Jun 1, 2021
Choice –by any name = Pier & Waterfront Solutions
Pier & Waterfront Solutions offers more dock choices than any Door County dock dealer. Most dealers offer a limited choice of aluminum docks or possibly a lightweight steel dock. Aluminum is popular because it is lightweight and easier to handle. But are they always the best choice for you?
Let’s look at the overall picture.
Pier & Waterfront Solutions is your exclusive ShoreMaster dealer on the Door County peninsula. ShoreMaster offers (5) aluminum dock frame styles. These include configurations for roll-in, stationary, and floating docks.
Now that’s a selection worth investigating!
In general, all ShoreMaster docks are made from the heaviest aluminum materials. In fact, they are almost twice as heavy as other brands. ShoreMaster dock frames are the strongest aluminum frames made. That’s why they hold up so well on the Bay. They are unmatched in quality and have a 15-year structural warranty.
Here is a comparison of the dock choices PWS offers and why they are so popular:
RS 4 –
ShoreMaster RS4 features a 4″ side rail, 10′ and 12′ lengths. There are seven types of decking available. You can use 5-sided aluminum or round steel legs. It’s ideal for calm waters on an inland lake or a sheltered area on the Bay.
RS 4 Curved –
RS4 Curved dock
The RS4 Curved dock is built to the same rigorous specs as the RS 4 shown above. What’s different is the availability of 45 – degree and 90 – degree curved sections.
These curved sections allow for more configurations than anyone else offers. (Hint – You can use curved sections with ANY ShoreMaster dock frame to genuinely make your dock unique.
RS7*
Features a 7″ side rail system. Available in 8′ and 16′ sections. Ideal for rough waters in an open area.
ShoreMaster RS7 and RS4 curved dock RS7 Dock
TS9 Dock frame with Flow -Through decking
TS9*
Uses a 9″ Truss construction side frame. 8′ and 16′ sections are available. Use with 5-sided aluminum legs or steel legs— ideal for rough waters and most open areas.
FTS9 –
The FTS9 has the identical construction of the TS9 in all respects. The frames have floats attached and are ideal for soft muddy bottoms.
Even MORE Choices
There are nine different types of decking available for the ShoreMaster frames shown above.
Poly Dock – http://polydockproducts.com/
PolyDock floating dock
Poly Dock is a modular dock design made of rotationally molded polyethylene. This floating dock does not have the unsightly black floats.
Poly Dock is a floating dock system that can withstand up to 2′ waves. It’s ideal for inland lakes or rivers with muddy bottoms and large water fluctuations.
Is aluminum the best choice on the Bay?
Aluminum dock frames may not always be the best dock solution with the current high water and heavy storms. Even though water levels are down this year, they are still above average by 14″.
Is there another choice?
3-Seasons Pier on Lake Michigan
PWS now offers the Exclusive all galvanized steel 3-Season Pier.
The 3-Season Pier meets PWS‘s demanding specifications for strength and durability. It’s a one-of-a-kind dock.
The frames weigh over a quarter ton without the oversized steel legs and decking. 3-Season piers withstand just about everything Mother Nature can throw at it. No Wisconsin manufacturer builds a heavier frame.
Gray Decking
Speaking of decking, PWS recommends flow-through decking for the 3- Season pier. This type of decking relieves most of the upward pressure caused by a storm’s high waves.
Is the 3 – Season Pier just another steel dock?
PWS was not willing to build just any steel dock. It had to meet their strict standards – or – PWS would not put their name on it. It is our fastest growing product.
Who installs the 3-Season Pier?
PWS installs everything we offer. Our unique ATF’s and the 40′ barge with the 60′ crane make the job look easy.
Now you know why Pier & Waterfront Solutions is so popular. We offer everything you need for your dock or lift.
Contact us TODAY!
To Summarize
Pier & Waterfront Solutions has the most dock choices from any manufacturer.
Where can you find Pier & Waterfront Solutions?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions, 7325 St. Hwy 57, is located 3 miles south of Sturgeon Bay. Go 1 mile PAST the intersection with County MM (heading north). Look on the right at the intersection of Idlewild Road and Hwy 57.
PWS is
Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “open” year-round.
The Covid-19 virus is beginning to wane. We can only hope people will continue to get the vaccine to help slow this illness. We continue to conduct as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
Site visits continue as usual. When making in-person contacts, we follow “social distancing” guidelines when possible.
