Protect Your Boat: Install Bumpers For Stress-Free Docking

Boat bumpers, also known as fenders, are an essential accessory for any boat owner. They act as a cushion between your boat and a dock, jetty, or another boat, protecting your vessel from scrapes, scratches, and other damage. This guide will teach you how to put bumpers on your boat while docking, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a beginner boater, equipping yourself with the right knowledge and materials will give you the confidence to dock your boat safely and efficiently.

Choosing the right size fender/bumper for your boat

Choosing the right size fender for your boat is crucial to ensure effective protection during docking. Here are some key considerations for selecting the appropriate fender size:

Boat Size:

The size of your boat is a critical factor in choosing the right fender. The general rule of thumb is that smaller boats require less length and diameter in a fender. However, it's important to ensure that the fender is not too small, as it may not provide adequate protection and could even get smashed if attached to a larger boat. For small motorboats, foam dock siding or corner bumpers might be sufficient, while larger vessels may require heavy-duty options like PVC dock siding or piling bumper protection.

Boat Weight:

Consider the weight of your boat, as heavier boats will require larger, more robust fenders. It's important to use common sense when selecting a fender and choose a size that can withstand the weight of your vessel.

Mooring Conditions:

The mooring conditions you typically encounter will also influence your fender selection. If you frequently dock in calm waters, you may not need as much protection as boats exposed to harsh conditions like tidal surges or strong winds. Boats in unprotected areas or locations with challenging conditions will require more robust and larger fenders.

Fender Diameter:

When it comes to cylindrical fenders, a good guideline is to select a fender with a diameter that equals approximately 1 inch for every 4 to 5 feet of your boat's length. For spherical fenders, aim for a diameter of 2 inches for every 4 to 5 feet of boat length. These guidelines can help ensure your fender provides sufficient protection while docked.

Placement and Number:

In addition to size, consider the placement and number of fenders. As a rule of thumb, use one fender per 10 feet of waterline, with a minimum of three fenders for a 20-foot boat. Ensure you have at least one fender placed at the maximum beam, with others distributed fore and aft. When rafting, it's advisable to have more fenders, with three at the maximum beam and two round fenders set fore and aft.

By considering these factors and guidelines, you can choose the right size fenders to protect your boat during docking and prevent damage to its hull, paint, varnish, and gunwales.

Determining proper placement and height

To determine the proper placement and height of boat bumpers, you need to consider the following:

Firstly, identify the widest part of your boat's hull, as this will be the area that touches the dock first. Place your bumpers along this section, spacing them equally. However, there are exceptions to this rule. For instance, if you dock with only your bow next to a jetty, you will need more bumpers at the front of your boat. Similarly, if you are backing into a slip, you will need a fender at the back of your boat to avoid hitting the transom on the dock.

Secondly, consider the height at which you hang your bumpers. This will depend on the type of dock you are working with. For fixed docks, the height of the bumpers will need to be adjusted according to the tide to ensure they are not too high or too low. Floating docks, on the other hand, should have bumpers tied just above the waterline.

Thirdly, consider the size of your boat and the potential impact it could have on the dock. Smaller boats, such as motorboats, may only require foam dock siding or corner bumpers, while larger vessels may need heavier-duty materials such as PVC dock siding or piling bumper protection.

Lastly, don't forget to protect the corners and pilings of your dock. For corners, you can use corner bumpers or mountable dock wheels, while traditional dock bumpers can be mounted vertically to pilings.

Using the right number of fenders/bumpers

The number of fenders/bumpers you need depends on the size of your boat and how you plan to use them. The general rule of thumb is that you need at least one fender for every 5 feet of your boat's length. So, for a 20-foot-long boat, four fenders per side should be sufficient. If you have a small boat, two fenders should be enough – place one near the bow and one near the stern. For larger boats over 40 feet in length, you may need more than eight fenders per side, as you have a larger area to cover.

It's always better to have more fenders than you need rather than fewer. If you're unsure, hang them wherever you think the boat might come into contact with the dock. You may also want an extra fender that isn't tied on but can be placed wherever it's needed at the last minute.

When placing your fenders, remember that the widest part of the hull will most likely touch the dock first, so make sure to cover this area. If you're docking with only your bow next to the jetty, place most of your fenders there. If you're backing into a slip, you may need a fender to avoid hitting the transom on the dock.

The height at which you hang your fenders is also important. It depends on the type of dock or piling you're working with. With floating docks, it's best to tie your fenders just above the waterline. For fixed docks, consider the tide, as you don't want your fenders to be too high or too low.

For most boats, two to four fenders per side should be adequate, but don't forget to consider the unique requirements of your boat and docking situation.

Attaching fenders/bumpers to your boat

Attaching fenders or bumpers to your boat is a crucial step in ensuring the safety of your vessel, especially when docking. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you through the process:

Choosing the Right Fenders:

First, select the appropriate fender type and size for your boat. Fenders are typically air-filled vinyl cushions, but other materials like foam, rubber, or plastic are also used. Consider the size and type of your boat when making your selection. As a general rule, smaller boats require less length and diameter in a fender, but ensure it's not too small, or it may get smashed. Consult size charts or labels on fenders to guide your choice.

Determining Placement and Height:

Place the fenders along the widest part of the hull, as this will likely be the first point of contact when docking. If you only dock your boat's bow, focus your fender placement there. Consider the height at which you hang the fenders, adjusting based on the dock or piling type and tidal conditions. For floating docks, tying fenders just above the waterline is a good practice.

Number of Fenders:

The number of fenders needed depends on your boat's length and intended usage. As a rule of thumb, plan for two to four fenders per side for most boats. Consider having an extra "roving fender" that can be managed by a crew member and placed wherever needed at the last minute.

Tying the Fenders:

Tying fenders involve two steps: attaching a rope to the fender (fender line) and then tying the fender line to your boat. A strong knot like the bowline is recommended for attaching the fender line to the fender, as it creates a loop and can be easily untied if needed. For tying the fender line to your boat, consider using a cleat hitch, especially if you need to tie it to a cleat on your boat or on the dock.

Storing Fenders:

When not in use, fenders should be stored securely. Larger boats often have dedicated fender lockers, while smaller boats may use fender baskets. Ensure the fenders are out of the way, protected, and won't cause any issues during bad weather.

Dock Bumpers:

In addition to boat fenders, consider installing dock bumpers, especially if you have a permanent docking location. These are shock-absorbing devices attached to your dock that protect your boat from damage when docking or during inclement weather. They are available in various materials like rubber, foam, vinyl, or PVC, each with its pros and cons.

By following these steps and choosing the right fenders and bumpers, you can ensure the protection of your boat and dock, giving you confidence during the docking process.

When to replace fenders/bumpers

Fenders and bumpers are essential for protecting your boat and dock from damage. But how do you know when to replace them?

Well, it depends on the material. Quality PVC bumpers can last up to a decade, but materials like rubber and foam may only last a few years. If you notice any significant dents or cracks on your bumpers, it's time to replace them. To get the most out of your investment, look for brands that offer warranties.

For example, Fend-All boat bumpers are made from marine-grade PVC, have a 10+ year life expectancy, and are backed by a 3-year warranty. So, if you're looking for a long-lasting option, that might be a good choice.

In general, it's better to play it safe and replace your bumpers if you notice any signs of wear and tear. This will help ensure that your boat and dock are always protected.

Additionally, it's worth mentioning that proper placement, size, and the number of fenders are crucial for effective protection. Fenders should be placed along the widest part of the hull, and you should have at least two to four fenders per side, depending on the length of your boat.

Frequently asked questions