So, your beautiful new boat lift is in place, and you're looking forward to using it for many years. A well made lift should last for a long time on its own, but with proper care and attention, it can last much longer. These boat lift accessories and supplies are must-haves for any owner who wants to get the most out of their boat lift.
Related Blog: 5 Things You Can Do to Extend the Life of Your Dock
Boat Bunks and Carpet
No matter how carefully you use your hydraulic or motorized boat lift, there may come a time when a boat bunk, or the carpet attached to them, needs to be replaced.
Fortunately, it's not a huge task to remove and replace the carpeted or vinyl-coated aluminum bunks that protect your hull from scuffs and scratches as the boat is lifted or lowered into the water.
Sometimes, it's just the carpet on your bunks that needs replacing. Carpets are a boat lift feature meant to protect your vessel from being marred when hoisted or lowered in the lift. The best bunk carpet is heavy-duty and able to withstand any sort of weather. Look for marine carpet that is specially constructed to be resistant to rot, mildew, and UV fading.
Boat Lift Canopy
Most boating enthusiasts store their boat in a lift to shield the hull from barnacles, algae, and other stuff that might adhere while in standing water. Why not go all the way and protect the whole vessel with a well constructed boat lift canopy? Available in a splendid selection of styles, boat lift canopies protect your valuable watercraft from the damaging effects of wind, sun, and rain. Look for a canopy with a frame that suits your lift or contact Duncan for further advice.
Cables on Your Boat Lift
Sooner or later, you're sure to hear the unwelcome sounds of a lift cable on its last breath. It's simply a fact of life in the world of Florida boating, with all the wind, rain, and severe weather.
Look for winch cables made of galvanized steel that can stand up to the job and are impervious to rust.
Boat Lift Catwalks
Also known as a walkboard, a catwalk provides a narrow walking surface you can use when you wish to clean your boat.
Typically 14 inches wide, catwalk planks are generally constructed of aluminum that is attached to the lift with stainless steel mounting hardware. You will find that a boat lift catwalk is also quite useful when boarding and disembarking.
Floating Hinged Access Platform
As you know, an access platform simplifies the task of boarding or cleaning your boat while it's in the water. When the tide changes, however, your floating platform might not be as useful as you like. A floating hinged access platform solves that problem by moving along with shifting water levels.
Handrails
If you've ever slipped while boarding your boat at a lift, you will especially appreciate how a handrail properly installed on your dock makes it easier (and safer) to board and disembark.
Solar Boat Lift Charger
A post-mounted solar charger dedicated to your boat lift can pay for itself in no time at all by helping you save money on electricity which significantly lowers the operating cost of your boat lift.
For optimal results, look for a solar boat lift charger with an adjustable panel that can take advantage of peak sunshine hours by moving to where the sun is. Typically available in 10- and 15-watt systems, solar chargers with up to 20 watts are best for daily use as well as lifting and lowering watercraft up to 10,000 pounds.
If you're already part of the Sarasota boating community, you're certainly familiar with our name. We are Duncan Seawall, Dock & Boat Lift, and we're here to answer any questions you might have about boat life supplies and boat lift accessories. To know more, contact us today.
