A boat lift can help protect your vessel by raising it out of the water at a marina or private dock. The feature helps prevent a boat from developing corrosion and algae buildup due to constant water exposure or sinking because its bilge pump failed. It also keeps the boat safe from waves and wakes that can cause it to accidentally crash into the dock. There are several types of boat lift installations you might consider using for your storage needs. This guide outlines some common options to help you determine which is best for your property.

What Should You Know About the Different Types of Boat Lifts?

1. Cantilever Lifts

Cantilever lifts transfer the weight of the boat through two H-shaped structures. These structures lie horizontally under the water. A single cable and three pulleys lift horizontally or diagonally to raise the boat out of the lake. Cantilever lifts do not have to remain perfectly level, which makes them well suited for both shallow and deep bodies of water.

2. Vertical Lifts

Vertical lifts are used when you need to get your boat well above the waterline. They often provide as much as 56 inches of vertical lift travel to raise a boat more than 3 feet above the water level.

These features typically use four to five cables that run in Z patterns and seven to 10 pulleys. A front cable that is attached to a winch does the lifting, while the others support and balance the boat. Vertical lifts are good for lakes with high waves or in areas where water levels fluctuate significantly.

3. Floating Lifts

A floating lift has a plastic or metal air-filled chamber. When filled with air, the chamber keeps a watercraft elevated above the water. When you want to take your boat out for a spin, the chamber is flooded with water, allowing it to sink and release the vessel. Electric pumps displace the liquid to lift the boat up and out of the water when docking. These features are typically used in conjunction with floating docks or in lakes with significant water level fluctuations.

If you need a boat lift for your watercraft, reach out to MJ Dock & Lift Services in Stone Lake, WI. This family-owned and -operated business offers a wide variety of lifts, and they can install docks and lifts on your property to make boat ownership safer and easier. Visit them online to learn more about their products and services, or call (715) 415-4701 to discuss your needs with a friendly and knowledgeable team member.