Protect Your Boat: Install A Creel Guard Like A Pro

Keel guards are an effective way to protect your boat from damage. The bottom of the hull is susceptible to scratches and dings from concrete boat ramps, rocky shorelines, and sandy beaches. Keel guards are easy to install and can even enhance your boat's performance. They are designed to be abrasion-resistant and safeguard your boat from abrasions, scratches, and scars. The installation process involves preparing the surface by removing any dirt, wax, or release agents, followed by cleaning the area with alcohol, acetone, or similar agents. After this, a keel primer is applied, and the keel guard is centred and pressed onto the hull, creating a permanent bond.

Measure the guard rails

Measuring guard rails for your sailing yacht is a straightforward task. The first step is to wind PVC tape tightly against the rigging screw on the stud. You can then loosen the rigging screw, and the tape will mark its position. If your screw house is open, you can simply measure the distance between the two studs in the rigging screw with a caliper.

When measuring, it is important to consider the type of guard rail you will be using. The two most common options are a rigging screw or an eye with a lash for tensioning the guard rail. Both of these options can be delivered with or without a PVC coating. Another option is a custom Dyneema Guard Rail, which is a lightweight rope solution that can replace a stainless steel guard rail.

When measuring, it is also important to consider the safety regulations for guard rails. For a yacht up to 12 metres in length, use wires of at least 4mm diameter in 316-grade stainless steel, 1x19 construction, and a maximum stanchion spacing of 2.2 metres. The industry-standard stanchion height for boats up to 15 metres in length is 610mm, but some serious cruisers have stanchions of 800 to 900mm.

Additionally, guard wires should not be PVC-coated, as this can hide deterioration. The wires should be visible and need end fittings and tensioning methods that are at least as strong as the breaking load of the wire. Adjustment arrangements can include simple lashings, turnbuckles, or integrated adjustable forks. It is also important to regularly check and replace lashings, as UV degradation weakens them over time.

Check the condition of the guard rails

Guard rails are essential for safety on a boat, so it's important to ensure they are in good condition and well-maintained. Here are some detailed steps to check the condition of your boat's guard rails:

First, it is important to understand the standard specifications for guard rails. For a yacht up to 12m LOA, use wires of at least 4mm diameter in 316-grade stainless steel, 1x19 construction, and a maximum stanchion spacing of 2.2m. The industry-standard stanchion height for boats up to 15m LOA is 610mm, but some serious cruisers have stanchions of 800 to 900mm.

Next, inspect the guardwires. They should not be PVC-coated, as this can hide any damage or wear. Check for any signs of damage, such as fraying or corrosion. Ensure that the wires are tight enough so they do not sag between stanchions but are not too tight, which can cause wear spots as they pass through the stanchions. Also, check the end fittings and tensioning methods; they should be at least as strong as the breaking load of the wire. Adjustment arrangements can include simple lashings, turnbuckles, or integrated adjustable forks.

Regularly inspect and maintain lashing, as UV degradation weakens them over time. Check turnbuckles and other adjusters for any signs of damage or wear. Terminals should be secured fore and aft with clevis pins and split pins. To prevent them from catching on sheets and sails, fully open and cover them with tape or a bead of silicone sealant.

Finally, check the stanchions to ensure they are securely fastened to the deck. If they are bent or damaged, they should be repaired or replaced.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your boat's guard rails are in good condition and provide adequate safety for your vessel.

Safety-check the guard rails

Guard rails, also known as guard wires or lifelines, are an essential safety feature on boats and yachts, preventing crew members from falling overboard. Here are some detailed instructions on how to safety-check your guard rails:

Overall Assessment

Begin by assessing the current state of your guard rails and their components. Check that the lifelines are set up and tensioned correctly. This includes inspecting the stanchions, their bases, all deck fixings, and the overall alignment of the fixing lugs and through holes. Ensure the stanchions are at least 610mm high and no more than 900mm, with a maximum spacing of approximately 2 metres. Usually, there should be two wires: an upper guard wire at full height (minimum 600mm) and a lower guard wire at an intermediate level.

Inspect for Damage or Deterioration

Check for any visible signs of damage or deterioration. Pay close attention to the wires, looking for corrosion, deformation, or bending that results in permanent kinks. Rust or corrosion is more likely to occur on sections of wire protruding from any PVC coating and on wires adjacent to wire terminals. Inspect the stanchions for any bends or damage, and ensure they are securely fastened to the deck. If they are bent or damaged, they should be repaired or replaced.

Check Gate Stanchions

If your boat has gate stanchions, ensure they are securely fixed into the stanchion bases. Check that the feet on the brace are firmly screwed down to the deck.

Inspect Stanchion Bases

Examine the stanchion bases for any signs of damage or weakness. Ensure they have a strong and stable fastening to the deck or toe rail.

Check Pushpit and Pulpit Rails

Inspect the welding on the attachment lugs of the pushpit and pulpit rails. Ensure the welding is intact and serviceable, and verify that the deck fixings are strong enough.

Inspect Lashings

Check the lashings to ensure they are made off satisfactorily. Look for any signs of UV deterioration or abrasion on the rope. Lashings must be replaced regularly to prevent UV degradation from weakening them over time.

Check Turnbuckles and Adjusters

Regularly check turnbuckles and other adjusters for any signs of wear or damage. Ensure that guardwires are tight enough so they do not sag between stanchions but not so tight that they cause wear spots.

