7.22.2010 -- Minnetonka Boathouse Project

One of Stonehearth’s favorite and most memorable remodeling projects took place over three months in the summer of 2006. Because the Minnetonka boathouse was one of the oldest structures on the lake it was imperative that its historical value was preserved, making the project a challenge right off the bat. In addition to that, it was also very important to the owner of the house that none of the landscaping surrounding the lot was disturbed, so the Stonehearth team took extra precautions to respect the client’s wishes. 

The boathouse sat right on the edge of the water and was exposed to high winds that damaged the piers and caused the house to shift off of the foundation. After lifting the house about four inches off the foundation our team installed a series of helical anchors underneath the piers (some of which went as deep as 100 feet into the ground because of soft soil) and through the back wall of the foundation to properly support the structure. We then straightened the house itself, replaced all damaged floor joists, doors, and siding, and constructed a new deck on top of the piers, with stairs leading down to the dock. 

Because the boathouse was so close to the water, the majority of the work had to be done off of barges sitting on the lake. All of the equipment for the project also had to be brought across the lake on barges, this included bobcats, backhoes, concrete trucks, cranes, and more! 

Though it was certainly a challenge, the unique nature of this project made it a lot of fun overall, and the owner was completely satisfied with the work that was done.