Gibson Marine Construction

How to Make the Most of Your Waterfront Lifestyle

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Whether you live right on the water, or your property is close by, there is a unique lifestyle afforded to those who choose to live in waterfront communities. Activities like kayaking, boating, swimming, fishing, jet skiing, and bird watching are all available right there in your very own backyard. But just as there are so many amazing benefits to living on the water, there are also some additional responsibilities too. Here are some tips for making the most of your waterfront lifestyle.

Be Prepared for Severe Weather

Coastal living means living with big storms. Whether it’s the daily summer thunderstorms or the threat of an impending hurricane, not being prepared for these types of events is a rookie move. Make sure you educate yourself (and your family) on how to prepare your waterfront property for a big storm. And don’t be afraid to practice your storm preparedness procedures! Storms can sometimes ‘come out of nowhere’ leaving property owners just a few hours (or sometimes less) to lock everything down and prepare for the onslaught of severe weather!

Stay Safe! Be Aware of the Unique Safety Hazards of Living on the Water

While it might seem like an obvious statement, there are a lot of safety hazards that homeowners can overlook, especially in regard to living on the water. To learn about some of the most common issues we often encounter when inspecting boat lifts, docks and decks, and seawalls for our clients, take a look at this post about waterfront safety. And if you have any concerns or think your structures might need some maintenance, or to be replaced, reach out to our team of experts at Gibson Marine.

Transform Your Backyard into the Water’s Edge Retreat of Your Dreams

Once you’ve done the (very important) work of preparing your family and property with a plan for severe weather and have ensured that your outdoor structures are all safe to use, it’s time to start enjoying the benefits of living on the waterfront! One of the best ways to do this is to customize your outdoor space.

Add Lighting to Your Outdoor Space

One way to add a personal touch is by incorporating some accessories into your outdoor space. Some of our most common requests are to add an assortment of lighting features. Simply adding pathway or post lights can make a dock more usable after dark. While the lighting requests we get most often from avid fishermen are for underwater lighting. Adding underwater lighting on your dock or deck can transform your space into a beautiful oasis and attract many different kinds of fish!

Enhance the Usability of Your Waterfront Space

Whether you want your backyard to feel like an extension of your living room, or you’re looking for prime sunbathing real estate, there are endless possibilities when it comes accessorizing your waterfront space. Simple add-ons such as built in benches can do double duty offering seating options and potential storage space. While higher-end options such as boat lifts or dock plumbing for outdoor showers or fish cleaning stations can offer both function and convenience.

How Will You Make the Most Out of Your Waterfront Property?

If you are looking for a little inspiration, one of our favorite resources is Pinterest, believe it or not. But, if you need some inspiration that goes beyond the computer screen, give one of our professionals a call to come out and give you personalized suggestions for how to transform your outdoor space.

How to Make the Most of Your Waterfront Lifestyle

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Whether you live right on the water, or your property is close by, there is a unique lifestyle afforded to those who choose to live in waterfront communities. Activities like kayaking, boating, swimming, fishing, water tubing, jet skiing and even sightseeing are all available in your very own backyard. But, even being steps away from paradise can have its drawbacks if you don’t know the tricks of the trade! Here are some of our favorite suggestions for making the most of your waterfront lifestyle.

  1. Be Prepared! Coastal living means living with big storms. Whether it’s the daily summer thunderstorms or the threat of an impending hurricane, not being prepared for these types of events is a rookie move. Make sure you educate yourself (and your family) on how to prepare your outdoor spaces for a big storm, and don’t be afraid to practice your storm procedures! Storms can sometimes “come out of nowhere” leaving property owners just a few hours (or less) to lock everything down and protect it from the impending barrage of rain, wind and lightning!
  2. Stay Safe! While it might seem like an obvious statement, there are a lot of safety hazards that homeowners can overlook. We recently posted about some of the most common issues we come across when inspecting boat lifts, docks and decks, and seawalls for our clients. Take a look at this post about waterfront safety, and don’t hesitate to contact us if you think your structures might need some maintenance, or to be replaced.
  3. Accessorize! Once you’ve done the (very important) work of preparing your family with a set plan in the event of a storm, and have ensured that your outdoor structures are all up to code and in tip-top shape, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor! One of our favorite ways to do this is by adding some accessories to your outdoor space. One of the requests we get most often is for underwater lighting (especially from our avid fishermen). Adding underwater lighting on your dock or deck can transform your space into a beautiful oasis and attract many different kinds of fish!
  4. Decorate! Whether you want your backyard to feel like an extension of your living room, or you’re looking for prime sunbathing real estate, there are endless possibilities when it comes to outdoor décor. Our favorite resource for inspiration is Pinterest, believe it or not. But, if you need some inspiration that goes beyond the computer screen, give one of our professionals a call to come out and give you personalized suggestions for how to transform your outdoor space.
  5. Enjoy! We may have our own ideas for how best to enjoy a waterfront oasis, but we’d like to hear from you! What are some of your favorite waterfront lifestyle perks? How have you personalized your space, and what do you do to enjoy it? Next time you’re out there, snap a picture and share it with us in the comments below.

