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Dock Bumpers – Protection for your Dock and Boat
by
Linda LangstonJust for a moment, think about how careful you are when you’re docking and undocking your boat. If you’re docking or undocking at your own dock, of course you’re being very careful not to damage your own boat or your own dock. Otherwise, if you’re not maneuvering at your dock you’re being very cautious not to damage your boat, right? We all take pride in our own property for a number of reasons. As careful as you are, how many times have you bumped or rubbed your own dock pilings? No matter how careful you are there are several uncontrollable factors, such as the wind, rain and the tide, that make a difference in how your boat moves and responds.While our primary reason for applying dock protection is to protect our own property, we must think about damage that could occur as other boaters come and go from your dock. You have more experience coming and going in your own environment and you know how the outdoor elements will affect it. Others may not have that experience or knowledge.Dock bumpers can provide protection against those bumps and dings that are nearly unavoidable when the water gets rough, and can save you those potential costly repair expenses.Dock bumpers are lightweight, flexible, and can be placed on multiple parts of the dock. The most useful are those that get attached right to a dock’s edges and run parallel to the side of a boat when it is docked, but you might also choose to install corner bumpers and post bumpers that fix to posts and roof columns for increased safety. As an added bonus, installation is easy and they tend to be resistant to fungi, so once they are attached you won’t have to spend much time worrying about them. What to consider when buying dock bumpers:One thing that you should consider if you are installing dock bumpers yourself is the material you will use. Not using galvanized steel bolts and brackets will cause the materials to break in the wind and waves, resulting in damage to your dock. It pays in the long run to spend the extra costs in the beginning rather than replacing it later.You’ll also want to be sure you by durable, sturdy protective bumpers. Your dock protectors will be long lasting if you ensure the product is reliable to start with. Installing durable protective dock bumpers is the best way to avoid damage and those high repair costs.Dock bumpers also come in various colors. You’ll want to compare products and choose a product that will not only be sturdy and hold up in the outdoor elements, but one that also enhances your dock appearance and your recreational or outdoor area.Dock Bumper Installation Steps:1. Take measurements of the dock. Measure the dock with the measuring tape to determine the overall length of the dock. Use these measurements when purchasing your dock bumper. 2. Determine the height. Position the boat alongside the dock and measure the height of where the dock bumper should be placed. Place the bumper at the right height to ensure the boat does not simply slide under the bumper when docking.3. Install mounting bracket and hardware using the measurements determined in step two and according to the instructions. Use the cordless drill and the level to mount the bumper mounting bracket.4. Install the bumper. Slide the bumper onto the mounting bracket and ensure that the bumper is secure.Tips: Use silicone or another sealer to seal all the screw holes since the bumper is mounted in a wet environment.
Linda Langston is a native of Florida and has been an avid boater all of her life. Her love of the water led her to be a waterfront home owner where she and her husband enjoy their waterways regularly. BestDockAccessories was created as a result of the love and knowledge she and her husband have for boating. At BestDockAccessories you can find all of your boat outfitting needs and will find a very friendly and warm experience. Visit www.bestdockaccessories often for the most up to date product listing.
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