Benefits of a New Boat Lift Installation

Boat sales have been up for the past several years and if you have recently bought a new boat, you know that it is a big investment. However, when you are on the water and spending time under the sun with your family and friends, you know it’s worth it. And while the benefits of owning a boat outweigh its cost, you should take steps to protect your investment with a boat lift. One of the best ways to take care of your boat in 2023 is to get your new boat lift installation before severe weather hits.

It’s true that a boat lift is an additional expense. But most people think of it as both a luxury and a sort of insurance. That’s because it can help prevent expensive repair and maintenance costs by keeping your boat safe throughout the year. So, if you are still not sure if the extra money is worth it, here are some of the top benefits of opting for a boat lift installation in 2023.

You Get Peace of Mind

A boat left tied at the dock will have water bumping it around and can lead to wear and tear. Many times, the bow of a boat gets damaged this way leading to expensive repairs. I just read this on a forum today (see it here):

“My boat crashed into this dock this weekend, and there are some serious gouges in the fiberglass on the bow. Gouged through the gel coat…I am worried about delamination of the fiberglass.”

Fortunately, with a boat lift, you will never have to worry about your boat coming untied or being damaged like this when you are not around.

In addition, you will avoid chances of your boat sinking due to severe storms, an unknown leak, a plug going bad, a failed bilge pump, or other issues. And, if your boat is not on the water, you won’t have to worry about whether your boat is safe at the dock or not.

Prevent Damage & Costly Repairs

If your boat is left tied to the dock, it can incur damage, further contributing to the need for expensive repairs and downtime. When harsh weather brings strong winds or big rains, the stresses put on a boat docked without a canopy can cause immediate problems and can also shorten its lifespan.

But because your boat lift installation lifts your craft out of the water, you can easily drain out rainwater. And wet storage also causes water line issues, hull blisters, or damage to props and shafts. So it is easy to see the differences when choosing between a boat stored on the water or one stored on a boat lift.

Prevent Corrosion & Algae

One of the biggest concerns when wet storing your boat is the formation of algae on the exterior of the boat. This will lead to multiple layers of residue and scum that can be a pain to remove from the boat. Plus, constant exposure to water can also cause the boat hull and lower engine shaft and prop to corrode over time and can eventually lead to leaks or engine problems.

So, one of the top reasons people decide on a boat lift installation on their dock is corrosion, algae build up, and scum adhesion. Storing a boat on a lift is the perfect easy solution.

Keep Your Boat in Pristine Condition

Since there is less chance of your boat being damaged due to waves, wind, corrosion, and debris when storing it out of the water, maintenance time is greatly reduced. All you have to do is just wipe the boat down whenever you’re ready to enjoy time on the water.

Got Questions About How to Install a Boat Lift?

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding boat lift installations.

Can I install a boat lift myself?

While it’s true that some people can install their own lifts, most of the time, it’s probably best not to. Especially if you’re purchasing a floating boat lift from LOTO Lift. When you are in our service area we can handle your boat lift installation for you. So you are assured that it’s a seamless process and it will be done correctly.

However, if you are purchasing a different type of boatlift system, the installation can be considerably more difficult and time-consuming. We’re often asked, “How long does it take to install my boat lift?” Fortunately, one of the great things about our floating lift is that it’s relatively easy and quick to install.

What kind of boat lift do I need to install?

We’ve previously referred to a floating boatlift system and its ease of installation. There are two other main types of boat lifts: hydraulic and mechanical. Hydraulic lifts use pressurized water to raise and lower the boat. Mechanical lifts use an electric motor to do the same thing. Both types of lifts require a concrete pad with a drain hole at least 12 inches deep. (To learn more about different types of boat lifts, read this article.)

Typically, you must dig a trench at least 24 inches wide by 36 inches long. This trench should be filled with gravel and then covered with a layer of sand. Next, pour a 4-inch thick layer of concrete into the trench. After the concrete has set up, add another 2 inches of concrete to cover the top of the first layer. Then, place the boat lift’s base plate into the center of the concrete. Finally, fill the rest of the trench with more concrete. As with any construction, make sure you get the exact dimensions needed from your boat lift manufacturer.

Where should I build my boat lift?

With a floating boat lifter, the installation will take place right in your boat slip. Part of the beauty and advantage of this system is that it will work with either a floating dock or on a stationary dock. Some other types of lifters must be installed on dock pilings, retaining walls, or on the lake or ocean bottom at your dock.

How much weight does my lift need to support?

For lift systems other than pneumatic (floating) lifts, once you’ve decided where you want to build your boat lift, you’ll need to figure out how much weight you need to support. To calculate the required capacity, multiply the lift’s length (in feet) by the width (in feet). Multiply the result by the height (in feet), and divide the product by 1,000 pounds. For example, if you want to support a 30 foot boat lift, you would multiply 30 x 30 x 30 / 1,000 = 0.3 x 0.6 x 0.6 / 1,000 =.03 x.06 x.06 / 1,000 =.0036. That means you’d need 3.6 cubic yards of concrete to support the lift.

Do I need a permit to build a boat lift?

There is no pat answer for this one. It will depend on your location and the rules and regulations accompanying your water access. The best solution is simply to ask your local boat lift dealer.

How much does a boat lift cost?

There are many sizes and types of boatlifts, so of course, the answer will vary. But the general national average prices range from $2,000 up to $30,000. A good rule of thumb is to estimate the cost at roughly $1 per pound of dry weight being lifted.

What water depth is required to install a boat lift?

Normally, most boatlifts require 3 feet of water,

but you can buy shallow water boat lifts if you have low water needs. For instance, LOTO Lift’s Shallow model operates in as little as 24″ inches of water. (Read about it here.)

Do You Need a Boat Lift Installation Near You?

If you are looking for the best floating boat lifts to protect your investment, it is important to talk to the knowledgeable team at Loto Lift to help you make the right decision. You can choose from our various types of boat lifts depending on your needs and budget. As one of the premier boat lift manufacturers in Missouri, we offer fair prices on our lifts as well as on boat lift installation cost considerations. Give us a call today—we’d love to help!

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