How to Use a PanelLift® Drywall Lift: Step-by-Step Setup & Safety Guide
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How to Use a PanelLift® Drywall Lift
Using our drywall lift doesn’t need to be tricky. A drywall lift allows one person to raise, position, and hold panels securely making ceiling and wall installs safer & faster.
This step-by-step guide explains how to use a PanelLift drywall lift, from setup through lifting and lowering panels, with real jobsite safety and efficiency in mind.
Before You Start: Jobsite Setup & Inspection
Drywall lift jobsite checklist
- Use the lift only on flat, solid surfaces
- Clear debris and obstacles from the work area
- Keep the lift away from electrical hazards
- Maintenance check
Drywall lift inspection checklist
Before each use:
- Inspect the cable for wear or fraying
- Check winch operation and brake engagement
- Confirm that all pins, arms, and supports move freely
- Do not use the lift if any components are damaged
Make routine inspects a habit to protect yourself and others.
PanelLift Drywall Lift Setup: Step by Step
Step 1: Assemble the base and frame
Position the base on level ground and assemble the upper vertical frame sections.
Step 2: Install the drywall support arms
Attach the panel support arms according to the panel orientation.
Make sure all arms are fully seated and locked.
Step 3: Adjust for panel size
Adjust the lift to match standard drywall sizes. Proper sizing prevents shifting during lifting and keeps the panel balanced.
How to Load Drywall onto a PanelLift
Step-by-step loading process
1. Lower the lift arms to loading height.
2. Extend lift arm hooks.
3. Center drywall panel onto the lift arm hooks with finished side facing toward the lift arms. This will place the finish side of the sheet inside of the room when installed.
Never lift a panel that is off-center or unsecured.
How to Raise Drywall to the Ceiling
Step-by-step lifting process
1. For Ceilings, Extend the Cradle Outriggers.
2. Rotate panel into the flat position, engage the Mounting Head Latch. This keeps it horizontal.
3. Turn the winch handle clockwise to raise the panel.
4. Rotate panel so hooks don't interfere with panel when placing next to wall or another sheet.
5. Lift slow and evenly.
6. Stop just below the ceiling surface.
7. Make fine adjustments for proper alignment and final lifting.
Ceiling installation tips
- Keep hands clear while raising
- Make small adjustments rather than large lifts
- Ensure the panel stays level throughout the lift
Knowing how to raise drywall with a PanelLift makes ceiling installs a one-person job instead of a multi-person struggle.
How to Use a PanelLift for Wall Installations
PanelLift drywall lifts can also be used for wall panels.
Wall installation steps
- For Walls, Extend the Cradle Outriggers.
- Rotate panel so the center leg and winch are on the opposite side of the panel when it is in the vertical position. This allows the legs to be positioned to allow the sheet to be vertical when next to the wall.
- Deploy the Tripod Brake. This keeps the lift next to the wall.
- Turn the winch handle clockwise to raise the panel.
- Lift slow and evenly.
- Stop at the desired top level of panel or when it meets the ceiling surface.
- Make fine adjustments for proper alignment and final lifting. Push flat against the wall framing.
This method reduces fatigue and helps maintain consistent panel alignment.
Drywall Lift Safety Rules
- Never exceed the lift’s rated capacity
- Keep feet and hands clear of moving parts
- Do not modify the lift or use non-approved parts
- Never leave a loaded lift unattended
- Store the lift properly when not in use
These drywall lift safety rules extend equipment life and reduce jobsite injuries.
Why a Drywall Lift Improves Productivity
For contractors and crews
- One-person ceiling installs
- Faster panel placement
- Reduced back and shoulder strain
- Consistent results across rooms
For DIYers
- Safer alternative to lifting panels by hand
- Better control during ceiling installs
- More confidence working solo
A drywall lift turns physically demanding work into a controlled, repeatable process.
When to Use a PanelLift vs Manual Lifting
A PanelLift drywall lift is ideal when:
- Installing ceiling drywall
- Handling large or heavy panels
- Working solo or with limited crew
- Repeating installs across multiple rooms
Manual lifting may work for small jobs, but a drywall lift quickly pays for itself by saving time and avoiding injuries.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how to use a PanelLift drywall lift correctly leads to safer jobsites, faster installs, and better finished results. With proper setup and operation, a drywall lift becomes an essential part of efficient panel installation.
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