Four Signs Your Boat Dock Needs a Little TLC

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Owning a boat is a wonderful thing. You get to enjoy the freedom and beauty of the open sea, but it comes with costs back at home. Every time you bring your boat back home after cruising up and down the Gulf Coast or along Florida’s inland waterways, you are tying it up to your dock. With thousands invested in your boat, don’t you want to know you are tying it up to a dock worthy of securing your boat? Your boat dock, like everything else that comes in contact with Florida’s waters, is going to require maintenance and upkeep from time to time. Keep an eye out for these four signs your dock might need a facelift.

 

Warped or Cracked Supports

Depending upon the type of materials used in the construction of your boat dock, you may need to watch out for warped or cracked supports. Currents and waves can cause the structure to warp or bend over time due to sustained pressure, and sometimes that constant pressure can even lead to a crack or break in the supports. Other factors such as an accidental collision between your boat and dock can lead to warping and cracking.

The type of support damaged makes a difference too. Smaller supports can often be replaced individually or repaired without significant cost. A load-bearing support should be addressed right away so you don’t risk injury should the dock collapse.

 

Wood Rot

Although many homeowners transition to synthetic materials in their docking, there are still those with wooden docks. The most common source of rot is fungus from the water that seeps in and causes dry rot, a condition in which the wood decays and crumbles. If it is confined to one area of your dock, it is possible to replace the individual boards with new treated lumber. If the wood rot is out of control, it is best to consult the marine construction specialists at Gibson Marine to determine the cost of replacement and learn about the benefits of different docking materials.

 

Foundation Damage Under the Waterline

Most residents along Florida’s Gulf Coast have docks that are permanently installed on pillars and underwater foundational supports. These docks offer convenience to you as a homeowner because you have a long-term, stable foundation that allows you to focus on the surface of your dock. However, you still need to be wary of any cracks in your foundational supports. They should be addressed immediately.

 

Rusted Platforms and Supports

If your boat dock has metal components in the platform or supports, the corrosive saltwater along the coast is going to eat away at the metal over time. Small rust spots can often be repaired or replaced with ease, but if rust is prevalent, it’s time to consider replacing your entire structure in the interest of safety.

Your boat dock might seem like a utilitarian place to load and unload your friends and family from the boat, and tie your boat up when it’s not in use, but it’s an important structure. Not only does it keep your boat on your property, it holds your valuable cargo (family and friends) when they are preparing for a boat ride. Ensure you keep a structurally-sound dock by watching out for these dangerous signs of decay and damage.

 

If you are concerned about the condition of your dock, feel free to contact us for a professional assessment and quote for any repairs that may be needed!

5 Things to Consider When Purchasing a Boat Lift

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Whether you live right on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico in Florida, or along one of the many inland waterways, it is a good idea to purchase a boat lift for your property. A good boat lift protects your boat against the jostling of the waves and the beating it could take when storm surges roll in or the tide ebbs and flows. Selecting the right boat lift requires consideration. Before just picking the most affordable model, think about the following factors.

 

Manual or Electric?

It might seem foolish to purchase a manual boat lift when there are so many models available with a powered winch, but there is more to consider than just power vs. manual effort. While a manual boat lift requires physical labor on your behalf to crank the wheel and raise your boat, electric boat lifts use a small motor to operate a winch and lift your boat out of the water. However, the decision isn’t as simple as physical labor compared to pushing a button.

