deck has been in one piece for a while and it still rides well, you should be able to get some good use out of it even after the wheels wear out.
If your skateboard deck starts to show signs of wear-and-tear (i.e., cracks or broken parts), then it’s probably time to replace the board entirely so that you don’t risk hurting yourself when riding on an unsafe surface.
Lifespan of a Skateboard Wheel
Skateboard wheels are composed of urethane. The lifespan of a skateboard wheel is determined by how often it is used and the type of terrain it is used on. A skateboard wheel typically lasts between 2-4 weeks, but there are some factors that can affect this time period.
If the wheels are used too often and/or in rough terrains, they will become worn out faster than if they were used less frequently on smoother surfaces. Skateboarding creates friction against obstacles as you ride over them, so it’s important to note how much wear and tear your wheels go through when determining their lifespan.
The hardness of the wheel also affects its lifespan, with harder wheels lasting longer than softer wheels.
The quality of the wheel is a big factor in how long they will last. Low-end wheels will wear out fairly quickly and need to be replaced within a year, while high-quality wheels may last up to three years before needing replacement.
Lifespan of a Skateboard Bearing
The average lifespan of a skateboard bearing is two to three years. Bearings are the most important part of your skateboard, as they are what connects you to the ground and allows you to make turns.
The lifespan of skateboard bearings is directly related to how well they are maintained. Bearings are made up of a steel ball and a ring that holds them in place. When the balls roll freely, they allow your board to turn easily, but if they become worn or clogged with dirt or grime, they can cause friction on your board which will slow you down and make riding more difficult.
Bearings can be easily damaged if not cleaned regularly, so it’s important to keep them clean and lubricated at all times. The best way to do this is by removing them from your board with an Allen wrench or screwdriver, cleaning them in warm soapy water (make sure not to use any harsh chemicals or solvents), drying them with a towel and re-lubricating them using some skateboard lubricant.
You should regularly clean and lubricate your bearings so they remain in good shape. If you don’t clean them often enough or apply too much oil (or even worse – water!), then over time the balls will wear down which will decrease the smoothness of turning and make your ride less enjoyable.
Lifespan of a Skateboard Truck
A skateboard truck is the metal T-shaped piece that connects the wheels to the deck of a skateboard.
The average lifespan of a skateboard truck is approximately 3-6 months with proper care, but can last much longer with infrequent use.
Skateboard trucks are made of aluminum, which is a durable metal that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. However, the kingpins, which are the small metal rods that connect the trucks to the deck, are susceptible to breaking if they are not maintained properly.
Trucks are the axle of any skateboard. The axle is what the wheels are attached to, and it allows the rider to move forward on their board. Trucks can be made from many different materials, but most likely they will be metal (usually steel).
Lifespan Of Skateboard Grip Tape
Skateboard grip tape is a must-have for any skateboarder, and it has a lifespan of about three to six months. Grip tape is applied to the top of the skateboard deck and provides traction for the skater’s feet. When the grip tape becomes worn, it needs to be replaced in order to continue providing traction. Grip tape is available in a variety of colors and designs, so skaters can personalize their boards.
Lifespan of a Skateboard Bushings
Skateboard bushings are small, round pieces of rubber that fit inside the trucks of a skateboard. They act as cushions between the trucks and the deck, and help to absorb shock when landing tricks. Skateboard bushings typically last between 6 and 12 months, depending on how often they are used.
The life span of skateboards depends on the materials used to make them and how often they’re used.
The life span of a skateboard depends on a variety of factors, including the quality of the materials used to make it and how often you use your board.
Often, high-quality decks will last longer than low-quality ones. The same is true for bushings and wheels. If you ride frequently or in a rough environment — like outdoors or near water — then you’ll want to invest in higher-quality gear. A good rule of thumb is that if you want to extend the life span of your skateboard deck, go with something made from seven ply maple instead of five ply maple. This can help prevent warping and cracking over time since more layers mean better durability.
Tips To Increase Skateboard Lifespan
The best way to increase the lifespan of your skateboard is to make sure that you’re not abusing it. Don’t go too hard on it by riding it into curbs, hitting things, or sliding around on rough surfaces. It’s also important not to take your board into skateparks, street riding, parks and schools because all of these environments can cause damage to the board.
Here are some additional tips for you:
- Use a skateboard that is the right size.
- Use a skateboard that is the right quality.
- Use a skateboard that is in good condition, and unmodified unless you know what you are doing.
- If possible, use a skateboard that has been approved by your local or state government for use on public property (such as sidewalks).
- To extend the lifespan of your skateboard it is important to take care of it. Here are some tips:
- Wash your skateboard regularly with soap and water.
- Be sure to dry it completely after washing.
- Store your skateboard in a cool dry place.
- Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures.
- Do not leave your skateboard in direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time.
- Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight as this can cause the deck to warp.
- If you’re not using it for a while store it in a cool dry place out of direct sunlight.
- When cleaning your skateboard use a soft cloth and avoid harsh chemicals.
- Regularly check for any loose bolts or screws and tighten them as needed.
- Avoid riding in wet conditions as much as possible.
- When you do need to replace parts on your skateboard make sure to use high-quality parts that are designed for skateboarding.
- Be careful when transporting your skateboard and avoid dropping it or subjecting it to other forms of impact that could damage it.
By following these simple tips you can help extend the life of your skateboard and enjoy it for years to come!
