SHOP DOCK FENDERS

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT DOCK FENDERS FOR YOUR BOAT DOCK

Several factors will influence your choice of dock fenders and dock bumpers. The size of your boat, typical marina conditions, and the dock configuration are all crucial elements to consider. Evaluate the following qualities of dock fenders and bumpers to ensure a perfect fit and optimal protection for your vessel.

QUALITY

Cheap dock fenders may have attractive upfront prices, butĀ theyā€™llĀ need toĀ be replacedĀ more often than higher-quality ones. They may also not offer the same level of protection, meaning scratches ā€” or worse ā€” in your hull. As a result, they often end up costing more than high-quality products like FEND-ALLĀ® fenders.

PROFILES

The profile of a dock fender determines what size vessel it will protect and what location it is best suited for. Our FEND-ALLĀ® fenders and bumpers are available in several profiles, each one designed for a specific application:

  • The FA50 offers a slim profile with excellent protection for smaller vessels.
  • The FA201 is designed to provide additional protection for larger vessels.
  • The FA250 is a more robust profile designed to handle boats between 25 and 50 feet.

The FA300 corner fenders can handle a wide range of boat sizes.

The FA400 is designed to provide superior protection in narrow spaces.

INSTALLATION LOCATION

You want to ensure that you place dock fenders in locations with a high probability of deck-to-boat contact. For example, pilings in high-traffic areas and slip edges that are vulnerable to impacts from boats are likely to be your primary focus for dock fender placement.Ā 

Once you determine installation locations, you'll want to choose fender shapes best suited to them. Our dock fenders are available in a variety of shapes to allow for easy installation and superior protection:

  • 90-degree edge protection
  • Curved pile mount
  • Flat and P-style edge mount

We also offerĀ fender braces and plastic lumber to ensure dock bumpers installation in all desired locations.Ā 

MATERIALS

Various materials are used to make dock fenders and boat bumpers. Each one has advantages and disadvantages. For example, foam and rubber dock fenders are convenient and lightweight but are also easily damaged and deteriorate quickly.

All FEND-ALLĀ® dock fenders are made with 100% certified prime virgin UV-stabilized flexible PVC. This provides superior protection while resisting the effects of common marine hazards, such as gasoline, oil, and salt. It also has an expected service life of 10 years, so you won't have to worry about replacing your fenders for a while.

RELIABLE PROTECTION WITH FEND-ALLĀ® DOCK FENDERS

The FEND-ALLĀ® line offers the ultimate in customizable protection. Dock fenders and dock bumpers are available in six different profiles, several attachment designs, and varying sizes that can be cut to length. Each is also available in black and white to complement your marina design.

SUPERIOR CRAFTSMANSHIP

Our FEND-ALLĀ® dock fenders are made with premium, high quality materials designed to last in a harsh environment. Each is backed by a three-year warranty and an anticipated 10-year life span with proper care. They feature:

  • A continuously supported, double-walled design for superior shock absorption
  • Patented web design for ultimate protection and durability
  • Resistance to marring, gasoline, oil, salt, and marine boring organisms

EASY INSTALLATION

FEND-ALLĀ® dock fenders offer a simple installation process that can often be completed by one person using the following steps:

Measure the following locations:

  1. The installation area
  2. The distance between the dock and the water (you do not want the bumper continuously submerged)
  3. For post dock bumpers, the length and width of the post to ensure a proper fit

Then:

  1. Cut the dock bumpers to the correct size if needed
  2. Position the bumpers in their desired location and mark attachment locations
  3. Predrill holes in the fenders and dock material
  4. Use stainless steel lags to attach the dock fenders
Mounted FendAll Dock Fender for Boat Protection

SIGNS YOU NEED A NEW DOCK FENDER

High-quality dock fenders and dock bumpers are designed to last for years without problems. However, they do not last indefinitely. You will need to replace even the best bumpers eventually. When you start to notice the following signs, it's time to invest in new fenders:

  • Wear to existing fenders or dock materials
  • Rust at attachments
  • Cracks in bumper materials or attachment points
  • Rotten wood in supports, braces, or adjacent dock material
  • Dock or boat damage from repeated contact
  • Highly compressed fender material that does not offer adequate shock absorption
  • Discoloration from environmental damage or material degradation

FAQs

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DOCK FENDERS AND DOCK BUMPERS?

The terms 'fenders' and 'bumpers' are often used interchangeably. However, some people use 'fenders' specifically for protection attached to boats and 'bumpers' for protection attached to docks.

HOW DO I CHOOSE THE RIGHT DOCK FENDER FOR MY MARINA?

Choosing the right dock fender or dock bumper depends on factors like the size of your boat, typical water conditions, and the layout of your dock. Contact us for expert guidance in selecting the best option.

HOW FAR APART SHOULD DOCK FENDERS BE?

The distance between dock fenders typically ranges from 4 to 6 feet apart. This spacing ensures adequate protection for your boat while allowing for flexibility based on your specific docking conditions and boat size. Adjust the spacing as needed for optimal coverage. Contact an expert at Haven Dock & Marine for more information.

HOW MANY DOCK FENDERS ARE NEEDED?

Plan for at least one fender per 10 feet of dock waterline, with a minimum of three fenders installed.

SHOULD DOCK FENDERS BE INSTALLED VERTICALLY OR HORIZONTALLY?

Vertical dock fenders or dock bumpers are ideal for reducing impact when docking alongside another boat, seawall, or flat dock surface. Horizontal fenders and bumpers, on the other hand, work best when navigating around posts or pilings, providing targeted protection in these areas.

NEWS & UPDATES

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