As a boat owner, a boat lift is an essential device for maintaining and protecting your boat. Allowing your boat to be in the water for too long will decrease the life of your watercraft, so be sure to keep it elevated.
This makes the boat lift a valuable item. If you have decided to buy a boat lift, the size of the vessel should be taken into consideration. There are two main factors to keep mind: boat weight and boat width:
Boat Weight
You need to start with knowing the weight of your boat before you consider buying a boat lift. Knowing the weight capacity you need for your boat lift will help you decide which boat lift is right for you.
You can find the base dry weight of your watercraft by checking the boat specification sheet. The sheet also includes useful information like water, storage, gas, batteries, water sports equipment and more. Typically, it’s recommended to add a 20% margin or size up when identifying your boat lift capacity. You might also want to compute the water weight, which can be done by multiplying the boat’s total waste and freshwater tank capacity.
Boat Width
You’ll also have to know about the beam and style of your boat. As the widest portion of your boat, the beam should be accommodated by the boat lift. Don’t forget to check the measurement of the cradle beam length as well. You don’t want your boat lift to be too small or too big. Be sure that either side has a minimum of a four-inch cushion. It’s also important that you have at least a ten-inch cushion in the event you’re going to use guideposts on the boat lift.
The boat lift style will depend on the hull draft shape of your watercraft. Some common shapes are Pontoon, V-Drive, V-Hull, etc. You’ll also need to identify whether you have an outboard or inboard motor.
Aside from the boat width and weight, there are other factors that you need to consider as they will also impact your buying decision. You should consider the dock shape and location. The type of water that your boat is usually exposed to should be checked. Find out if the water is deep fluctuating water or a shallow lakeshore. You’ll also need to determine the water condition where you’re going to dock your boat, especially the water level at low tide. All these factors will help you choose an appropriate boat lift type.
You won’t have difficulties with choosing the right boat lift size for your watercraft if you know these factors. You can also be sure that your watercraft will be safe and secure as the boat lift has the right capacity.
Looking for professional insight into the best lift to meet your needs? Contact us to let our friendly staff assist.
