Inflatable Fender Maintenance Guide! Learn how to look after your Boat Fenders

The safe2dock fenders feeling when coming into the marina!

Inflatable Boat and Dock Fender Maintenance Guide! Learn how to look after your Fenders

When to check.

Inflatable Fender Maintenance Guide! Learn how to look after your Boat Fenders!

Here is a quick and easy guide to taking care of your inflatable boat and dock fenders!

• After Every Trip:

  • Rinse your inflatable fenders with fresh water while cleaning your boat.

• Every 2 - 6 Months:

  • Test the pressure of the fender, top up with air till they are firm. Safe2dock dockside fenders which are (attached to the dockside permanently) are designed to sit clear of the water. If under inflated they tend to sit in the water which is not ideal as they attract marine growth like mussels and oysters.

  • PVC protection products can be used on fenders for example 303 Aerospace Protectant which has SPF 40 protection from UV rays.

    
    

How to Clean Inflatable boat and dock fenders

Quick fender cleaning

1. When cleaning your boat after use, spray fresh water over your inflatable fenders to remove any salt or debris.

2. Use soapy water and a soft brush to remove any salt deposits around stainless fittings etc

3. Avoid harsh cleaners or chemicals as they can damage the fabric over time.

4. Let your boat fenders dry completely if removing them for storage.

Deep cleaning fenders

1. Mix warm water with a little boat soap for a deep clean.

2. Got tough stains on your boat fenders?

   Mix equal parts warm water and white vinegar as a natural boat fender stain remover.

3. Scrub gently with a soft brush to clean.

4. Rinse well and let them dry fully.

Cleaning fender valves

1. Take off the valve caps and look for salt buildup in the valves.

2. Wash the pressure relief valve with water if required.

3. Dry completely before putting the caps back on.

4. Test the valve by expelling a little air from the fender (disengage by pressing the spring inside the valve). Turn to the left.

   

   Responsible Captain washing his boats sails after a nice day on the water

Inspecting Your Inflatable Fenders

Look at your dock fenders closely

1. Inspect your inflatable boat fenders for:

   • Cuts, rips, chafes.

   • Scrapes or worn out areas.

   • Faded color (a sign of UV damage to boat fenders).

   • Algae growth, mussel or oyster growth on the bottom:

     Safe2dock dockside fenders (attached to the dockside permanently) are designed to sit clear of the water. If under inflated they tend to sit in the water which is not idea.

2. Pull on attachment points and D-rings to ensure they’re secure. Ensure shackles are tight.

Test dock fender air pressure

1. Inflate your boat fender till they are firm.

   The pressure relief valve (if fitted) will automatically expel air if overinflated 2.5psi. (17kpa).

2. Leave for a day in a steady temperature spot.

3. See if it’s lost air which is a sign of a leak.

4. If fenders are losing air, spray some soapy water all over the joins and around the inflation and pressure relief valve (if fitted) and look for air bubbles!

5. Remember inflatable fenders soften at night when the air temperature cools.

Check fender valves

1. Test inflation valves to ensure proper boat fender valve function by pressing the centre spring.

2. Make sure caps seal tight.

3. Listen for air escaping around the valve area.

4. Confirm the pressure relief valve is functioning properly by inflating until air is released.

Storing inflatable Fenders Correctly

Short term fender storage (onboard)

1. Store boat fenders in racks or storage within your boat.

2. Keep away from sharp objects & harsh chemicals.

3. Use fender covers to help protect from UV rays.

Long term boat fender storage (offsite)

1. Clean and dry your inflatable fenders fully before storing.

2. Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.

3. Keep them away from sharp objects, extreme heat, or chemicals.

4. Use a breathable bag to stop mold & mildew.

   Ensure they are completely dry.

5. Press the valves internal spring and rotate enabling all air to escape. (left to open).

Protecting Boat Fenders from the Sun

1. Spray on a PVC protection products can be used on fenders for example 303 Aerospace Protectant which has SPF 40 protection from UV rays.

2. Use fender covers if they’re out in the sun a lot or exposed to harsh UV Radiation.

   
   

How to inflate boat fenders

1. Pump your inflatable boat fenders to the manufacturers recommended pressure—ideally (0.5-0.25) bar or 2-2.5 psi.

2. Use a pressure gauge for accurate boat fender inflation. Electric pumps generally have this feature built in as standard.

3. If inflating safe2dock dockside fenders which are a permanent fixture, inflate till air is automatically discharged by the pressure relief valve.

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Fixing Inflatable Boat and dock Fenders

Repairing small boat fender holes or tears

1. Find the leak by inflating fender and spraying with soapy water.

2. Look for air bubbles to discover the puncture location.

3. Clean and dry the puncture location well ready for repair.

4. Deflate and lay flat.

5. Use a vinyl repair kit made for inflatable fenders.

6. Follow the kit’s instructions to install the patch.

7. Let it set and fully dry (usually a day) before inflating again.

Handling big boat fender damage

1. Decide if a professional repair makes better sense for your inflatable fender.

2. Think about replacing it if the fender’s old and worn out.

Troubleshooting Boat and Dock Fender Problems

Fixing slow leaks in boat fenders

1. Do a soapy water bubble test to locate the leak.

2. Check valves, then around the valve area.

3. Look for tiny holes along seams or worn spots.

4. Fix based on size and where the leak is location.

Solving boat fender valve issues

1. Clean the valve with a little fresh water.

2. Check the valves status:

   To engage simply press and rotate to the right (closed).

   To disengage simply press and rotate to left (open).

3. Purchase replacement valve kit and fit if it keeps loosing air.

Dealing with Boat Fender Wear

1. Diagnose the main causes for concern. sun damage, chemicals, or rough use?

2. Step up maintenance & care program as described above for your inflatable fenders.

3. Weigh repair costs vs. purchasing new fenders.

When to Replace Your Inflatable Boat and Dock Fenders

Think about replacing your boat fenders if:

1. You’ve patched them on several occasions.

2. The material’s brittle or faded from UV damage.

3. They won’t hold air.

4. If repairing them costs roughly half the cost of a new fender.

With these boat fender maintenance tips, you’ll keep your inflatable fenders working great for years to come, protecting your boat and peace of mind! 

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