Dock cleats are made of stainless steel, bronze, or galvanized metal and come in a variety of styles, sizes, and colors. Cleats are the most common and safest way to ensure that your boat remains secure at the dock or marina. While there are many types to choose from, your particular setup may dictate one over the other. And again, you may have a preference for how the cleat is rigged on your dock.
Below are the 5 most common types of dock cleats.
1. Galvanized steel dowels:
Made from hot dip galvanized steel, these are by far the most popular dock cleats. Designed to protect from the elements and built to last, they are a very economical solution to your docking needs. Cast with 2 holes for installation with hex bolts, it’s an easy install for any DIY project. Galvanized dock cleats are available in various sizes with the most common size ranging from 4″ to 12″.
2. Folding cleats – Aluminum
Polished Flip-Up Dock Cleats are cast from solid marine grade Almag 35 aluminum and white powder coated or burnished using a special process to give a traditional metallic finish. Flip-up cleats are durable and corrosion resistant. Flip-up cleats are excellent in applications where platform safety may be a concern or where there is heavy foot traffic. The mounting holes on these cleats are recessed so bolts stay clear of attached lines. Simply lift the cleat up to use and fold it down into the low-profile base when not in use. The most popular sizes of drop-down dock slats are 6″ and 8″. Swing-out dock clips are also available in aluminium, powder-coated white and black.
3. Angled Aluminum Rail Cleats (cleats for dock builders):
Angled Aluminum Rail Cleats are designed for aluminum framed docks. Angled clamp easily slides into place and fits most OEM spring builder style springs with an aluminum extrusion. The angle allows for a stronger hold. Angled aluminum studs are available in 8″ or 10″.
4. Classic Cove:
Classic Cleat is one of the newer products on the market, yet distinctive and highly functional, they are available to suit any requirement. Solid aluminum case and powder coated to last.
5. Solar Lighted Aluminum Cue: Save
The Solar Dock Cleat is attractive and functional with powerful solar charging performance and lashing force. Cast on an aluminum alloy chassis, they are wide with a strong base. 5 super-bright white LEDs provide side and base lighting for up to 12 hours on a single charge. The viewing distance is up to 325 feet. Solar panels are monocrystalline epoxy and are waterproof. The lights come on automatically at dusk.