Boat Lifts 101: Exploring the Different Lift Options Available from Deaton’s

When it comes to protecting your boat, preventing hull damage, and simplifying your time on the water, investing in a reliable boat lift is a must. At Deaton’s Waterfront Services, we proudly offer a range of premium boat lift options to meet the needs of both residential and commercial waterfronts.

What Boat Lifts Do We Offer?

Whether you’re docking at a lake home or managing a marina, understanding the types of boat lifts available can help you make the best choice for your site. We install the most trusted brands in the business today, and each one offers unique advantages for different boat sizes, water levels, and preferences.

1. ShoreStation: Fast, Reliable, and Stationary

ShoreStation is known as one of the most innovative stationary boat lifts on the market. Designed for speed and security, ShoreStation lifts are built to simplify docking while protecting your investment.

A built-in bow stop ensures that your boat lines up perfectly every time, so you don’t have to worry about overrunning the lift. These lifts can be operated manually or motorized, making it easy to get in and out of the water quickly.

ShoreStation lifts are also highly customizable, with both hydraulic and cable-driven models available. Plus, the lift’s durable vinyl canopy provides added UV protection for your boat. When you want a low-maintenance, highly dependable lift, ShoreStation is an excellent choice.

2. Sunstream: Smart Lifts for Challenging Water Levels

Sunstream boat lifts are ideal for locations with fluctuating water levels. These lifts are available as either floating or stationary systems, which means you get more flexibility based on your dock setup.

Sunstream’s hydraulic operation takes the hassle out of docking by eliminating manual cranking altogether. What’s more, they are compact and easy to use. Whether you’re in a deep lake or a shallow space, there’s a Sunstream solution to fit your space.

3. Econo Lift: Budget-Friendly and Built to Last

Manufactured in the heart of the Lake of the Ozarks, Econo Lift boat lifts offer high-quality performance at an affordable price. These floating lifts are made from 100% American materials and are engineered for long-lasting durability. While some brands use re-manufactured plastic in their tanks, Econo Lift works with top-tier materials for every setup.

A standout feature of Econo Lift is the recent release of their shallow water models. These new options can support boats weighing up to 4,500 or 6,500 pounds, making them a great solution for areas with limited depth. If you’re looking for a dependable lift without a high price tag, Econo Lift delivers outstanding value.

4. Poly Lift: Premium Protection with Hydraulic Power

Poly Lift offers floating boat lifts in two distinct models: the classic Poly Lift and the Roto Lift. Both use a hydraulic lift system for smooth operation and come standard with a motor for added convenience. These lifts are well-suited for boaters who want the power of hydraulic lifting without worrying about corrosion or splintering.

Because the boat is always raised out of the water, Poly Lift options help prevent zebra mussels and other invasive species from damaging the hull. The design is especially useful for anyone keeping their boat in the water full-time or through varying seasonal conditions.

Find the Right Lift with Deaton’s Waterfront Services

Choosing the right lift starts with understanding your shoreline and boat specifications. If you’re ready to upgrade your boating experience with a quality lift, Deaton’s is here to help.

At Deaton’s Waterfront Services, we help you navigate every step of the process—from product selection to installation and maintenance. Our team has experience working with all types of properties, and we proudly serve customers in Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Illinois, Tennessee, and Missouri. No matter your waterfront, we’ll match you with a lift system that’s built to last and easy to use.

Reach out today to request a quote, learn more about your options, or schedule a consultation. We’ll make sure you’re equipped with the perfect lift for your site—so you can spend more time enjoying the water and less time worrying about your boat.

Why Do I Need to Store My Boat on a Lift?

Boat are made for the water, so one might think “Why don’t I just leave my boat in the water?”. While boats are designed to travel on water, leaving a boat in the water either year round or for the entire season will damage a boat. Many new boat owners may be surprised to hear this. Leaving your boat in the water will cause your investment to lose value a lot sooner, leading to more money being spent at some point. Fortunately, there is a solution to protect a boat and leave it out on the water without having to pull it in and out every time: a boat lift!

A boat safely stored on a lift.

Types of Damage Cause by Water

Leaving your boat in the water will lead to everything below the waterline to corrode over time due to the acidic nature of water minerals. Water is very detrimental to a boat’s hull. A couple of the most common damage types caused by leaving a boat in the water are blisters in the hull’s lining or the color fading over time. A boat sitting in water will also have lime and algae cover the hull, so there will be a sticky residue on the bottom. Damage caused by leaving a boat in water can all be prevented by simply lifting the boat above the waterline with a lift.

Benefits of Owning A Boat Lift

A boat lift will pay for itself over time by keeping your boat in the condition that you bought it in. There are many types of boat lifts designed to fit all types of docks and water conditions, it’s just a matter of finding the perfect one that fits your needs. By keeping your boat above the waterline, you’re going to save hundreds of dollars in maintenance over the years. Another big benefit of a boat lift is the stability provided. Having a boat in a secure place where it won’t go anywhere makes boarding much easier.

EZ BoatPort: The Simplest Solution to Boat Lifts

No matter what type of boat you own or what your needs might be, EZ Dock will find a solution. For boat owners, we offer a drive-on boat lift that makes the launching and docking process a breeze: the EZ BoatPort. An EZ BoatPort simply requires the user to drive right on, and back right off without any cranking or labor needed. A BoatPort can accommodate any size boat, except pontoons. With the right configuration for your hull, even a beginning boater will be able to safely store their dock out of water.

An EZ BoatPort in action.

EZ BoatPort is also a maintenance-free option! With its durable polyethylene construction, an EZ BoatPort will never rust, have cables snap, need legs replaced, need a new winch tube, or any of the headaches that come with owning a steel or aluminum boat lift. It can stand on it’s own, be attached to any existing floating or stationary dock, and of course is instantly compatible with any EZ Dock system.

If you’re interested in a new boat lift solution, look no further than EZ Dock! Our EZ BoatPort series can make life easier for any boat owner. No more damage from the water or mother nature to your boat. It’s time to protect your investment and keep it in the shape it was in the day you bought it! Those interested in getting a boat lift near them can feel free to contact us, or give us a call at (800) 654-8168.