In order to use an electric boat lift, you’ll need to have convenient access to a power source. Running electrical lines and using a motor requires extra maintenance after your boat lift is installed.

 

Length and Width

As you might expect, the length and width of your boat impact the type of boat lift you consider installing on your coastal property. The beam of your lift needs to support your boat, while its strength and weight capacity should also be able to accommodate your boat. Take care to think about future upgrades you may make, and ensure that the boat lift you install now can handle your current boat as well as larger vessels you may buy in the future.

 

Sling Style

If your home is located along a shallow stretch of shoreline, you may want to consider purchasing a sling-style lift rather than a rigid, cradle design. The straps in a sling model lie flat on the bottom, making it easy for you to load your boat into the lift. As long as you can float your boat in close to the lift, you’ll be able to raise it out of the water with your sling lift.

 

Materials

The most popular materials used in the construction of boat lifts are stainless steel and galvanized steel. For residents of Florida’s Gulf Coast, stainless steel is the recommended material in boat lifts because of the potential for corrosion in saltwater. You need to keep in mind the impact of UV rays, corrosion, and cracking when selecting the material used in the construction of your boat lift.

 

Maintenance

Every aspect of boat ownership comes down to proper maintenance. From your vessel itself to your dock and boat lift, owning a boat means keeping an eye on the maintenance needs of your watercraft. Check with your installer to learn about the care required for the cradle, winch, cables, and motor (if electric) to ensure that your boat lift operates effectively for years to come.

 

If you’re considering purchasing a new boat lift for your property, and have questions about which boat lift is right for you, contact us today!

Which Type of Boat Lift is Right for you?

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If you are a boat owner lucky enough to have your own waterfront property at which to store the boat, you should have a boat lift to protect your precious seafaring watercraft from Mother Nature! When your boat is not in use, a boat lift help can keep it out of the water away from barnacles, storms or any other potential, damage-causing hazards. It can also help you move your boat from one location to another, like from an inlet to a boat storage facility before a hurricane hits. Many different types of boat lifts are manufactured every day and we install lots of different styles to best suit your needs.

The types of boat lifts we install, include:

  • Aluminum Boat Lifts
  • Galvanized Boat Lifts
  • Davits
  • PWC Lifts
  • Swinger Style Lifts

With so many options, one can’t help but beg the question, “what kind of boat lift is right for me?” Well we are here to help you answer that question! Boat lifts are like shoes, one size does not fit all. Some boat lifts are great for large boats on the open sea, while other boat lifts would be better suited for a small boat in a calm freshwater lake. Below are a few things to consider when making the decision about which type of boat lift you need.

 

Freshwater or Saltwater?

Staying knowledgeable about ways you can prevent the wear and tear of your boat lift can be financially beneficial in the future. Damage to a boat lift can be very expensive, and sometimes irreversible. One way you can prevent damage to your boat lift is to think about what kind of water in which your boat lift will be working. Is it fresh or salt water?

Salt water can be corrosive which is why, if you are boating out at sea, a stainless steel boat lift should be your go-to answer. Stainless steel contains a high proportion of chromium and nickel, are very resistant to corrosion and other chemical reactions, and are easy to clean, polish, and sterilize. For this reason, stainless steel has a great relationship with the salty sea and is the best choice for any sea faring vessel.

But what about if you like to go boating out on a beautiful freshwater lake? The water in a freshwater lake is less harsh and gentler on boat lifts, which is why a galvanized boatlift would be a great choice for those kinds of environmental conditions.

 

Small Boat or Large Boat?

Some boat lifts can’t lift boats of certain specifications. For example, you wouldn’t make a boat lift designed for small lake boats lift a large sea yacht would you? Just like you wouldn’t make a boat lift designed for only deep water lift a boat that is in shallow water. Again, it is like a shoe, not one size fits all, so be sure to take the size and usage of your boat into consideration when purchasing a boat lift.

 

More Questions?

Still not sure which boat lift to get? We can give our expert advice on what kind boat lift would best fit your needs, and then we can install it for you, from beginning to end! We love our lakes and oceans and we would be more than happy to assist in your next project! Feel free to contact us by calling 727-942-3111 or here.

Snacks and Drinks Perfect for the Boat

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Planning your next boating excursion with your friends and family? Don’t forget about the menu! Surely you’ll need some yummy snacks and cool drinks for your next trip. Below, we have compiled some of our favorite food and drink recipes, perfect for those long summer days spent on the water! Enjoy!

