Dock Cleats

Dock cleats are one of those items created by investment casting that most people do not realize come in so many varieties. Style is not the only difference in cleats created for different applications; marine, deck, dock and boat cleats.

Another variation is dock cleats is the type of metal used in the casting. Brass or marine-grade aluminum is often used for durability and corrosion resistance. There are also chrome plated zinc alloy cleats and cleats cast from 316 stainless steel.

As mentioned above, the various styles of marine cleats can be a significant surprise to those who are not familiar with cleats. Not all cleats look like some type of short “T” with long arms. On some styles the “arms” are curved sideways in an “S”. Other times the “arms” curve slightly upwards on each end.

There’s the folding cleat that lays flat against the deck and can be flipped upwards when needed.

There’s what’s called an open-base cleat that is designed with two legs, instead of just the more common single base.

There’s a zigzag cleat that eliminates the need for a knot as the line weaves around the posts which tend to “grab” and secure the line.

There’s a push-up deck cleat that can be push down into the deck and out of the way when not in use.

All of these marine and boat, deck and dock cleats are created by investment casting using different metals or alloys ensuring the cleats will last longer than the deck or dock to which they are attached.

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