Jul 28, 2020
BARGE UPDATES
Barge updates
The Barge and the Pusher Boat, that moves it around, is unique in several ways. It goes where other local barges can’t go. It’s versatile enough to fit into tight spaces where a traditional barge can’t. Yet, it’s large enough to handle an excavator plus tons of rock and equipment.
In most cases, the Barge floats very close to shore, where it can unload the excavator and materials. For protection during a storm, the jack-up legs raise the entire unit well above the waves.
Each of the (4) cables which raise the Barge are almost the size of a human fist.
The Barge and pusher boat have been in continuous operation since they were launched. The crew has been installing docks, rip-rap, and hauling materials to job sites.
MORE BARGE UPGRADES
Recently, the Barge moved into a sheltered area south of Point Sable at the old Eagles Nest marina for additional updates. You may have seen it there. Upon completion, it immediately got underway to the next job. It’s equipment and the way we use them, constantly evolves.
To date, we have installed more than 1,500 tons (over 3,000,000 lbs) of rip-rap.
WHY IS THE BARGE USED SO MUCH?
The use of the Barge means less damage to landscaping when we do rip-rap work. Many property owners prefer the barge for less obstruction to their property, or when access to the shoreline is not available. Additionally, there is no need to empty boulders from the dump trucks on their property or the road for later dispersal. We’ll find the nearest, suitable location to load the materials and equipment to serve every job.
Once the rip-rap project ends, the excavator and skid steer are loaded back up to immediately move to the next project. By using the Barge, there is no need for the excavator or track-mounted skid steer to travel across a lawn during the project. All work is completed from the shoreline.
Pusher boat
WHAT ABOUT THE PUSHER BOAT?
The pusher boat was made to not only move the barge but it will carry a skid steer and an additional 3 tons of rock at the same time.
FURTHER UPDATES
With one excavator tied up working with the Barge at all times, PWS has acquired two additional excavators and track-mounted skid steers since the Barge came into service.
For more information or to get on the schedule, contact Dave @ (920) 905-2588 TODAY – or – fill out this simple quote request FORM.
WHERE IS PIER & WATERFRONT SOLUTIONS?
Located at 7325 St. Hwy 57, it’s 3 miles south of Sturgeon Bay, and 1 mile past the intersection of Cty MM (heading north). Look on the right side at the intersection of Idlewild Road and Hwy 57.
ARE WE OPEN?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions has remained “open.” We have implemented measures to ensure the safety of our employees and visitors. At the same time, we are working to maintain the trusted service you expect.
We are conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone. Site visits will continue as usual. When in-person contacts are necessary, we follow “social distancing” guidelines as closely as possible.
HOW TO IDENTIFY THE ITEM YOU ARE INTERESTED IN
Our display yard is always open for you to examine at your leisure. All displays that are available for purchases have a numbered, red tag on them. If you want more information or pricing, please reference that number.
We provide estimates and invoices by email to make the process faster. With these measures, we hope everyone will stay safe, and we will be back to normal operations soon.
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP OUR BARGE CREWS?
Please conduct as much business as possible via emails, messaging, and emails. When you see our crews installing rip-rap, be sure to practice “social distancing.”
Call, message, or email us with any questions.
Thank you for allowing us to work with you safely.
Let’s all stay safe!
Jul 21, 2020
Dockside Basketball Hoop
A basketball hoop is the latest addition to the ShoreMaster and Pier & Waterfront Solutions line of accessories. Take the game off the hot court and put it in the water with a dockside Basketball Hoop. Imagine the summer fun (and exercise) your family will enjoy. Just add the basketball and start the fun.
This summer has seen high humidity and temperatures. It isn’t easy to get the exercise the kids and adults, need. With many people isolating themselves during the pandemic, this is an excellent way to stay cool and get your workout at the same time.
ShoreMaster Dockside Basketball Hoop
Basketball Hoop
The backboard measures 44″ x 30″ for easy bank shots. Like most ShoreMaster dock accessories, the dockside Basketball hoop utilizes the Infinity Track accessory system. You can easily attach and reattach it anywhere along the perimeter of the dock system. For more information on the Infinity track system, see this article.
The basketball hoop includes a 5′ post, which mounts easily to the side of the dock. (Non-ShoreMaster docks may need a simple adaptor plate.)
The basketball hoop features an 18″ diameter rim. With a waterproof nylon net, the basketball hoop is sure to provide seasons of fun.
Your family will have one more attraction this summer to keep them occupied. There is no reason to get bored.
Visit Pier & Waterfront Solutions on Facebook also.
Remember, Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) specializes in Waterfront Solutions for docks and lifts.
For more information, contact Jerry @ (920) 493-4404 TODAY– or – fill out this simple quote request form.
Where is Pier & Waterfront Solutions?
Located at 7325 St. Hwy 57, it’s 3 miles south of Sturgeon Bay, and 1 mile past the intersection of Cty MM (heading north). Look on the right side, one mile north, at the intersection of Idlewild Road and Hwy 57.
