Restoration

“How much is my old wooden canoe worth?” (Notes from the WCHA that will help you answer the question.)

Each canoe presents its own set of challenges.  What looks like a basket case to you might be a fairly simple repair and yet I’ve already had “needs a little work” eat up way more time and materials than expected.  I can’t evaluate your canoe until I can inspect it personally and we’ve had a chance to discuss your expectations.  Every effort will be  made to accurately determine the scope of work required but I reserve the right to make final changes to the estimate once the boat is in the shop and stripped.  Often there is additional damage in need of repair that isn’t apparent until the old canvas comes off.  Any changes required will be discussed prior to proceeding with the work.

There are two basic directions you can take with your classic canoe: repair or restore. Repairing a canoe is generally a minimalist approach to getting the boat back on the water but it can involve extensive work if the boat is in bad shape. Restoration involves returning the canoe to its original condition – parts that might otherwise be repaired get replaced. The beauty of wood canvas construction is that every component used to build the boat can be repaired or replaced as needed.

You will receive a written estimate (subject to adjustment as outlined above) before work starts on your boat and a deposit of $300 is due at the same time.  The balance will be due upon completion.

If you pay for restoration, you’ll need to know that the cost of restoration generally exceeds the market value, but you will have the coolest canoe on the lake…a real head turner! So don’t look at it as an investment. There has to be a special place in your heart and mind for a wood canvas canoe in order to open the purse strings for restoration.

Dave Osborn, Little Lakes Guide Service and Canoe Restoration