Don’t feel like you should replace your whole setup every year…
With that said, it’s important to note that you don’t have to replace your whole setup every year. If you’re riding a set-up for a long time, don’t go too hard on it. Don’t feel like you should replace your whole setup every year just because people are telling you that it’s the best way to get a new skateboard.
If anything, we recommend buying replacement parts instead of buying new decks or trucks every time something breaks or wears down. Skateboards are meant to be used and abused so don’t be afraid of having some dings in the bottom of your board from grinding on rails or curbs (that’s what makes them unique!).
How Often Should You Replace Your Skateboard?
You should replace your skateboard every few years, depending on how often you use it. If you use it regularly, you may need to replace it more often. You should also inspect your skateboard regularly for any damage or wear and tear.
There are a few factors to consider when deciding how often you should replace your skateboard.
- Wheels – If your wheels are flat or worn out, it’s time to buy new ones. Skateboarders have a saying: “You can’t get air without wheels.” And while this popular saying isn’t exactly true (you can still get air without wheels), replacing them will make it easier to perform tricks and will give you more control over the board.
- Bearings – Your bearings are the parts that let your wheels spin freely on the axle of your trucks. As they wear out, it becomes harder and harder for you to ride smoothly without falling off constantly! You’ll know when it’s time for new bearings because they squeak loudly as they move around in their housings when you try riding with them; if this happens often enough, then chances are good that those bearings need replacing ASAP before any other part gets damaged too badly by excessive wear-and-tear during use over long periods of time (we’re talking years here).
- Deck – If there’s any damage at all on top of where riders stand when riding their boards then chances are good that repairing/replacing would put off having fun riding.
FAQs
Can skateboards last forever?
Skateboards are made of a variety of materials, which determine how long they last. As with any product, the quality of the materials used in your skateboard will affect its lifespan. This includes:
- The type of wood used for the deck (softwood or hardwood)
- The material that makes up your trucks and wheels
- The glue that holds it together
How Do You Know When You Need A New Skateboard?
The answer to this question is not as simple as it might seem. There are a number of factors that you need to take into account before you can answer it definitively. For example how often do you skate? If you only skate occasionally then you might not need a new skateboard as often as someone who skates every day. The wear and tear on your skateboard will also depend on the type of skating you do. If you mostly stick to street skating then your board will last longer than if you were doing a lot of tricks and flips at the skate park.
You need a new skateboard when your old one no longer pops when the trucks are rusty or when the deck is warped. You also need a new skateboard if you’re not happy with your current setup or if you’re progressing and want to upgrade to a better board.
Other factors to consider include the quality of your skateboard and how well you take care of it. A high-quality board that is well-maintained can last for years even with heavy use. On the other hand a cheaply made board or one that is not properly cared for will need to be replaced much sooner.
The average lifespan of a skateboard is about three to six months although this will depend on how often you use it and how well you take care of it. You may need to replace your skateboard sooner if you do a lot of tricks or ride it in rough terrain. You’ll also need to replace parts of your skateboard periodically such as the grip tape bearings and wheels. If you’re not sure whether you need a new skateboard or just new parts take it to a local skate shop for an inspection.
Do skateboard decks wear out?
A skateboard deck’s durability depends on the quality of its components. Decks made from higher-quality materials such as bamboo or maple will last longer than those made from cheaper, thinner wood, plastic or fiberglass composites. Skateboard decks can be replaced when they wear out or break, but you can also buy replacement grip tape to repair your board’s surface and make it look good as new!
Do skateboards break easily?
Skateboards are made out of a variety of materials, but they all have one thing in common: they won’t last forever. The more you skate, the more likely it is that your skateboard will break. Skateboards with a lot of moving parts such as trucks and wheels are going to wear down faster than those without them. If you’re just cruising around town for fun, this isn’t too much of an issue—but if you’re doing tricks on your board or trying to get anywhere fast with it (like downhill), then it’s best that you replace worn-out parts as soon as possible so that everything stays together and working properly.
Why Do Skateboard Wheels Turn Yellow?
Skateboard wheels turn yellow for a number of reasons. The most common reason is due to the oxidation process. Oxidation is when the molecules in the rubber of the skateboard wheel interact with oxygen in the air and create a chemical reaction. This reaction causes the molecules in the rubber to break down, which changes the color of the wheel from its original white color to yellow. Another reason why skateboard wheels may turn yellow is due to exposure to UV rays from the sun. The UV rays cause the molecules in the rubber to break down, which also changes the color of the wheel.
How to Extend the Period of Use?
If you want to extend the period of use, there are some things that you can do.
- Use a skateboard wax: A good skateboard wax will keep your board from getting chipped or cracked. It also helps protect it against moisture and other elements that could damage its surface. The best way to apply a new layer of wax is by rubbing it onto the surface with an old rag or cloth. You shouldn’t use too much pressure when applying this product because doing so might cause cracks in your deck!
- Keep your board away from heat sources: Heat can make wooden boards brittle and cause them to warp over time; therefore, try not put them directly under direct sunlight for long periods of time (especially during summer). This may seem obvious but many people forget about this important tip when buying new skates or sticks!
Final Words…
So, should you get a new skateboard every year? The answer is probably not. The best way to know when it’s time for a new board is just by feeling it out. If your board feels worn out and won’t hold a grind anymore or if it just doesn’t feel right under your feet, then maybe now’s the time for an upgrade!
So, the question we’re asking ourselves here is: how long does skateboard last? And the answer is: it depends on many factors! Not just how often you ride your board, but also what kind of riding environment you have access to (a concrete street vs grassy park), and whether or not you take good care of your equipment.
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