Answers to Frequent Questions

Q1 - What model do I need?
A - There are four factors to be considered when determining which model you need: 1) Length of boat, 2) Hull cross section shape, 3) water activity or traffic, & 4) water level fluctuation.  

Q2 - How many units do I need?
A -  The answer to this question is determined by two factors:  1)  Boat length and  2) The number of potential contact points on your pier or dock.   For example; if you own a 20 ft. boat and your dock sections are 8 foot long- It is likely that two posts are potential contact points with your boat while tied to the dock.  Therefore a minimum of (2) Dock D'Fenders should be used.  A popular choice in the above mentioned scenario is to add a third to help position the watercraft parallel to the dock prior to coming to rest at the designated parking area.

Q3 - Can you store the unit outside?
A - Yes.  Typically fenders are stored in your boat in the winter months.  Your boat may be stored inside a storage facility or shrink wrapped and parked outdoors.  In any case, there is usually no heat.  As such, fenders are designed for this type of environment and the fender function will not be adversely affected.  The metal components are fabricated from the same marine grade aluminum used for dock cross arm mounts.  As most docks are stored outside in winter months with no adverse affects, the Dock D'fender components will also maintain function following out door storage.

Q4 - How can you reduce the distance from the boat to the dock?
A - The distance can be reduced by rotating the Dock D'Fender on the post at a 30 degree angle (positioned facing an incoming boat).  This reduces the distance from the dock to the boat edge and allows the spring compression to be utilized during docking approaches.  This reduces the necessity of re-positioning the assembly following unusually rough landings.

Q5 - Can you use the Dock D'Fender on square post, wood pilings, or docks with no post?
A - The Dock D'Fender can be attached to flat surfaces by utilizing the optional Attachment Kit.  It is very important to position the Dock D'Fender near the post or piling in a manor that assures the fender will rest safely against the surface of the post or piling if the unit should rotate about the post in cases of excessive speed landings.  

Q6 - How do you fill the fender with air?
A - The fender is inflated using any standard air pump and a conical insert such as used when inflating water floating chairs or tubes.  These can be purchased at most sporting goods or hardware stores.

Q7 - Why is using tires the wrong thing to do?
A - Tires were designed to maximize traction, thus keep you on the road.  However, do you really want the friction of a tire coming into contact with your boat or cover?  By using a fender, designed for watercraft use, you can virtually eliminate cleaning black scuff marks from your boat or replacing your cover due to black worn holes.  Additionally, eliminating standing pools of water reduces mosquito breeding areas not to mention the Dock D'Fender is much more aesthetically pleasing for your property.

Q8 - Does the Dock D'Fender guarantee no damage to my boat?
A - No.  Common sense and responsible navigating is your best guarantee for not damaging your boat.  However, utilizing the Dock D'Fender will significantly reduce the chances of damaging your boat during controlled dock landings and while your boat is tied to your dock or pier.

Q9 - Does the fender rotate?
A - The Dock D'Fender was designed to help slow you down when docking rather than rolling and continuing the momentum of the watercraft down to the next potential obstacle.   Q10 - Can the Dock D'Fender be attached to sea walls?
A - The Dock D'Fender can be attached to sea walls by utilizing the side mount attachment kit.  Please consult with your sea wall contractor for the best recommendation for securing the mount to your sea wall.