Summer is the perfect time to enjoy life on the water, but it’s also the ideal season to inspect your shoreline, dock and boat lift systems for signs of wear and potential safety concerns. Taking a few minutes to evaluate these critical components can help prevent costly repairs and protect your investment for years to come.
Inspect Your Shorewall
Take a close look at your shoreline. Has it begun to push outward? Are there areas where soil has washed out behind or around the wall? Erosion and wall movement should be addressed promptly before additional damage occurs. LF Lakeside Construction brings more than 30 years of experience to evaluate the condition of your shoreline and determine whether repairs can be localized or if additional sections of wall should be replaced.
Check the Foundation of Your Boathouse
A solid foundation is essential for any boathouse. Property owners should inspect the steel support pipes located beneath their boathouse for signs of corrosion, rust or holes that may have developed over time. Structural weaknesses often begin below the waterline and may not be obvious until significant damage has occurred.
Before investing in renovations or storing a high-value boat in your boathouse, make sure the structure is resting on a secure and stable foundation. Addressing foundation concerns early can prevent expensive repairs and provide peace of mind.
Evaluate Your Boat Lift
Your boat lift works hard throughout the boating season and should be inspected regularly.
Look closely at the lift cables. If you notice fraying, broken strands or excessive wear, replacement may be necessary before a failure occurs. Cables are one of the most critical safety components of your lift system.
Pay attention to the lift motor as well. A squealing or unusual noise may indicate that the unit needs lubrication, maintenance or adjustment. In some cases, the noise may be a sign that the boat being lifted exceeds the lift’s intended capacity.
Remember Boat Upgrades
Many boat owners upgrade to larger boats over time, but not everyone remembers to verify that their existing lift is rated to safely support the additional weight. Operating a lift beyond its capacity can lead to premature wear, equipment damage and potential safety hazards.
If you’ve recently purchased a larger boat, now is a great time to confirm that your lift is properly sized for your new investment. Fun Fact: The average boatlift 30-40 years ago was 4,000 lbs. capacity. Today most boat lifts are 6,500 lbs. It may be time to upgrade to an 8,500 lb. lift. A lift upgrade is the prefect time to adjust your support boards to ensure they properly fit your new boat. This provides safe support and optimal positioning while the boat is stored.
Protect Your Investment
Routine inspections and preventative maintenance can save waterfront property owners thousands of dollars in unexpected repairs. Whether you’re concerned about shoreline erosion, retaining wall damage, boathouse foundations or boat lift performance, having a professional evaluation can help identify issues before they become major problems.
A little attention today can help ensure many more summers of worry-free enjoyment on the water. Contact Lorne Faletic at LF Lakeside Construction by calling (217) 343-8435 or on Facebook for more details on how to protect your investment.
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