Marine Fasteners, Hardware & Kits

Marine Fasteners and Boat Fastener Kits

Marine fasteners and kits are typically made from corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel or bronze, ensuring durability and longevity. Whether you're working on a small boat or a large yacht, choosing the right marine fasteners and hardware is crucial for the safety and performance of your vessel.

Types of Marine Fasteners and Hardware

Marine fasteners include a variety of components, such as screws, bolts, nuts, and washers. Each type of fastener has a unique purpose and is designed to meet specific needs:

• Marine Screws: Commonly used for securing wood, fiberglass, and other materials. Available in stainless steel, titanium, brass, and silicone bronze.
• Marine Bolts: Essential for securing larger components and providing structural integrity. Types include hex head bolts, carriage bolts, and U-bolts.
• Marine Nuts: Used in conjunction with bolts to secure components. Types include hex nuts and lock nuts.
• Marine Washers: Provide a smooth surface for nuts and bolts to distribute the load evenly. Types include flat washers, lock washers, and fender washers.

Materials Used in Marine Fasteners

Marine fasteners are made from materials that resist corrosion and wear in marine environments:

• Stainless Steel: The most common material for marine fasteners due to its excellent corrosion resistance. Grades 304 and 316 are particularly popular, with 316 offering superior resistance to saltwater corrosion.
• Bronze: Known for its durability and resistance to corrosion, especially in saltwater environments.
• Brass: Corrosion-resistant and provides excellent durability in marine environments.
• Titanium: Used in specific applications where additional strength or corrosion resistance is required.
• Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for marine applications.

Choosing the Right Marine Fasteners

Selecting the appropriate marine fasteners depends on several factors:

• Material Being Fastened: Different materials require different types of fasteners. For example, wood screws are ideal for wooden components, while machine screws are better for metal parts.
• Location on the Boat: Fasteners used in areas exposed to saltwater need higher corrosion resistance.
• Expected Load: The strength of the fastener must match the load it will bear. For high-stress applications, opt for stronger materials like stainless steel or titanium.

Marine Fastener Kits

Marine fastener kits offer pre-assembled packages of fasteners and hardware for specific projects. These kits are convenient and ensure you have all the necessary components for your task.

Common kits include:

• Canvas Snap Fastener Kits: Ideal for securing boat covers and bimini tops.
• Bolt and Nut Assortment Kits: Provide a variety of bolts and nuts for general maintenance and repairs.

Proper Installation and Maintenance

Proper installation and maintenance of marine fasteners are crucial for their longevity and performance.

Here are some tips:

• Use the Correct Tools and Techniques: It sounds obvious, but use the right tools for installing each type of fastener. For balsa-cored decks, drill a bigger hole than needed and fill it with epoxy before drilling the correct size hole. This will prevent moisture from getting into the balsa.
• Apply Anti-Seize Compounds: Prevents galling and makes future removal easier.
• Regular Inspections: Check fasteners periodically for signs of corrosion or wear and replace them as needed.

By understanding the different types of marine fasteners and their applications, you can ensure your boat remains safe and functional. Fisheries Supply is your premium marine bolt supply store. We carry specialty marine fasteners, stainless marine fasteners, and several sizes of marine bolts and screws.