Using Boat Lifts to Your Advantage

One of the things which many boat owners enjoy using is boat lifts. This is because the boat is not always the safest in the water. This is especially true when the dock the boat is hooked up to is smaller. It is most important when the dock is only on one side of the boat. Finding the right lift will help you to protect your boat as well as keep your boat safe while you are using the lift. The lifts which are available are useful for most medium sized boats and smaller.

The Protection Lifts Offer

The biggest reason why people use boats lifts is because they have undersized boats or if there is a storm rolling in. This will protect the boat from banging against the side of the dock as the water picks up energy. Boats which can be lifted out of the water will be protected from damage both from the waters energy, but also because they will not be subjected to the rot which can occur when a boat is in the water too long. This is why most good boat houses will have the right kinds of lifts to keep high and dry.

How a Lift Operates

The way boat lifts operate will depend on the size of the boats as well as the way in which the boat will be stored. The most common method for storage is directly on the lift. The most common kind of lift will cradle the boat with straps that go under the keel. The lift will then use a pulley system to lift the boat out of the water. The other main kind of lift is the hydraulic lift. This is generally used for smaller boats and jet skis. These can also come with a function which will allow them to swing the boat so it is on the deck.

Choosing the Right Lift

Because there are many different types and models of boats lifts, it is not always easy to choose the one which is right for your boat. It is a good idea to judge the boat based on the size of your boat. You should also choose the lift depending on its ability to protect your boat even in times of extreme weather. The right lift should also be able to lift your boat by the method you prefer. This includes being able to life your boat from the water manually or with a motorized winch.

Because there are many different kinds of boats lifts, some people get intimidated when they go shopping for one. As long as you keep these factors in mind when shopping, you are sure to find a lift which will suit your needs. If you are still unsure, try talking to others who have a ship similar to yours. Ask them what kind of a lift they use as well as whether they are happy with the lift. This will give you a good jumping off point for your own lift.

Posted by:

Scott Freerksen “The Lake Guy”
Owner/Broker, RealtorĀ®
Lakefront Living Realty, LLC
Office: (508) 377-7167
LakefrontLiving.com

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