Aerial Lifts You Should Rent for Hurricane Preparation

As hurricane season ramps up, preparation is key—especially for property managers and contractors responsible for protecting infrastructure. The right aerial lift can make pre-storm tasks faster, safer, and more efficient.

Here are the top aerial lift types you should consider renting to get ahead of hurricane risks.

Towable Boom Lifts: Lightweight & Ready to Roll

Towable boom lifts are perfect for quick-response tasks, especially in residential areas or small commercial jobs. Their portability allows easy hitching to trucks. This makes them a go-to for on-the-fly deployments when storms are imminent.

Ideal for:

• Trimming tree limbs: Remove overhanging branches that could fall onto buildings, vehicles, or power lines during high winds.
• Clearing branches from gutters and rooftops: Prevent clogs that can cause flooding or water intrusion.
• Inspecting and cleaning gutters: Maintain proper drainage by clearing out leaves, twigs, and debris.
• Hanging or removing storm shutters: Access hard-to-reach windows safely to install protective coverings.

Why Rent It for Hurricane Prep:

• Portable and hitchable: Can be towed by a standard pickup truck without special licensing.
• User-friendly operation: No specialized training required—great for DIYers and small teams.
• Short-term flexibility: Available for 1–3 day rentals, ideal for last-minute prep jobs.

During Hurricane Matthew, over 120,000 trees were downed on Hilton Head Island alone, contributing to billions in cleanup and repair costs. A towable lift is one of the fastest ways to trim high-risk trees before the storm hits.

Pro Tip: Choose a model with at least 30–45 feet of reach to safely access rooflines and tree canopies.

Articulating Boom Lifts: Reach Over Obstacles

Articulating boom lifts (aka “knuckle booms”) offer exceptional flexibility. Their jointed arms allow you to maneuver over awnings, fences, or landscaping. This makes them ideal for accessing hard-to-reach areas around buildings and rooftops.

Ideal for:

• Inspecting roofs and sealing seams: Identify and fix weak points vulnerable to wind and rain.
• Securing windows and storm panels: Especially useful for multi-story buildings and elevated glass walls.
• Removing or adjusting exterior signage: Prevent signs from becoming airborne hazards.
• Accessing roof-mounted HVAC or communication units: Inspect and reinforce equipment that could detach in strong winds.

Advantages During Storm Prep:

• Articulating arm: Reaches up and over obstructions that straight booms can’t handle.
• Versatile height and reach: Excellent for navigating around architectural features.
• Rough-terrain models available: Ideal for uneven or unpaved job sites.

After Hurricane Ian (2022), FEMA found that 90% of homes with roofs installed before 2015 were damaged, compared to just 28% with newer roofs. That’s a clear reason to inspect older rooftops before the next storm hits.

Storm Scenario Example: Use an articulating boom to install bracing over high windows or to remove hanging signage before strong winds arrive.

Rough Terrain Scissor Lifts: Stabilize on the Jobsite

For larger commercial or industrial properties, rough terrain scissor lifts provide the platform space and stability needed to handle multi-person crews and tools. These are essential for bracing structures, stormproofing outdoor assets, and working on uneven or muddy ground.

Perfect for:

• Installing temporary wind barriers: Place plywood panels or storm netting on large windowed surfaces.
• Securing outdoor signage and structures: Bolt down fixtures, awnings, and loose architectural details.
• Repairing exterior lighting: Protect and reinforce high-mounted lights to prevent breakage and outages.
• Clearing jobsite hazards: Safely access and remove debris or unsecured materials from elevated surfaces.

Why It’s a Smart Pre-Storm Rental:

• Large work platform: Supports up to 1,000 lbs.—great for two workers with tools and materials.
• Enhanced safety features: Guardrails, non-slip flooring, and lift locks.
• 4WD and foam-filled tires: Traverse rugged or soggy terrain with stability.

According to Nationwide and HKA Global, extreme weather delays impact 45% of construction projects worldwide and cost the industry billions annually in lost productivity and repairs. Having the right aerial lift can help mitigate downtime and keep critical timelines on track.

Use Tip: Consider renting models with foam-filled tires for extra durability on storm-softened ground.

Get Hurricane-Ready with Discount Lift Rentals

Preparation makes all the difference during hurricane season. By choosing the right aerial lift, you can tackle storm-prep tasks safely and efficiently.

Don’t wait for the next storm alert.
Inventory gets tight fast during hurricane season—and the last thing you want is to be caught without the gear you need.

Rent your aerial lift today from Discount Lift Rentals and get fast delivery, nationwide support, and expert help choosing the right equipment.