Manila Rope On Boat Dock: A Step-By-Step Guide

Manila rope is a popular choice for boat docks, but it's important to consider the specific use case and requirements before installation. The rope is made from natural hemp fibre, which is strong and durable, but it can be prone to rotting and mildew without proper treatment. Some treatments include anti-freeze solutions, wood preservatives, and oil-based deck sealers. When installing manila rope, it's important to consider the diameter of the rope in relation to the space it will be inserted through, as well as the potential for splinters when handling.

Choosing the right rope

Material

Nylon is the most popular choice for boat dock ropes due to its strength, UV resistance, and stretchiness. This flexibility is crucial for absorbing shocks and accommodating boat movement caused by waves or wind. However, nylon tends to shrink and lose some strength when wet. Polyester is another option, offering superior resistance to UV rays and abrasion but less elasticity than nylon. Alternatively, polypropylene ropes are lightweight and float on water, making them suitable for temporary docking or throw lines.

Construction

There are three main types of rope construction: three-strand, double braid, and Mega Braid. Three-strand ropes are the most traditional and affordable option, known for their durability and stretch. They are easy to splice but can stiffen over time, making them challenging to use with cleats. Double-braided ropes are stronger, more flexible, and available in various colours, although they are slightly more expensive. Mega Braid ropes are typically chosen for larger boats as they offer exceptional strength and durability while remaining relatively easy to handle.

Diameter and Length

The diameter of the rope should be selected based on your boat's size. As a general rule, 3/8" diameter ropes are suitable for boats up to 25 feet, 1/2" for boats up to 35 feet, 5/8" for boats up to 45 feet, and 3/4" for larger boats. Yachts may require even thicker ropes. In terms of length, transient dock lines should be about 2/3 the length of your boat, while spring lines should match the boat's length.

Working Load Limit

Consider the breaking load or tensile strength of the rope, which is the maximum force it can withstand before breaking. Choose a rope with a breaking load well above the expected forces to ensure safety. Nylon ropes are often preferred for their high breaking load and shock absorption capabilities.

Weather and Water Conditions

The local weather and water environment should also influence your choice of rope. If you're docking in a sunny, tropical climate, opt for UV-resistant lines to prevent sun damage. In areas with salty water, choose ropes resistant to saltwater corrosion.

When selecting a rope for your boat dock, always prioritise high-quality, durable options that can withstand the specific conditions you anticipate encountering. Regular maintenance and inspection of your ropes are also crucial to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Installation techniques

Manila rope is a versatile material that can be used for a variety of projects, including boat docks. When installing manila rope on a boat dock, there are several techniques to consider:

• Drilling: If you are using the manila rope as a handrail or guardrail, you will need to drill holes in the dock posts to thread the rope through. It is important to use a drill bit that is slightly larger than the diameter of the rope to ensure a proper fit. For example, if you are using a 2-inch rope, you will need to use a 2 1/8-inch drill bit.
• Cutting: When cutting manila rope, it is important to wrap the ends with tape before cutting to prevent the rope from fraying and unraveling. You can also use a sharp knife to cut and resize the rope, but be sure to wrap the rope with tape before cutting to avoid loosening and unraveling.
• Knotting: Manila rope is easy to knot, making it ideal for creating loops or splicing for various projects. When knotting manila rope, consider using a simple knot such as an overhand knot or a figure-eight knot to secure the rope in place.
• Soaking: To increase the lifespan of the manila rope and prevent mildew, you can soak the rope in a preservative solution before installation. One option is to use a 50% antifreeze solution, as ethylene glycol can help kill microorganisms that cause rot. Alternatively, you can use a wood preservative or a product like Flood CWF-UV to treat the rope and protect it from the elements.
• Sealing: In addition to soaking, you can also seal the manila rope with a linseed oil-based deck sealer before installation. This will help to further protect the rope from the elements and prolong its lifespan.
• Storage: When not in use, manila rope should be stored in a dry and ventilated environment to prevent moisture buildup and mildew growth.

