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How to Choose the Right Wilks Fendering for You

The range of Wilks fendering is extensive, but the process of selecting the right profile shouldn’t be.

If you are looking for fendering to match your existing profile then the Wilks brochure includes real size and shape drawings to physically place and identify the profile you need. Once identified simply find your profile in the Wilks shop and choose the desired size, quantity and colour. If you are still unsure, please send a detailed and clear image or a small piece of your existing fendering and we can match it for you.

If you are starting from scratch, with no idea of what type of fendering you might need, then the first thing to focus on is the boat itself. This can help to determine what size is needed, the material type and the edge required for your fendering.

  • What is your boat used for? (For example is it a working boat or a day cruiser).

For a working boat, a heavy duty D profile would be the most suitable option whereas a day cruiser would suit something along the lines of a rigid PVC/aluminium profile fitted with a PVC insert.

  • What space is available to fit the fendering?

This will determine the size of the profile needed.

  • Does it have a flat or flanged (i.e. lipped) surface to fit your fendering on?

This changes what join or flange your fendering may require. Please use the images below to try and identify the most appropriate fendering.

Wilks Innovative Fendering: How to identify different fendering.

Material Type

Since boats vary significantly, Wilks offers fendering in various materials to suit different needs. You can find details about the materials used for each profile on their shop listing.

Wondering what the difference is between rigid PVC and aluminium bodies? Essentially both products are apt for similar purposes. The primary one being to complement a boat’s clean lines whilst also retaining a PVC insert which will act as a rub rail. Both will bend to the average bow or transform easily. So, for the most part, the choice between rigid PVC and aluminium bodies is one based on personal preference.

Although, for downward curves such as where the gunwale curves into a bathing platform, rigid PVC may be more suitable. As with the application of heat whilst fitting the profile it is able to conform to the angles easier.

Be sure to make your fendering work for your boat. If you are aiming for a more modern, contemporary look then consider the range of rigid PVC bodies with pre-drilled stainless steel inserts, as an alternative to using PVC inserts.

Lengths

Our larger D profiles are generally stocked in 3m lengths. This ensures that the profiles are manageable and safer to handle when fitting although it may mean the profiles are needed to be butt joined. If you require longer lengths then please contact the Wilks sales team, who will be happy to discuss your requirements.

Requesting a Sample

To request a sample of any of our stock items you can either do so via the particular product page or contact our sales team directly by telephone: +44 (0)1621 869609 or e-mail: [email protected]. More information can be found on our Contact Us Page.