ARE WE OPEN?
During this time of uncertainty, Pier & Waterfront Solutions has stayed “open.” We have implemented measures to ensure the safety of our employees and visitors. At the same time, we are working to maintain the trusted service you expect.
We are conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone. Site visits will continue as usual. When in-person contacts are necessary, we will follow “social distancing” guidelines.
Our display yard is always open for you to examine at your leisure. All displays have a numbered, red tag on them. If you want more information or pricing, please reference that number.
We provide estimates and invoices by email to make the process paperless and faster. With these measures, we hope everyone will stay safe, and we will be back to normal operations soon.
What can YOU do to help us?
Please conduct as much business as possible via emails, messaging, and emails. When you see our crews installing equipment, please practice “social distancing.”
Please call, message, or email us with any questions.
Thank you for allowing us to work with you.
Let’s all stay safe!
Jul 16, 2020
Jerry,
Customer service is an art. You have mastered the art. Thank you for your service!
Dale R.
Door County
Jul 14, 2020
Dock Steps with Handrails
Dock Steps from Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) solve many problems for property owners. All-aluminum steps are available in (4) and (6) step configurations. These will never rust, rot, or require maintenance.
Is your ramp or ladder too steep or uncomfortable for your family to use? Is a ladder too hard to climb at the end of your dock? It’s time to look at aluminum steps. A set of dock steps can be an excellent alternative to access your dock.
Dock steps
Use them:
- Anywhere along the edge of your dock;
- Use them in place of a ramp if it is too steep to get comfortably to your dock;
- Use them to get from a seawall to the beach or directly to your dock; or
- To access the deck on your house. (no wood to rot or paint)
Is your embankment too high for even a (6) step unit?
These versatile steps join together to form longer units. You are not limited to 4 or 6 steps.
Starting with four steps, you can go to 6, 8, 10, or 12 steps. Use them to go down rough or slippery embankments to make a steady incline. Why risk a fall or injury?
Dock Steps on the embankment
The example above shows a combined (4) and (6) step unit, to form gradual access to the dock.
These versatile steps can be mounted on a seawall for access to the beach also. You don’t have to risk a fall on the slippery, wet embankment to get to your beach or dock. Steps are a natural solution to your landscaping issues.
Stairs
Need something even longer?
PWS custom-builds steps in whatever size and shape you need.
Maybe steps are not for you!
Gangway off a seawall
How about a 16′ up to 24′ gangway?
A gangway is another alternative to consider. Use an all-aluminum walkway from a seawall or embankment to the beach. Don’t let rip-rap or steep embankments hold you back. No need to risk twisting your ankle!
Gangways are available in 16′, 20′ and 24′ lengths.
Steps or gangways can also be used to gain access to a deck at your house or down a steep parking area to the house. Be sure to check out the gangway and step units in our front “pond” display.
Remember, Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) specializes in Waterfront Solutions for docks and lifts.
For more information and what works best for your area, contact Jerry @ (920) 493-4404 TODAY – or – fill out this simple quote request form.
Where is Pier & Waterfront Solutions?
Located at 7325 St. Hwy 57, it’s 3 miles south of Sturgeon Bay, and 1 mile past the intersection of Cty MM (heading north). Look on the right side, one mile north, at the next intersection (Idlewild Road and Hwy 57).
ARE WE OPEN?
During this time of uncertainty, Pier & Waterfront Solutions has stayed “open.” We have implemented measures to ensure the safety of our employees and visitors. At the same time, we are working to maintain the trusted service that you have come to expect.
We are conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone. Site visits will continue as usual. When in-person contacts are necessary, we will follow “social distancing” guidelines.
Our display yard is always open for you to examine at your leisure. All displays have a numbered, red tag on them. If you want more information or pricing, please reference that number.
We provide estimates and invoices by email to make the process paperless and faster. With these measures, we hope everyone will stay safe, and we will be back to normal operations soon.
What can YOU do to help us?
Please conduct as much business as possible via emails, messaging, and emails. When you see our crews installing equipment, please practice “social distancing.”
Please call, message, or email us with any questions.
Thank you for allowing us to work with you.
Let’s all stay safe!
Jul 7, 2020
Do I need a new dock?
Do I NEED A NEW DOCK?
Docks that are several years old will show some signs of wear. It might be the decking, or it could be the frames. Either way, your dock needs yearly inspections. It’s especially true this year.
Why? You guessed it – the storms. At least two things are happening. Record-setting water levels mean the waves can dislodge trees, logs, and other floating objects that have been sitting dormant on the shore for years. They get washed along the beaches and could hit your dock or boat lift during a storm.
Other docks or decking from your neighbors’ pier can be washed out too. That debris could also hit your dock. Don’t forget about the jet skis and boats that get dislodged in the significant storms.
How many times does it take to cause damage to a dock or boat lift?
Dock damage
Once could be enough. Imagine a boat or log floating under your dock or into your boat lift. The next wave pushes it up against the bottom of your dock or lift. With the wood hung up under the frames, they get twisted by the waves. Here’s the result.