Removing smells from rope

To remove smells from manila rope, there are several methods you can try. Some suggest simply putting the rope in a ventilated place for a couple of days to allow it to air out. If the rope has a chemical or oil smell, it may be worth trying to air it outdoors or putting it in the oven at a low temperature for an hour or two.

If the rope has a barnyard smell, one method to try is to bake it in the oven at 140°C for an hour. This method may need to be repeated, but it should leave the rope smelling like apple crumble.

If the rope is still giving off an unpleasant odour, you could try washing it with a solution of white vinegar and water. Alternatively, you could try rubbing it with baking soda or soaking it in a baking soda solution.

Rope preservation methods

Manila rope is a popular choice for boat docks due to its strength, resistance to temperature, weather, and abrasion, and its pleasant, natural appearance. However, as a natural fiber, it is susceptible to environmental factors and requires proper care and attention to maximize its lifespan. Here are some detailed instructions on how to preserve your manila rope:

Keep it Dry

Manila rope is hygroscopic, meaning it can easily absorb water and moisture. This property makes the rope vulnerable to shrinkage and water damage. To prevent this, try to keep the rope dry at all times. For indoor applications, this is relatively easy, but for outdoor use, you may need to place the rope under a shelter or store it away when not in use. If you cannot store the rope, account for shrinkage by adding 10-15% to your required length.

Clean Regularly

To maintain the rope's natural appearance, it is important to clean it regularly. Vacuuming is a quick way to remove surface dust. For deeper cleaning, use mild soap and cold water to wash the rope by hand, then rinse and leave to dry naturally, avoiding direct sunlight. Do not use a washing machine, tumble dryer, or strong cleaning chemicals like bleach, as these can damage the rope's structure and color.

Store Correctly

When storing manila rope for extended periods, avoid creating folds, as these will be retained by the natural fibers and make the rope harder to work with over time. Instead, create a loose coil and store it inside a rope bag or hang it over a large wall post. Keep the rope in a dark, cool, dry place with a humidity level below 65%.

Prevent Rot and Mildew

Manila rope has a certain lifespan and is prone to rot and mildew over time. To lengthen its life, you can treat it with a wood preservative or a product like Flood CWF-UV, which is known to remove mildew. You can also try soaking the rope in a 50% antifreeze solution to kill microorganisms, although this may not be a long-lasting solution as antifreeze is water-soluble.

Pros and cons of manila rope

Manila rope is a natural fibre rope that has been in use for centuries, thanks to its durability, flexibility, strength and resistance to water damage. It is made from the leaves of the abacá plant, which is native to the Philippines and is particularly strong and tough.

Pros of Manila Rope:

• Manila rope is strong, tough and long-lasting.
• It is flexible and does not sacrifice this for strength.
• It is resistant to saltwater damage, making it ideal for use in marine applications and intense saltwater exposure, such as rigging and fishing nets.
• It is environmentally friendly as it is made from a plant that can be farmed.
• It is perfect for use in outdoor children's play equipment, such as swings and rope ladders, as it withstands the elements well.
• It is a popular choice for exercise routines, such as weights-based or cardio-based exercises, as it works difficult muscle groups and builds endurance.
• It is also useful for barrier ropes, delineating off-limits areas or restricting access without compromising on looks and adaptability.
• Manila rope is visually appealing.
• It is snap-resistant.
• It is low-cost.

Cons of Manila Rope:

• Manila rope is not UV or water-resistant and may harden or rot over long periods.
• It tends to shrink when wet, which may be a disadvantage in some situations.
• Knots tied in wet Manila rope will be harder to undo.
• It can give splinters to hands while handling.
• It has a turpentine smell that may make it unsuitable for indoor use.
• It is not suitable for use with pets.
• The rope diameter is larger than stated when not under load.
• Manila rope is susceptible to liquid absorption.
• It may not be suitable for long-term outdoor use as it has a tendency to rot.
• It is not immune to damage.

Frequently asked questions