How Much Weight Can a Drywall Lift Carry?

Description

• Drywall lifts are designed to lift and hold drywall into position so it can be attached to a frame. They consist of a framework with a central vertical post that ends in an outrigger at the top. The outrigger supports the length of the board while additional crossbars handle the width. Support hooks on the crossbars hold the load in place. A wheel manually raises and lowers the outrigger while a pivot allows the outrigger to angle the board. The framework sits on casters for easy rolling, though locks can keep the device stationary.

Weight

• Most manual drywall lifts have a maximum capacity of 150 pounds, though some can hold up to 200 pounds. The weight of drywall panels varies by length, thickness and type. The lightest regular panels measure 4-by-8 feet by 0.375-inch and weigh 45 pounds. The largest panels measure 4-by-12 feet by 0.625-inch and weigh 110 pounds. Fire code panels start at 70 pounds with dimensions of 4-by-8 feet by 0.625-inch and go up to 4-by-12 feet at the same thickness and a weight of 105 pounds.

Use

• Unless you are a contractor who puts up drywall regularly, it’s advisable to rent rather than buy a lift from your local home center. Adjust the arms to support the size of sheet you’re using. Lock the casters and outrigger into position to prevent movement then flip down the support hooks to hold the sheet. Load the drywall into the hooks, with the face of the sheet against the lift. Unlock the casters to roll the lift into position against the wall or ceiling then use the wheel and pivot to position the drywall.

Limitations

• Drywall lifts can typically hold sheets at maximum heights of 11, 15 or 19 feet. Be aware that pressing against a higher ceiling increases the load placed on the lift. Lifts made of heavier gauge steel may be needed to handle these higher loads. Larger sheets, such as those that measure 4-by-10 feet or 4-by-12 feet, may still require that two people load the lift. Automated lifts are also available with platforms that can extend from 15 to 50 feet. If your lift must negotiate narrow hallways to reach a construction area, look for one that can collapse into a smaller size for carrying or storage.