Snacks

Rosemary Citrus Shrimp Taco | Serves 8

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined and tails removed
  • 4 ounces Rosemary Citrus & Pepper Sauce
  • 8 flour tortillas
  • 8-1/2 ounces fresh coleslaw mix
  • 1 red pepper, cut into strips
  • 1 yellow pepper, cut into strips
  • 1 avocado, sliced

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for two minutes until pink.
  2. Flip shrimp and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until shrimp is pink and flesh is opaque.
  3. Stir in 1 cup of Rosemary Citrus & Pepper Sauce and warm through. Remove from heat.
  4. Assemble tacos by topping a tortilla with coleslaw, pepper strips, avocado slices and shrimp.
  5. Top with additional Rosemary Citrus & Pepper Sauce, if desired.

 

Cheesy Chicken Bruschetta Bread Boats | Serves 4

Ingredients

  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 large sub buns
  • 3 Tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 large chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch cubes
  • 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • 4 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bunch fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • Salt and Pepper

Instructions

  1. Place the balsamic vinegar and sugar in a small sauce pan. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium low and let the mixture simmer while you continue on with the recipe. Once the vinegar is thickened and syrupy, remove from heat.
  2. Meanwhile, heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken breast with salt and pepper then place them in the skillet. Cook for a few minutes on each side until the pieces are cooked through.
  3. Preheat the broiler to low. Split the sub buns in half and brush them lightly with about 1 Tablespoon of olive oil. Place them oil side up on a baking sheet and place them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes or until golden. Remove and set aside.
  4. Spread the chicken evenly over the toasted bread. Top with slices of mozzarella cheese. Place the cheesy bread under the broiler for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. While the cheese is melting, combine the tomatoes and garlic and season them with salt and pepper. Once the cheese is melted, spread the tomatoes out evenly over the bread slices. If desired, place them back under the broiler for a final time to warm up the tomatoes.
  6. Top bread slices with chopped basil and a drizzle of the reduced balsamic vinegar. Serve immediately.

 

Adult Beverage

Pineapple Coolers

Ingredients

  • 4 cups pineapple chunks, chilled
  • 1 1/2 cups ice
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk
  • 1/3 cup rum

Instructions

  1. Blend all ingredients together until smooth.
  2. Garnish with a pineapple round, lime wedge, and sprig of mint!
  3. For a sweeter drink, add in simple syrup!

 

Kid-friendly

Orange Creamsicle cups

Ingredients

  • 2 cups light whipped topping
  • ⅛ teaspoon almond extract
  • 2 cups Yoplait light orange cream yogurt

Instructions

  1. Spoon half of the yogurt into the bottom of two small, clear glass or plastic cups.
  2. Stir the almond extract into the whipped topping. If you don’t like almond extract, feel free to omit this step.
  3. Spoon half of the whipped topping over your yogurt layer.
  4. Add a second layer of yogurt, then whipped topping.
  5. Chilled until ready to eat. Serve with a spoon and drink umbrella. Enjoy!

We hope you enjoy your summer days on the boat this season, stay safe and have fun!

Spend Your 4th of July Weekend on The Water!

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Are you a boater in the Tampa Bay Area looking for a fun way to spend your 4th of July weekend? How about this year, instead of going to another house, block party or community center, go to one of the many pristine beaches here in Florida! Or better yet, sale on your boat to view the many fireworks displays that Tampa Bay has to offer. Where should you go? What should you do? There are many great options to choose from, here are just a few.

 

  1. Craig Park, a great natural destination with growing plants and wildlife, is located on 398 S. Spring Blvd. in Tarpon Springs, and is a nice way to spend your July 4th weekend with friends and family. Craig Park has boat ramps, a playground, tennis court, picnic areas, and a wonderful recreation center. Enjoy a picnic from 10am – 2pm and then watch the fireworks from your boat at the lovely Sunset beach.

 

  1. Tampa Bay’s Premier Dining Yachts offers a great family-friendly firework cruise! Spend time with the family eating and enjoying our nation’s annual celebration of our independence. They offer a premium bar, a buffet of American foods, and a talented DJ. You can depart from Tampa or from Clearwater. Follow the link for more information on times, pricing and dress code information.

