![]() ![]() The Best Bumpers for Stress-free Dockingĭon’t let the fear of bumping into your dock keep you from enjoying your boat – give yourself peace of mind by investing in quality dock bumpers and fenders. For example, Fend-All backs all of their boat bumpers with a 3-year warranty. To get the most out of your investment, look for brands that offer warranties. In any case, it’s better to play it safe and replace your bumpers if you notice any significant dents or cracks. Quality PVC bumpers can last up to a decade, but materials like rubber and foam may only last a few years before they start to become worn. ![]() Just how long do they last, and when should you replace them? Stainless steel is a bit more expensive than metal, but it will fare much better in a marine environment.īetween shifting tides and imperfect boaters, your dock bumpers will take quite the beating. Attach the bumpers using stainless steel screws.Once in place, mark where the holes should go and predrill. Every dock is different, so you may need to cut your dock bumpers to the appropriate length.To install post dock bumpers, measure both the length and the width of the post to ensure a proper fit. You should also measure the distance between the dock and the water so that you can make sure your bumper won’t be submerged. Measure the length of the area where you want to install the bumper.Installing dock bumpers is simple – most can be installed in 30 minutes or less without any professional help. If your dock has pilings, traditional dock bumpers can be mounted vertically to protect them. For corners, you can use corner bumpers or mountable dock wheels to ensure a safe docking experience. ![]() Last ly, you’ll want to protect your dock’s corners and pilings. If you have a larger vessel, you may want to consider a more heavy-duty PVC dock siding or piling bumper protection. If you have a small motorboat, you could use foam dock siding or corner bumpers. You should also determine how big your boat is and the potential impact it could have on a dock. The area where your boat could potentially collide with the slip head-on should receive extra cushioning. If you have a boat slip, you have three points of contact to worry about. So, what type should you buy, and where should you place them?įirst, consider where the most likely impact points will be. You want to make sure your boat is protected, but you also don’t want to waste money on excess bumpers you don’t need. Just be careful if you have a fiberglass boat – rubber will scuff the hull. Rubber: Recycled rubber tires are low-friction, UV resistant, inexpensive, and can absorb high impacts.It will succeed in protecting your boat and dock, but may chip or discolor over time. Foam: While this is one of the cheaper dock bumper options, it is also the one that is least likely to fare well over time.Likely will not discolor, and will last many years. Vinyl: Designed to withstand changing climates.PVC: Designed to stand up to any climate, PVC is also made to withstand sea salt, UV rays, and ice.Depending on your needs, a certain material may work better for you than others – the pros and cons of each are listed below. The bumper’s protective outer layer can be made out of rubber, foam, vinyl, or PVC. Available in a variety of sizes and materials, you can create a custom solution that works best for your boat and the location of your dock. The cost of repairs depends on the vessel, but a hole or gash in a fiberglass boat can cost anywhere from $75 to $400, and larger repairs can easily cost thousands of dollars.īoat dock bumpers are an affordable way to prevent this type of damage. By preparing for the inevitable, you’ll avoid having to pay for expensive boat repairs or worse, embarrassing yourself at a busy marina. ![]() Whether you’re a beginner boater or a seasoned sailor, everyone hits the dock at one point or another. While this guide focuses on their marine application, dock bumpers can also be used to protect loading docks from accidental tractor-trailer impacts. Bumpers help to protect boats from damage, whether that damage is caused by cruising into the dock too quickly or inclement weather jostling a vessel at anchor. What Are Dock Bumpers?Ī dock bumper (also called a dock fender) is a shock-absorbing device that can be attached to your dock. They are an investment that will extend the lifespan of your dock, save your boat from damage, and allow you to cast off with confidence. Boat dock bumpers are a marine accessory that should not be overlooked. ![]()
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