floating boat lifts blog

The Do’s and Don’t of Floating Boat Lifts

Curious to learn more about the dos and don'ts of floating boat lifts? A Floating Docks and Gangways provides a sleek, low-profile dock and lift combination that is ideal for lakefront communities.

A floating boat lift is buoyant and sits along the surface of the water, as opposed to a fixed dock that is supported by permanent structure (i.e., pilings, seawall, rip rap, etc.). This makes a floating boat lift the perfect solution for conditions where the tide fluctuates significantly or where local regulations restrict the installation of fixed docks.

A valued partner of IMM Quality Boat Lifts, Nelson Marine Construction offers a variety of patented floating boat lifts, including this stable, dependable 7,000-pound capacity NelSun series. The mechanisms are custom-engineered by IMM Quality Boat Lifts and also feature luxurious Azek vinyl decking and fascia.

Located in Bonita Springs, Nelson Marine Construction is owned and operated by lifelong Southwest Florida residents.

This fully licensed and insured company has 40 years of experience and an impeccable reputation for quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. They provide customers with a variety of floating docks and boat lift options. Many feature IMM Quality Boat Lifts engineering and manufacturing for dependability and longevity.

The photo above shows how the boat lift is integrated into the floating dock structure. The lift is supported by cross beams reinforced with sturdy gussets, all hidden under the decking of the floating dock. Removable panels provide access to the lift during installation and for maintenance.

Beyond being stable, floating boat lifts are more affordable than one might expect. Just think about it! You won’t have to pay to have pilings driven, which is a significant savings. However, it is extremely important to use a quality contractor like Nelson Marine Construction, who knows how to properly secure your floating boat lift and dock.

For the professionals, floating boat lifts are fast and easy to install. They also require less labor, hardware and accessories than other boat lift options.

The Dos and Don’ts of Floating Boat Lifts in 8 Easy Steps

According to the experts at IMM Quality Boat Lifts, the dos and don'ts of floating boat lifts are simple. For anyone who has purchased an IMM Quality floating boat lift, here are the steps to ensure you are using your boat lift safely and efficiently.

Step #1: Do make sure the floating lift is properly anchored to the shore. This will ensure that it doesn't move or shift around during use.
Step #2: Do make sure the lift capacity is sufficient for your boat.
Step #3: Do make sure the boat is properly centered on the lift cradles. This will help keep the floating dock level in the water.
Step #4: Do make sure that there is sufficient water depth for your boat at the floating dock location.
Step #5: Do not bottom out the lift cradles when lowering the lift. This accident will unspool the lift cables, potentially snarling them and will prevent the cables from winding properly within the grooves.
Step #6: Do not power your boat onto the lift. Only float the boat on and off the lift cradles.
Step #7: Do raise the boat lift until your watercraft is entirely out of the water. Be sure to keep it stable while doing this.
Step #8: Do secure your boat to the dock while out of the water, using lines and the integrated cleats.
Step #9: Do not forget to perform annual maintenance on the boat lift.
Step #10: Do lower your boat back into the water, and enjoy some much needed rest and relaxation!

Follow these dos and don'ts for floating boat lifts, and you'll be ready to quickly head for open waters with your family!

Feeling intrigued by the idea of a floating boat lift for your waterfront home? There are plenty of options available from which to choose. REQUEST A QUOTE and we'll give you a call!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Do's and Don’t of Floating Boat Lifts

Proper anchoring to the shore is crucial to prevent movement or shifting.

Verify that the lift's capacity is sufficient for your boat.

Centering your boat on the lift cradles is important for balance.

Boats should only be floated on and off the cradles to avoid damage.

Performing annual maintenance on the boat lift is recommended.