 

  1. Victory Ship, an SS American Victory World War II merchant steamship celebrates the 4th of July with a Family Fun Fest and Fireworks. How about you hop on aboard and join the fun? Follow the link for more information on pricing and times.

 

  1. Downtown St. Petersburg will have fireworks go off at Spa Beach that can be viewed from the city’s waterfront parks and The Pier. Sail in on your boat and enjoy the view from the water. Sounds like a beautiful way to spend an evening watching fireworks!

 

  1. Madeira Beach 4th of July Festival features hula-hoop contests, food, drinks, music, and a kid’s play area. Come for the fireworks and stay for the family fun!

 

  1. St. Petersburg Beach has fireworks brought to the community by The Tampa Bay Beaches’ Chamber of Commerce. Enjoy the ocean breeze and the sand beneath your toes as you gaze up at the stars to see loud and proud fireworks!

 

  1. Sea Screamer thrill ride! Want to turn your typical calm 4th of July weekend up a few notches? View Clearwater’s fireworks on the Sea Screamer speedboat! This is a kid favorite and you’re even guaranteed a dolphin sighting!

 

Other locations that you can view fireworks: Channelside Fireworks will be launched from Garrison Channel and can be seen from Channelside, Bay Plaza, The Florida Aquarium, the American Victory Ship, Yacht Starship, Cotanchobee Park, the Marriott Waterside, the Forum and Harbour Island.

There are plenty of spots around the bay area for your family to enjoy the fireworks and create lasting memories this 4th of July. Even if you don’t have a boat, there’s plenty of fun to be had!

Where’s your favorite spot to watch fireworks with your family? Do you usually take the boat out? Let us know your 4th of July traditions in the comments below!

 

 

Keep Your Boating Season Safe and Fun

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As boating season approaches it’s a good idea to review basic boating safety rules no matter how experienced you may be. We have included some boating tips, below, to ensure all your boating trips are as safe as they are fun!

 

Be aware of weather: You can check weather information on TV, radio or Internet so always make sure you check before leaving the dock. While on the water your VHF radio is your main source for weather reports. Weather can be unpredictable and change rapidly so make sure you are always keeping an eye out for warning signs. Two main indications of a high-storm probability are 1.) a lowering ceiling, this means the cloud formations are getting lower and cumulus (puffy) clouds are forming vertically, 2.) a sudden drop in temperature, a change in wind, or a drop in pressure.

 

Life Jackets: A life jacket or PFD (personal floatation device) is an easy safety device to use and it could save your life. There are many different types of flotation devices so choose one that suits your boating activities and conditions. Every boat must have a lifejacket that is Coast Guard approved for every person on board, and all lifejackets must be properly sized for each person aboard. Children under 13 and people who are doing water sports (water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing) must be wearing a life jacket. All life jackets must be readily available and not out of reach.  There are many different types of floatation devices so buy one that suits you and keep it close.

 

Float Plans: Creating a float plan every time you take a trip on your boat can increase the chances of the Coast Guard being able to help you if something does go wrong. A float plan can be left with a relative, friend or at your local marina. A float plan should typically include your name, address, phone number of all passengers, boat type and registration information, your itinerary for the day or the length of your trip, and your communication equipment. Remember to call and report your location regularly this will help the Coast Guard pin point your location.

 

Designate a Sober Skipper: Make sure there is at least one person on board, at all times, who is familiar with your boat handling, operations, and safety. This way if the primary skipper is injured or incapable of performing these duties, someone else is there to safely return everyone on board back to shore. Almost half of all boating accidents involve alcohol, so keep the alcohol consumption ashore.  It is illegal to operate a boat while intoxicated so ensure someone on board is sober and capable of operating the boat at all times. Being out in the sun and with all the stressors of boating you need all of your attention to focus on safety. Alcohol impairs your ability to do this so save your alcohol for when you arrive safely back at the dock.

 

In addition to all of these safety tips taking a boating safety course will ensure you are familiar with all safety rules. Many websites and marinas offer boating safety courses online and in person. Educating yourself is the best way to keep your boating trips as fun and safe as they can be!

 

 

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Gibson Marine Construction © 2021
2131 Range Rd.
Clearwater, FL 33765
727-942-3111 | gibson-marine.com Florida Certified General Contractor: CGC1514396