A worn or damaged fender strip can reduce the protection and finish of a boat. Especially when the original profile is no longer available, finding a suitable replacement can be difficult. DG Rubber Profiles helps replace existing rubber fender strips and can also redevelop older or unusual profiles.
An existing piece of profile, technical drawing or clear photo with dimensions is often enough for an initial assessment. We then check whether one of our existing moulds matches or whether a new custom profile is needed.
Sample, drawing or photo
Often enough for an initial assessment.
Large stock of moulds
We first look for an existing, suitable cross-section.
Sample in advance
For custom work, a sample for approval first.
When does a fender strip need replacing?
In use, a rubber fender strip faces sunlight, moisture, dirt, friction and contact with jetties or quays. Over time the profile can wear, deform, discolour or suffer local damage.
Replacement is especially relevant when cracks appear, parts come loose, the profile loses its shape or the fixing is no longer reliable. A new fender strip may also be needed when renovating or refitting a boat.
If only an outer wear part is damaged, with a two-piece fender strip it is sometimes possible to replace just that part.
Removing the old fender strip
Remove the old profile carefully so that the hull or edge is not damaged further. Preferably keep a piece of the profile: it provides the most information for finding or reproducing a replacement.
Then check the underlying construction for damage, adhesive residue and irregularities, and note how the old profile was fixed. This information helps determine which replacement and fitting method are suitable.
Reproducing an old fender strip
Not every old rubber profile is still available as standard. That does not automatically mean the same shape can no longer be produced.
A sample of the existing profile provides the most information. The cross-section can be measured and compared with the available moulds. If a suitable shape already exists, we can quickly see which version is possible.
If no existing mould matches, a new profile can be developed from the old sample or a technical drawing. This makes it possible to produce a suitable replacement even for older boats and specific constructions.
A custom rubber fender strip as a replacement
A replacement profile does not always have to be identical to the original. Sometimes an existing shape is a good technical match or easier to fit. How the new fender strip is fixed is explained on the page fitting a rubber fender strip on a boat.
The assessment looks at the available space, profile height, width, wall thickness, hardness and fixing. The hull shape and the load when mooring also play a part.
We first look for a suitable existing mould. If custom work is needed, a new mould is developed from a drawing or sample.
Material and hardness of the replacement
An old profile is not always made of the same material as a new version. For many impact protection profiles, DG Rubber Profiles uses TPE, a flexible, wear-resistant material for prolonged outdoor use.
So when replacing a strip we look not only at the dimensions of the old profile, but also at the desired hardness and colour of the new one.
From old profile to new product
- Submit. The process starts with a sample, drawing or photo with dimensions.
- Mould check. We then check whether an existing mould is available.
- Development and sample. If a new mould is needed, the desired cross-section is worked out technically. For custom work, a sample can be produced for approval before series production starts.
- Production. Production takes place in Biddinghuizen, keeping development, production and coordination within one organisation as far as possible.
Replacing fender strips on different boats
Rubber fender strips for boats are used on tenders, motorboats, yachts and workboats. The right replacement depends on the construction and use.
On a tender or yacht, the fender strip is often a visible part of the design, so colour and fit play an important role. On workboats, the emphasis is more often on wear resistance, protection and easy replacement.
Why have a replacement made by DG Rubber Profiles?
DG Rubber Profiles has specialised in rubber profiles since 2014, combining custom work with in-house production in the Netherlands. A large stock of existing moulds lets us look for a suitable cross-section first.
If the profile is not among them, a new mould can be developed from a drawing or old sample. For custom work, a sample can be made before series production starts.
We respond to enquiries within 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions about replacing a fender strip
Can an old rubber fender strip be reproduced?
Yes. An existing piece of profile or a technical drawing provides the best basis. The profile is compared with existing moulds and can be redeveloped if necessary.
Is an original profile needed to make a replacement?
An original sample provides the most information, but clear photos and dimensions can also be enough for an initial assessment.
Does a replacement fender strip have to have exactly the same profile?
Not always. Sometimes an existing profile shape is a good technical match. The choice depends on the dimensions, fixing, available space and load.
Can just part of a fender strip be replaced?
With a two-piece fender strip, the outer wear part can be replaced separately if the base profile is still in good condition. That is also how DG Rubber Profiles’ current two-piece system is built.
Have an existing fender strip assessed
Want to replace a worn fender strip or have an old profile remade? Send a photo, technical drawing, dimensions or a piece of the existing profile. DG Rubber Profiles will check whether an existing mould is suitable or custom work is needed.
