...
3301 SE Slater Street Stuart, FL USA 34997
|
or
BLOG

What Are the Common Boat Lift Materials?

a sailboat needing a Boat Lift in Bradenton

There’s nothing like a quality boat lift in Bradenton installed on your waterfront property. However, it’s important to note that manufacturers use different boat lift materials for the frame and cables. Moreover, these materials offer different benefits for specific dock conditions, water depths, and environmental factors.

It’s important to note that maintenance requirements for the boat lift structure will depend on the type of material used in its frame and cables. Since there’s no one-size-fits-all boat lift system, you’ll want to learn more about these materials when choosing the right style for your setup.

a red vessel needing a Boat Lift in Bradenton

Common Boat Lift Materials

Frame Materials

  • Galvanized Steel

While a galvanized steel lift frame makes a sturdy boat lift, its finish corrodes over time. One of the simplest ways to prevent or slow corrosion development is to hose your lift down after each use. Since galvanized steel boat lift systems feature galvanized steel hardware, their crevices will inevitably corrode even if you coat the welded areas with special paint.

While galvanized steel boat lifts are much heavier than aluminum ones, they work well when installed in deeper waters. You won’t have to remove them for winter. If your lift frame material of choice is galvanized steel, it’s best to purchase a welded black steel boat lift. Since such lifts are hot-dip galvanized, all of their metal components are fully submerged in a bath of molten zinc. This protective zinc coating helps prevent rusting down the road.

It’s important to note that the weather, waves, and usage take a toll on a boat lift. For this reason, more maintenance is required for lift frames bolted together because bolts typically come loose over time, resulting in loss of frame alignment and corrosion. Other lift components, such as cables and pulleys, suffer premature wear and tear when this happens. Alternatively, welded boat lifts don’t need boats to stay aligned since they don’t have bolts holding them together.

  • Aluminum Frame

An aluminum frame is known for its lightweight and durability. In most cases, aluminum boat lift systems have stainless steel hardware. However, aluminum works well with freshwater and saltwater because it doesn’t rust.

Furthermore, an aluminum boat lift frame is easier to work with than the galvanized steel alternative, especially if you’re planning to install your boat lift in shallower areas or fluctuating waters that require periodic lift adjustments.

Cable Materials

  • Stainless Steel

Since the cables ensure that your system lifts and lowers your vessel safely, these workhorses need to be sturdy. Stainless steel cables are highly resistant to corrosion or oxidation because they’re made with carbon steel material that contains 10% chromium. Moreover, stainless steel cables are regenerative because chromium creates a thin layer of chromium oxide upon exposure to air.

Although the chromium oxide layer protects everything underneath, prolonged exposure to salt water will eventually lead to corrosion. You can avoid corrosion issues by washing stainless steel cables with fresh water.

  • Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel cables are a more affordable option than stainless steel alternatives. A thin layer of zinc oxide on galvanized steel cables increases their resistance to corrosion. However, the cables will rust when this coating wears off over time.

a green vessel needing a Boat Lift in Bradenton

Where Can I Find a Quality Boat Lift in Bradenton?

At Hurricane Boat Lifts, we manufacture various lifts that create an easy and hassle-free boating experience. Whether you’re on a canal, lake, or Intracoastal, shallow or deep water, we have a boat lift system that will suit your needs. However, contact us today if you need a custom lift, and we’ll design a lift just for you.

Drop us a comment below!

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More recent posts

Hurricane Season Preparedness: How to Protect Your Boat and Dock with the Right Lift
Hurricane Season Preparedness: How to Protect Your Boat and Dock with the Right Lift
Every year, boat owners across coastal regions brace for the reality of hurricane season. In South Florida...
Read More
The Importance of Researching Boat Lift Permits in South Florida
The Importance of Researching Boat Lift Permits in South Florida
Installing a boat lift on your waterfront property is an exciting upgrade that brings convenience, protection,...
Read More
Comparing Different Types of Boat Lifts: Which One Suits Your Needs?
Comparing Different Types of Boat Lifts: Which One Suits Your Needs?
When it comes to protecting your boat and enhancing your waterfront lifestyle, choosing the right boat...
Read More
Hurricane Boat Lifts South: Bringing Premier Boat Lift Solutions to the Florida Keys
Hurricane Boat Lifts South: Bringing Premier Boat Lift Solutions to the Florida Keys
For many, boating is more than just a hobby—it’s a way of life. That’s exactly how Mike and Karri Hajec...
Read More
Meet the Team Behind Hurricane Boat Lifts
Meet the Team Behind Hurricane Boat Lifts
At Hurricane Boat Lifts, we take pride in delivering high-quality boat lift solutions with exceptional...
Read More
The Importance of Professional Boat Lift Installation
The Importance of Professional Boat Lift Installation
When it comes to protecting your boat and enhancing your waterfront property, a high-quality boat lift...
Read More
How Hurricane Boat Lifts Enhance Waterfront Property Value
How Hurricane Boat Lifts Enhance Waterfront Property Value
Owning a waterfront property is a dream come true for many, offering breathtaking views, easy access...
Read More
Can I Upgrade My Boat Lift?
Can I Upgrade My Boat Lift?
“I love my lift!” Few things are more rewarding for our team than knowing a customer loves their Hurricane...
Read More
Summer Boating Safety Tips, Advice, and Reminders
Summer Boating Safety Tips, Advice, and Reminders
School is out, summer is here, and there will be plenty of new “friends” at our favorite fishing, swimming,...
Read More
Hurricane Season Prep Tips for 2024
Hurricane Season Prep Tips for 2024
Summer is here, and so is hurricane season. To help you weather upcoming storms, the Hurricane Boat Lifts...
Read More
Seraphinite AcceleratorOptimized by Seraphinite Accelerator
Turns on site high speed to be attractive for people and search engines.