3 Signs Your Boat Dock Needs Replaced

Your Lake of the Ozarks boat lift and boat dock work together to keep your boat protected. How old is your dock? Is it still capable of doing it's job? While some dock issues can easily be repaired, sometimes docks get to a point beyond simple repair. Summerset Boat Lifts is here to help you decide if it's time to get that boat dock replaced with a few signs to look for.

1. Wood Rot Throughout the Dock. 

Over time, wooden docks can easily experience a little wood rot. Fungus from the water can cause dry rot, and you may notice some of your wood components beginning to decay and crumble. If the wood rot is contained to certain areas, you can most likely just replace those individual boards and pieces. However, if the wood rot has spread throughout the dock, it's time to start thinking about replacing your dock. One wrong step on a rotted board and you could fall through the dock. Avoid the dangers of wood rot on your dock by getting it repaired or replaced as soon as possible after you notice it. 

2. Warped or Cracked Dock Supports. 

Depending on the material your dock is made of, the rough waters of the Lake of the Ozarks can cause it to warp or bend under pressure. Sometimes this can lead to cracks and breaks. Hitting your boat into the dock while trying to dock it is also another common cause of cracked or broken supports. If the cracks are minor and localized, you might be able to get away with just replacing a few boards and beams. However, if major, load-bearing components have multiple breaks, it's in your best interest to replace the whole structure to assure structural integrity.

3. Rusted Out Platforms or Supports. 

Any docks that are made of metal are subject to rusting. Small rust spots can sometimes be repaired or will sometimes just require replacement of individual parts. If your supports seem to be overtaken by rust, it would probably be worth your while to just replace the entire structure. You may even consider having a new dock built with different materials that won't rust like that.

To avoid having to replace your dock, be sure to keep it maintained throughout the year. Lubricate the metal components to prevent rust and replace rotted wood with treated lumber. You should also have your dock sealed at least once per year. In addition to keeping your dock maintained, it's important to keep your boat lift maintained as well. For all your Lake of the Ozarks boat lift maintenance needs, give Summerset Boat Lifts a call at 573-348-5073.

Summerset Boat Lifts

1165 Jeffries Road Osage Beach, MO  65065

573-348-5073

Email:info@summersetboatlifts.com

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Staying Hydrated on the Lake this Summer

When you step outside, you can definitely tell that summer is here at the Lake of the Ozarks. This week in particular, is supposed to be extremely hot, with heat advisories lasting through Friday. The heat in combination with high humidity can cause dehydration. Summerset Boat Lifts wants to make sure you stay hydrated while enjoying the Lake this summer. Here are a few tips to help you avoid dehydration during the hot Missouri summer season:

1. Make Sure to Drink Enough Water. 

When you think about dehydration, the first thing that comes to mind is that your body isn't getting enough water. Your body needs water to function properly and when it's hot and humid, your body loses water much faster. Water is the most essential nutrient. As a general rule of thumb, you should drink about half your body weight in water. So for example, if you weigh 150, you would want to drink 75 ounces of water per day. However, if you're exercising, you will want to increase your water intake. If you are heading out on the water for the day, be sure to bring enough bottled water with you to keep everyone hydrated throughout the entire day.

2. Regulate Your Water Intake. 

In addition to the amount of water you consume each day, it's important that you pay attention to how often you are drinking your water. It's important that your water intake occurs in somewhat regular intervals throughout the day. Chugging a gallon of water and then not drinking anymore for like 6 hours isn't a good idea. There is a such thing as drinking too much water at once and you should spread your water intake out throughout the day. Keep in mind that thirst isn't a good indicator of hydration because if you're feeling thirsty, chances are you're already becoming dehydrated. Like mentioned before, bring plenty of bottled water with you for a day of fun in the sun, you don't want all the water to be gone at the beginning of your journey and then be thirsty the rest of the boat ride.

3. Mix Up Your Drinks. 

While plain water is best, you don't have to only drink water all day to stay hydrated. There are other drinks that can hydrate you as well. Consider grabbing an ice cold smoothie, a sports drink, coconut water,or even a tea or coffee. I know what you're thinking, coffee can count as water? Well not exactly, but in a way yes. You don't want to just drink coffee all day and have no water, but coffee is a fluid and can be counted towards your water intake. According to a report by the National Research Council's Food and Nutrition Board, the amount of caffeine in tea and coffee does not discount the fluid in them.While it might not be easy to make a smoothie on a boat, you can easily pack some sports drinks in with the bottled water to offer some variety in drink choices.

