If you own lakefront property at Lake of the Ozarks, you know how crucial a strong seawall is to protect your shoreline. With its large surface area, high boat traffic, and fluctuating water levels, Lake of the Ozarks can put intense pressure on seawalls, making them vulnerable to erosion and deterioration. But did you know that fall and winter are ideal times to assess, repair, or even replace your seawall? Here’s why colder months are perfect for seawall maintenance and why RT Dock and Marine should be your first call for the job.
1. Seasonally Lower Lake Levels Offer Ideal Access
In the fall and winter, Lake of the Ozarks experiences lower lake levels due to annual water level adjustments by the Bagnell Dam. This drawdown, typically beginning in October and lasting until spring, exposes more of the seawall and shoreline, allowing for thorough inspection and easy access to areas that are normally underwater. For RT Dock and Marine, this means more effective repairs and a clear view of the entire seawall structure, from the footings to the cap.
Working during the drawdown period can save you time and money, as repairs and replacements are faster to complete with fewer obstructions. It’s the most efficient way to ensure a robust seawall, and the reduced water level means that repairs can be conducted with minimal disruption.
2. Less Demand During the Off-Season for Faster Service
While summer is busy with lake activities, the fall and winter are quieter for shoreline construction services. This off-season means more flexibility in scheduling, which can lead to faster completion times. With reduced demand, RT Dock and Marine can dedicate more resources and attention to your project, ensuring it’s completed thoroughly and on schedule.
By planning ahead and taking advantage of the off-season, you’ll avoid the summer rush and have your property in top shape by spring. Our team is prepared to work around your needs and help you avoid any last-minute delays.
3. Colder Weather Means Stronger Curing for New Materials
The cooler months provide optimal temperatures for the curing of concrete and other seawall materials. Cold weather slows the curing process, which can lead to stronger, longer-lasting results compared to repairs done in hotter conditions. Concrete and construction materials used in seawalls benefit from gradual curing, making fall and winter perfect for setting a durable seawall that can better withstand the pressures of erosion and water movement.
4. Winter Storms and Water Levels Increase Shoreline Vulnerability
Winter storms, heavy rain, and fluctuating water levels can be harsh on seawalls, particularly if they’re already weakened. A seawall that’s left unchecked through winter may experience additional erosion, cracks, or soil loss due to these seasonal changes. Repairing or replacing it during the fall and winter can save you from dealing with more costly damage and ensure your shoreline is secure, preventing soil and land loss as the water level rises again in the spring.
5. Get Ahead for the Summer Season
Imagine getting your lake property ready for a busy summer season, only to find out your seawall needs urgent repairs. By handling any necessary repairs or replacements during fall or winter, you can be confident that your seawall will be ready and fully functional for the warm-weather months. No interruptions, no unexpected repairs—just a secure, well-maintained shoreline for you to enjoy all summer long.
Why RT Dock and Marine
At RT Dock and Marine, we have years of experience working on the Lake of the Ozarks shoreline. We understand the challenges that property owners face and the importance of reliable, high-quality seawall construction. Our expertise, combined with our commitment to craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, makes us the top choice for seawall repairs and replacements in the area.
RT Docks has partnered with the Alchemy-Spetec seawall repair network to protect residential and commercial properties from loss and damage along the shoreline. We use polyurethane foams that react with moisture in the soil and expand to fill voids while they permeate the soil to form a solid, strong, watertight mass to repair seawalls. These polyurethane foams seal cracks and defects, as well as fill voids and stabilize soil. Most of our repairs can be completed in less than a day.
Protect Your Shoreline with RT Dock and Marine
Take advantage of the fall and winter seasons to secure your shoreline. Contact RT Dock and Marine today to schedule your free consultation and ensure your seawall is ready to protect your property year-round.
You can choose to add a screened room to your existing structures in several ways:
- Screen Wall System. By enclosing the area beneath your deck or adjacent to your home, you can create additional space for storage, entertaining or relaxation.
- Porch Screen System. Installing screened walls around your current porch expands your outdoor living area.
- Custom Built Screen Rooms. These enclosures are custom-made extensions to your home, tailor-fit to your preferences and design.
