Boat Bumpers - Cheap Easy DIY Project

[LaqueRatt]

When got my little boat I wanted some bumpers, but the ones I saw for sale on line seemed bulky and expensive. Kept trying to think of something that would work that I already had. Then I saw a stack of leftover rubber pavers that I had no use for. They are made out of recycled tires and are sort of soft, but very tough. They are 16"x16". If you cut them at 4" one paver makes four bumpers. Cut them with a hand saw, drill a hole in them with a spade pit. Tie a piece of rope to them and you're done. Figured somebody else might like to try this. I don't know much about boats, but thought this was one way maybe I can give back a little for all the help you guys have given me. Many thanks.

 

[JimS123]

Back in the day, "fenders" were constructed from woven layers of cotton "rope". Today the rubber made ones are really cheap. Want to make them even better? Cover them with a terrycloth fender cover.

Let us know how yours work out after a year of being tied to a dock. I would imagine that the paver would completely wear the paint off a painted tinny.

 

[LaqueRatt]

You could well be right. They might not hold up year around on a dock. Or maybe they would, since they're made out of tires. I just toss them over the side when I tie off. They have the consistency of carpet padding, maybe a little firmer. Pavers feel real nice to walk on. Not sure if they'd wear off paint or not, but so far no damage.