Is the hardware still holding tight?
At one point, at least one manufacturer’s decking was glued and stapled. This decking did not have enough support under the decking, either. The constant flexing of the panels and the natural wood shrinkage meant the staples loosened, and the glue let go.
Consider replacing a wooden decked pier with a different material. If the frames are sound, you may be able to use the Flow-through decking options.
Flow-Through decking is considered the best decking available. For more information, click HERE.
What about the frames?
Is your dock frame bent?
How much wear and tear is the question. Proper maintenance of a dock system can help keep it looking beautiful for a long time. Some types of damage are easily repaired. Others need a lot of work.
But, if your dock is getting dangerous and unreliable, replacement might be the best option. Here are some more signs that you should think about investing in a brand new dock.
Widespread Rust
Do I need a new dock?
Certain types of metal used around water will rust. Painted, and even powder-coated metals will need regular upkeep to keep ahead of the rust.
Large areas of rust will spread. They eat away at the dock frames. If the metal rusts through, it can cause breakage in other areas too.
In cases like this, a completely new dock might be necessary.
Aluminum docks are made of rustproof metal and are a great option when considering upgrading or replacing a failing dock.
Have wood – will rot, Discolor, Split … You get the point!
Wooden docks can rot when water seeps into the wood. Moss, mildew, algae, and other growth can trap moisture in the wood decking, worsening the situation. However, it can be solved or prevented by keeping your dock clean and well maintained.
If a small area is experiencing rot, replace the individual components with new, treated lumber. But, when multiple areas are rotting, it’s time to replace your dock.
Consider replacing a wooden pier with different materials, including aluminum painted to look like wood, which is one of the premium ShoreMaster decking options.
Cracked or Warping Dock Supports
Has any boat come in “hot” (too fast) and hit the frames or vertical supports? Maybe a wave pushed your boat faster than expected or in the wrong direction. Accidents happen!
While the damage may appear only superficial, it’s essential to check all the welds in the immediate area.
Don’t let this type of damage go unattended. With the current rash of storms and high water, this type of damage can quickly become critical.
Minor cracks in small areas may require welding or the replacement of some parts. If major load-bearing areas have significant damage, it’s better to stay safe and replace the structure.
Can a permanent dock be damaged?
Permanent docks sit on large pipes or underdeck support systems. Assessing the damage below the waterline, let alone repairing it, requires specialized equipment.
Dock foundations are subject to:
- Water movement,
- Changing temperatures,
- Currents,
- Ice movement, and
- Other factors that can cause foundation shifts and severe damage.
Cracking is a sign that further investigation and possibly replacement of your docking system will be needed.
Posts Can’t Be Set Properly?
Permanent boat docking systems have supports to hold them up. In some instances, the support pipes must be driven up to 100 feet deep at times to find the solid rock. Even then, winter ice can grip the outside of the post and raise it again.
If the ice raises your posts, it might be time to replace your dock. Look into a floating aluminum or steel dock that adapts to fluctuating water conditions. This type of dock can be removed in winter or protected by a “de-icer” system. The “de-icer” system prevents the ice from locking onto the pipes and being drawn back up.
Custom Docking Systems – Pier & Waterfront Solutions
If it’s time to replace or upgrade your boat docking system, PWS can help. We are the experts in the waterfront business. We have helped many shoreline owners find their perfect waterfront solution – it’s written right into our name.
Did you know PWS has new and used aluminum or steel docks and lifts available? We also have the New 3-Season Pier (steel) for the roughest of waters.
Need an entirely new aluminum dock system or the perfect accessory? Pier & Waterfront Solutions has a support team that can help.
Remember, Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) specializes in Waterfront Solutions for docks and lifts.
For more information and what works best for your area, contact Jerry @ (920) 493-4404 TODAY – or – fill out this simple quote request form.
Where is Pier & Waterfront Solutions?
Located at 7325 St. Hwy 57, it’s 3 miles south of Sturgeon Bay, and 1 mile past the intersection of Cty MM (heading north). Look on the right side, one mile north, at the next intersection (Idlewild Road and Hwy 57).
ARE WE OPEN?
During this time of uncertainty, Pier & Waterfront Solutions has stayed “open.” We have implemented measures to ensure the safety of our employees and visitors. At the same time, we are working to maintain the trusted service that you have come to expect.
We are conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone. Site visits will continue as usual. When in-person contacts are necessary, we will follow “social distancing” guidelines.
Our display yard is always open for you to examine at your leisure. All displays have a numbered, red tag on them. If you want more information or pricing, please reference that number.
We provide estimates and invoices by email to make the process paperless and faster. With these measures, we hope everyone will stay safe, and we will be back to normal operations soon.
What can YOU do to help us?
Please conduct as much business as possible via emails, messaging, and emails. When you see our crews installing equipment, please practice “social distancing.”
Please call, message, or email us with any questions.
Thank you for allowing us to work with you.
Let’s all stay safe!
