Boat lifts are an essential tool for anyone who owns a boat, particularly those who live on the water or have a dock on their property. They make it easy to lift boats out of the water for maintenance, repairs, or storage, and help to protect boats from damage caused by waves, currents, and other environmental factors. With a variety of different types of boat lifts available for residential purposes, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your needs. In this article, we'll explore the different types of boat lifts commonly used for residential purposes, and their pros and cons, to help you make an informed decision when selecting the best boat lift for your specific situation.

Boat Lift Selection Criteria

There are several key factors to consider when selecting a boat lift:

1. Boat Size and Weight: The size and weight of your boat are important considerations when choosing a lift. Different lifts have weight and size limits, so it's essential to choose one that can safely handle your boat.
2. Water Depth: The depth of the water in which you'll be using the lift is another critical factor. Some lifts require deeper water than others to operate effectively.
3. Location: The specific location of your dock or property is another consideration. Some lifts may not be suitable for use in areas with strong currents, waves, or other environmental factors.
4. Clearance: You'll need to consider the clearance required to operate the lift effectively. Some lifts require more clearance than others, which may not be feasible in certain locations.
5. Maintenance: The amount of maintenance required for a lift is an important consideration. Some lifts require more maintenance than others, and you'll want to choose one that fits your budget and maintenance capabilities.
6. Budget: The cost of the lift is another essential consideration. Different lifts have varying costs, and you'll want to choose one that fits within your budget.

By considering these factors, you can choose the boat lift that best meets your specific needs and provides safe and effective boat lifting capabilities for years to come.

Boat Lift Types

There are several different kinds of boat lifts available for residential purposes. Here are some of the most common types along with their pros and cons.

Vertical Boat Lifts

Vertical boat lifts are designed to raise and lower boats in a vertical direction, using a system of cables and pulleys. These lifts are ideal for deeper water applications or locations where water levels may fluctuate. They lift boats of all sizes, from small dinghies to large yachts.

Pros:

• Vertical lifts are easy to install and require minimal maintenance
• They are suitable for use in deeper water applications or locations where water levels may fluctuate
• They can be used to lift boats of all sizes
• They are relatively affordable

Cons:

• Vertical lifts require a relatively large amount of clearance above the waterline, which can be an issue in some locations
• They can be slow to operate compared to other types of lifts
• They are not suitable for use in areas with strong currents or waves

Cantilever Boat Lifts

Cantilever boat lifts use a horizontal bar to support the weight of the boat, and a system of cables and pulleys to lift it out of the water. They are designed to be used in water that is at least three feet deep.

Pros:

• Cantilever lifts are relatively affordable
• They are easy to install and maintain
• They can be used to lift boats of all sizes
• They are suitable for use in areas with moderate currents or waves

Cons:

• Cantilever lifts require a significant amount of clearance behind the boat to operate
• They can be slower to operate than other types of lifts
• They may require more maintenance than other types of lifts, as the cables and pulleys can wear out over time

Hydraulic Boat Lifts

Hydraulic boat lifts use a hydraulic system to lift and lower boats, and are ideal for use in water that is at least six feet deep. They can be used to lift boats of all sizes, from small dinghies to large yachts.

Pros:

• Hydraulic lifts are very fast and easy to operate
• They are suitable for use in deep water
• They can be used to lift boats of all sizes
• They are very reliable and require minimal maintenance

Cons:

• Hydraulic lifts are the most expensive type of lift
• They require a significant amount of space to operate
• They may require professional installation and maintenance

Floating Boat Lifts

Floating boat lifts use a system of flotation devices, such as air tanks or foam-filled pontoons, to lift and support the weight of the boat. They are designed to be used in water that is at least four feet deep.

Pros:

• Floating lifts are very versatile and can be used in a variety of locations
• They require minimal space to operate
• They can be used to lift boats of all sizes
• They are relatively affordable

Cons:

• Floating lifts may be less stable than other types of lifts, especially in areas with strong currents or waves
• They may require more maintenance than other types of lifts, as the flotation devices can wear out over time
• They may not be suitable for use in very shallow water

Need Help Selecting Your Boat Lift?

Whether it's a fishing boat, pontoon, personal watercraft or a high performance speed boat, Hewitt has the boat lift perfectly sized, equipped and priced for your needs. Hewitt Lifts keep your watercraft convenient and ready while protecting them from the damaging effects of prolonged exposure to waves, algae and floating debris. Hewitt Canopies provide additional protection, shielding your boat from rain, hail and sun.

We will gladly assist you in selecting the right boat lift for your lakefront property. Contact us today to get started!