Inspect Terminals and End Fittings

Check that terminals are secured fore and aft with clevis pins and split pins. These should be fully opened and then taped over or covered with a bead of silicone sealant to prevent them from catching on sheets and sails. Do not use split rings as they open too easily.

Check Wire Diameter and Construction

Verify that the guard wires are made from Marine Grade 316 stainless steel 1x19 wire, with a minimum diameter of 4mm for leisure yachts and boats up to 12 metres in length. For larger yachts over 15 metres, consider using 6mm wire.

Check Wire Tension Settings

Note any tension settings by marking them with tape or taking photos. If you need to loosen any turnbuckles, remember to return them to the noted settings before measuring.

By following these comprehensive safety checks, you can ensure that your guard rails are in good condition and ready to provide the critical safety function they are designed for.

Inspect the guard rails

Guard rails, also known as guard wires or lifelines, are an essential safety feature on boats and yachts. They should be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure they are in good condition and can serve their purpose of preventing crew members from falling overboard. Here are some detailed instructions on how to inspect the guard rails:

Begin by checking the setup and tension of the lifelines. Ensure that the lifelines are correctly tensioned to prevent sagging between stanchions, but also make sure they are not too tight, which can cause wear spots as they pass through the stanchions. The correct tension will depend on the specific boat and its usage, so it is important to refer to the manufacturer's guidelines or seek advice from experienced professionals.

Inspect the condition of the guard wires. Look for any signs of damage, corrosion, or deformation, such as permanent kinks in the wire. Pay close attention to the sections of wire protruding from any PVC coating, as well as the areas adjacent to wire terminals. These areas are more susceptible to rust and corrosion. If the guard wires are not PVC-coated, inspect the entire length of the wire for any issues.

Check the stanchions and gate stanchions for any bending or damage. Ensure that the eyes of the stanchions are not causing chafe issues and that they are securely fixed into their bases. Also, verify that the feet of the brace are firmly screwed down to the deck.

Examine the stanchion bases. Ensure they are in good condition and securely fastened to the deck or toe rail. Any signs of damage or weakness in the stanchion bases should be addressed immediately as they play a crucial role in the stability of the guard rails.

Inspect the pushpit and pulpit rails. Check the welding on the attachment lugs to ensure it is intact and serviceable. Also, verify that the deck fixings are strong enough to withstand the expected loads.

Evaluate the lashings. Lashings should be replaced regularly as UV exposure and abrasion can weaken them over time. Ensure that the lashings are made off satisfactorily and that there are enough turns to meet the required break load.

Check the tension settings. Mark the current tension settings with tape or take photos for reference. If any adjustments are made to the tension during the inspection, ensure that they are returned to the correct settings.

Finally, consider possible improvements. Look for any changes in fittings or tweaks in the setup that could enhance the overall safety and functionality of the guard rails. This may include adjusting the spacing between stanchions or adding additional support structures.

By following these detailed instructions, you can ensure that the guard rails on your boat are in proper condition and ready to provide the necessary safety measures for you and your crew.

Adjust the guard rails

Before adjusting the guard rails, it is important to understand the purpose of a creel guard and how it is installed. A creel guard, also known as a keel guard, is a protective layer added to the keel of a boat to prevent damage from concrete ramps, rocky shorelines, and sandy beaches. The installation process involves preparing the surface of the keel, cleaning it, applying a primer, and then attaching the creel guard using a strong adhesive.

Now, let's focus on the guard rails. Guard rails, also known as handrails or grab rails, are an important safety feature on a boat. They provide support and stability for passengers when walking or standing on the boat. When adjusting the guard rails, consider the following:

• Height and positioning: Ensure that the guard rails are positioned at the appropriate height and in compliance with any relevant safety regulations. The rails should be high enough to provide support but not obstruct the movement of passengers. Position the rails in areas where they will be most effective, such as near the cockpit, stairs, or areas of the boat that may be slippery or pose a falling hazard.
• Material and durability: Choose guard rails made from durable materials that can withstand the marine environment, such as stainless steel, aluminium, or coated metals that are resistant to corrosion. Ensure that the rails are securely attached to the boat using sturdy fittings and mounting hardware.
• Comfort and grip: Opt for guard rails with a comfortable grip that provides a secure hold for passengers. Look for rails with a slightly curved or ergonomic design that fits the natural grip of the hand. This is especially important if you anticipate passengers needing to hold on tightly while the boat is in motion.
• Visibility: Consider the colour and visibility of the guard rails. Opt for colours that contrast with the boat's surface to make them easily visible, especially in low-light conditions. This will help passengers locate the rails quickly and reduce the risk of accidents.
• Customisation: Depending on the design of your boat and your specific needs, you may want to consider customising the guard rails. This could include adding additional rails in certain areas, installing folding or removable rails to improve accessibility, or choosing rails with built-in lighting for improved visibility at night.
• Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain the guard rails to ensure they remain in good condition. Check for any signs of corrosion, loose fittings, or damage to the rails. Keep the rails clean and consider applying a protective coating to extend their lifespan and maintain their appearance.

Remember to refer to the specific regulations and standards applicable to your region to ensure that your guard rails comply with all safety requirements. By carefully adjusting and maintaining the guard rails, you can enhance the safety and functionality of your boat for both passengers and crew.

Frequently asked questions