4. Eat Your Water Too. 

While it's important to drink enough water, you can also get water through the foods that you eat. In fact, according to the Institute of Medicine's recommendations, you should eat 20 percent of your daily water intake. Next time you're feeling thirsty, pile some delicious summer-friendly fruits and veggies on your plate. Watermelon, celery, cucumbers, strawberries and lettuce are all great foods to help you stay hydrated. Each of these foods contain various levels of water, as well as other important nutrients for the body. Instead of just packing salty chips and cookies, add some fresh fruit to your snacking menu on the boat. Fruit can easily be thrown in the cooler along with the bottled water to stay chilled throughout the day.

Your favorite boat lift dealer at the Lake of the Ozarks hopes you have a fun and safe time out on the water this summer! If you're out on the water and notice that someone else's lift or even your own lift might be in need of some boat lift repair at the Lake of the Ozarks, give Summerset Boat Lifts a call at 573-348-5073.

Summerset Boat Lifts

1165 Jeffries Road Osage Beach, MO  65065

573-348-5073

Email:info@summersetboatlifts.com

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4 Benefits of Having Your Boat on a Lift

When it comes to purchasing a boat lift at the Lake of the Ozarks, you may think, "do I really need one?" The answer is yes! The cost of a boat lift only accounts for a small percentage of your boating expenses, while it will end up saving you even more in boat maintenance. In today's blog, Summerset Boat Lifts offers 4 benefits to having your boat on a lift:

1. Keeps Your Boat Cleaner.

The bottom of your boat requires regular cleaning, even with bottom paint. A boat lift will keep the bottom of your boat clean, free of grime and lake scum. Easily keep your boat's hull shiny and clean by storing it up out of the water.

2. Prevents Boat Damage.

The primary cause of hull blisters is from wet storage of your boat. In addition, wet storage can cause damage to out-drives, props and shafts. By investing in a boat lift, you can significantly reduce the possibility of these types of damage to your boat. Storing your boat above the water line will also reduce the amount of regular wear and tear on your boat.

3. Saves You Money.

Storing your boat on a lift can save you a lot of money in the long run. Not only will you save on repair and maintenance costs, but dry storage can significantly increase the resale value of your boat. A clean bottom enhances performance, saves fuel, increases range and eliminates the recurring cost of bottom painting.

4. Reduces the Risk of Your Boat Sinking. 

Did you know that 85% of boats that sink, do so at their dock? A dead battery or a failed bilge pump is all it takes to lose your boat. When you invest in a Lake of the Ozarks boat lift, you can rest assured that your boat is protected. You also don't have to worry about it coming untied and floating down the main channel.

Summerset Boat Lifts is your premier boat lift dealer at the Lake of the Ozarks. Whether you're looking for a brand new or used boat lift, we've got the best selection for you to choose from. We'll help you pick out the perfect lift for your needs, based on your boat size. Give us a call today at 573-348-5073.

Summerset Boat Lifts

1165 Jeffries Road Osage Beach, MO  65065

573-348-5073

Email:info@summersetboatlifts.com

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10 Must-Haves for a Day on the Water

Summer is well underway and people are traveling from across the country to visit beautiful Lake of the Ozarks! Whether you own a boat or plant to rent one, there's nothing better than hitting the water for a day of fun with family and friends. Use this checklist from Summerset Boat Lifts to ensure you have everything you need for a successful day out on the water!

Day of Boating Checklist 

1. Boat Registration, Fishing License, Etc. - Make sure your boat registration is current. It's important that you're following state laws while operating your watercraft. If you plan on doing any fishing, check that your fishing license is current and that the fishing regulations haven't changed for the water you will be fishing in.

2. Life Jackets - Not only for your own safety, but also to follow state law, you need to have enough life jackets on board for everyone. According to Missouri state law, children under the age of seven are required to wear a life jacket at all times while on board a watercraft, unless they're down in the cabin.

3. Cell Phone or Marine Radio - Ensure you're never left stranded by having a working cell phone (and charger) or a marine radio on board. Be sure you know how to reach water patrol, the police or the Coast Guard if needed. It also might be a good idea to have a tow boat's number on hand.  It's also a good idea to let someone on land know where you're going and what time you're expected to be back.

