Protecting Your Investment with Boat Lift Prevention
A boat lift is essential to your dock and provides many benefits. But with time, your boatlift might get damaged because of rust, which can negatively impact the lift’s functionality. It also gives a bad appearance to the lift. Therefore to ensure the longevity and performance of your boat lift, it’s crucial to do proper maintenance practices. You can prevent rust formation and protect your boatlift from getting damaged in many ways. In this blog, Let’s discuss What Can You Do To Prevent Boat Lifts From Rust?
Regular Boat Lift Maintenance
Regular maintenance prolongs your product or belonging. For the boatlift, it’s essential to do regular maintenance. Performing routine maintenance on your boat lift is key to preserving its functionality. Create a maintenance schedule and follow it regularly.
Make sure that you Inspect all components, including lift cables, lift beams, and the boat lift motor, for signs of corrosion. If you find any such signs, you should get them fixed immediately to avoid further damage. For this, you can read boat lift maintenance guides, search online or get tips from boat lift maintenance professionals. This way, you will get maximum information regarding boat lift maintenance.
Proper Lift Storage
If you want to prevent rusting of your boat lift, consider storing it when it is not in use. Store the boat lift in a covered or shaded area. You can also use a boat lift cover to shield it from direct exposure to the sun, wind, rain, and snow, wind. This protection ensures that there will be minimal chances of rusting your boat lift, and storing it when not in use keeps it in good condition and increases its overall life.
Fresh Water Rinse
Saltwater damages the surface of the lift and causes rusting. You can prevent this by rinsing the lift cables with fresh water. This step helps remove saltwater residue and contaminants that may have accumulated on the boat lift. Saltwater is highly corrosive and can accelerate the rusting process. Therefore whenever you are done boating, you should wash it properly with fresh water so that your boat and boat lift remain safe from rust. Ensure the lift and its cables are adequately washed with fresh water.
Routine Cable Maintenance
Rust can also be prevented by cable maintenance, as boat lift cables are particularly susceptible to rust due to their continuous exposure to moisture. You should regularly inspect the lift cables for signs of corrosion, fraying, or any other damage. You should also lubricate the cables as the manufacturer recommends to reduce corrosion and friction. Another thing considered very effective is applying a rust-inhibiting spray; it provides an additional protective layer to the boat lift, extending its life and saving it from rust. Make sure you do cable maintenance regularly.
Protect Lift Cords
Lift cords are another critical component of the boat lift system. The lift cords connect the boat to the cables and are prone to wear and rust. You should inspect the cords regularly and replace them if they show signs of rust or deterioration. You can apply a protective layer or coating, such as a silicone-based spray. These sprays are effective as they help prevent rust and prolong the lifespan. Make sure you also spray other parts that are prone to rust. Follow the instructions written by the manufacturer on the spray bottles to get the best results.
Use Galvanized or Stainless-Steel Hardware to Prevent Boat Lifts from Rust
Opt for galvanized or stainless-steel materials when replacing the old hardware with a newer one on your boat lifts. Galvanized or Stainless-Steel is highly resistant to rust and corrosion and is the best option for marine environments. The professionals will suggest you use these metals if you are installing boat lifts for the first time. If you already have a boat lift made up of some other metal, then you should get it replaced if you have the budget. If you are replacing any part of the boat lift, then it is suggested that you use Galvanized or Stainless-Steel. It will last longer and will remain rust-free for a longer time.
Protect Electrical Components
Protecting all electrical connections and components is essential for safety and rust prevention. Ensure all electrical connections are properly sealed and protected from humidity and moisture. It is well-known that Moisture penetration can lead to corrosion and electrical issues. Therefore, appropriate sealants and covers are suggested to prevent rust and maximize your boat lift’s safety.
Get Professional Maintenance Services
If you need clarification or have queries regarding preventing the boatlift from rusting, you can always seek professional help. Generally, boat lifts installers who provide repair and maintenance services are the best people to know all the relevant information. They understand the maintenance procedures and give you the best suggestions.
Proper boat lift maintenance ensures the best and most long-lasting performance. Here are some boat lift maintenance tips to keep in mind. It is essential to regularly inspect the lift and its components, such as beams and lift cables to check for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Also, raise the lift periodically to prevent contact with saltwater. The lift raised ensures the prevention of rust on the boat lift.
Maintaining Boat Lift & Reducing Repair Costs
There are a few practices to consider to maintain the condition and minimize the repair costs of your boat lift. High-quality penetrating oil on the lift’s moving parts, such as hinges and pulleys, is recommended. This can significantly help prevent rust and guarantee smooth boatlift operation. This regular oil application creates a protective layer against moisture and friction. Also, if your boat lifts feature carpeted wood bunks, check them regularly and in detail for any signs of wear or damage.
If you see any signs of damage, replace the old worn-out carpeting or damaged wood to avoid damage to your boat. By proactively inspecting and fixing these maintenance issues and using penetrating oil while caring for the carpeted wood bunks, you can easily extend the life of your boat lift and reduce future repair costs.
Call Foothills Dock & Lift Repair Today
If your boat lift system is experiencing rust and corrosion and requires replacement, repair, or cleaning services, you can trust us to provide reliable assistance. We are Foothills Dock & Lift Repair, a family-owned business for the last 20 years. We provide boat lifts and docks services, such as lift removal, lift repairs, and dock repairs.
Contact us today If you need any of the services mentioned above. We guarantee professional and highly satisfying services. You can also reach out to us for consultations regarding boat lift installation. We will be delighted to offer our professional guidance and address your inquiries.