4. First Aid Kit - A well-stocked first aid kit can help make sure you can address incidents, everything from small nicks and cuts to sea sickness. You can either buy a kit or make your own that includes gauze, band-aids, scissors, latex gloves, cotton balls, antiseptic lotion, pain relievers and tweezers. In the event someone gets motion sickness, it's also a good idea to include some motion sickness pills or crystallized ginger to each the stomach issues.

5. Sunscreen & Insect Repellent - Hours in the sun with no protection can lead to a bad sunburn. Aside from the few that just tan really well, most people need to have some sunscreen to re-apply throughout the day. Don't forget your lips can burn as well, so bring some lip balm with SPF. With time spent outdoors, comes insects that bite! Minimize the itching by bringing along some bug spray too.

6. Food, Drinks and a Cooler - One of the most important things about being out on the water is staying hydrated. Make sure you bring enough bottled water for everyone on board. Depending on how long you're planning on being out on the Lake, you should also bring lunch or at least some snacks. Keep drinks and perishable foods cold in an air tight cooler. Non-perishable snacks like jerky, fruit snacks, granola bars and nuts will be fine in plastic bags.

7. Sunglasses and a Hat - A good pair of sunglasses can cut the sun's glare off the water. Not only will they make for safe navigation, they also make fishing easier. A nice hat can also help keep the sun out of your face and keep your head from burning.

8. Jacket and Extra Change of Clothes - The weather can change at a moment's notice. When the sun goes down and you're out on the water, it can get a little chilly. Be sure to bring a jacket, maybe even a blanket to keep warm until you arrive home. In addition, if you get caught in the rain and end up soaked, you don't want to stay in wet clothes until you get home. Bring extra clothes and store them in a waterproof bag so you can change when the rain lets up.

9. Towels - Be sure to pack plenty of towels and store them in a waterproof bag as well. They can come in handy to either dry yourself off or your gear.

10. Hand Sanitizer and Baby Wipes - It's nice to be able to clean up, especially if you have messy children. With no bathroom on the boat, it's important to have alternatives like hand sanitizer and baby wipes to clean up with before and after eating. If you're fishing, it's a good idea to clean up after handling bait or the fish that you catch.

If you're having issues with your Lake of the Ozarks boat lift, give Summerset Boat Lifts a call. We service a variety of different brands of lifts, and are ready to help! Plus, if you're in the market for a brand new lift, we offer both pre-owned and brand new Galva-Hoist boat lifts at the Lake of the Ozarks! Give us a call at 573-348-5073 today!

Summerset Boat Lifts

1165 Jeffries Road Osage Beach, MO  65065

573-348-5073

Email:info@summersetboatlifts.com

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4th of July Fireworks on the Water

The holiday weekend is finally here and that means visitors will be flooding into the Lake area for a fun-filled weekend. Nothing says 4th of July like getting out on the water and spending the day in the sun! While you're out on the water this weekend, check out some of these awesome firework shows you can view right from your boat or possibly even your home deck or boat dock.

Fireworks on the Water 

38 MM - Bear Bottom Resort 
Saturday, July 2 & Monday, July 4
9:45 pm both nights

5 MM - Fireworks Display
Saturday, July 2
9:30 pm

34.5 MM - Captain Ron's Bar & Grill 
Sunday, July 3
8:30 pm to 9:30 pm

2 MM - Point Randall Resort 
Sunday, July 3 
9:15 pm to 10:00 pm 

13 MM - The Lodge of Four Seasons
Monday, July 4
Display begins at Dusk

26 MM - Tan-Tar-A Resort 
Monday, July 4
8:30 pm to 9:30 pm

Why Fireworks on the 4th of July?

 For as long as we can remember, Americans have celebrated America's birthday with a grand fireworks show. Why do we commemorate Independence Day by setting off a bunch of mini explosions? The history of fireworks in America is as old as the country itself. The reason we shoot off fireworks on the 4th of July is because John Adams wanted us too! Even before the Declaration of Independence was signed, he envisioned fireworks as part of the celebration. A letter he wrote stated that the occasion should be solemnized, "with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.”

With the massive amount of boats that will be on the water this weekend, there's a possibility your dock and lift could be damaged, especially if you live right on the main channel. Keep Summerset Boat Lifts in mind for all your Lake of the Ozarks boat lift repair needs! Have a fun and safe 4th of July weekend!

Summerset Boat Lifts

1165 Jeffries Road Osage Beach, MO  65065

573-348-5073

Email:info@summersetboatlifts.com

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