PWS display yard – OPEN 24-7
Red Tag
PWS‘s display area is always open for you to examine at your leisure. All displays available for sale have a numbered, red tag on them. Want more information on something you saw in our yard? Please reference that number when you inquire.
PWS provides estimates by email to make the process faster, safer, and paperless.
Call, message, or email Jerry with any questions.
Jerry Englebert
Contact Jerry at 920-493-4404 for more information or use this link.
May 25, 2021
What dock dealer has your next dock?
Selecting the right dock dealer is the most important part of finding the right dock for your property. You need a dealer with experience and a great reputation.
How experienced is Pier & Waterfront Solutions?
The combined knowledge of our staff, some of whom go back over 25 years, means we have encountered virtually every type of situation on the Door County Peninsula. PWS selected only the best dock lines to handle.
Our goal is not to have the most locations, just the best equipment, trained employees and knowledgeable staff. The rest will take care of itself.
PWS has provided docks for small ponds, inland lakes, floating docks for soft, muddy bottoms, and standing docks for sandy beaches and large boulders. PWS docks range from lightweight aluminum to galvanized steel docks so heavy it takes a crane or All-Terrain Forklift to move them.
Rest assured, PWS offers the correct solution for your next dock.
What about the PWS reputation?
Talk to your neighbors. They usually know of all the dock dealers in Door County. In most cases, Pier & Waterfront Solutions will come up as the premier dealer.
Some products PWS offers come with a 15 year structural warranty. All of our products come with the backing of our years of knowledge and professional staff. PWS provides professional guidance when it comes to selecting your new pier or dock.
There are NO high-pressure salespeople at PWS.
PWS has installations along both sides of the Door County peninsula. We usually can find a close-by installation to assure you that we can handle your situation. PWS also uses satellite images to help understand your requirements.
PWS is the only dock dealer in the area who responded to the high water and strong storms of recent years, by providing rip-rap installations to protect your shoreline with our own crews.
Unique challenges
Each body of water has unique challenges for dock owners. Before considering a dock, we need to have an idea of what you are facing. That’s why we ask questions when you first approach us. We need to know the requirements you want.
The type of dock used in a sheltered area generally will not work on Lake Michigan waters. New to the area? PWS can make recommendations for the entire peninsula.
Experienced boaters will tell you the “Bay” conditions can change rapidly. The water could have a mirror-like surface at 11 A.M. and be a raging storm with 4′ waves an hour later. (See https://wisconsinpws.com/weather-radar-boaters/). That’s why you need the best solution for your location.
What about decking?
PWS offers a comprehensive range of decking – from wood to concrete to Flow-Through decking. Most decking comes in more than one color to meet your individual needs. Currently, the most popular colors are tan and gray.
Are there different dock widths available?
PWS offers widths ranging from 3′ to the legal limit of 8′ wide, depending on the style. Our most popular sizes range from 4′ to 6′ wide. In galvanized steel, the 5′ widths have become very popular.
Does Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) do installations?
Lift & Dock installation
PWS has the widest range of equipment and the best reputation to handle your installation. We have (5) very dependable ATFs (All-Terrain Vehicles) capable of going into over 3′ of water. Our crew leaders are experienced and trained to handle every situation.
Don’t have beach access for our ground equipment?
“Small Barge”
PWS features a 40′ barge equipped with a deck mounted, moving 60′ crane for installs and removals. The barge can pick up your dock or lifts and place them on top of most cliffs to protect them from winter ice damage.
Pier & Waterfront Solutions has you covered.
Where can you find Pier & Waterfront Solutions?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions, 7325 St. Hwy 57, is located 3 miles south of Sturgeon Bay. Go 1 mile PAST the intersection with County MM (heading north). Look on the right at the intersection of Idlewild Road and Hwy 57.
PWS is
Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “open” year-round.
The Covid-19 virus is beginning to wane. We can only hope people will continue to get the vaccine to help slow this illness. We continue to conduct as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
Site visits continue as usual. When making in-person contacts, we follow “social distancing” guidelines when possible.
PWS display yard – OPEN 24-7
Red Tag
PWS‘s display area is always open for you to examine at your leisure. All displays available for sale have a numbered, red tag on them. Want more information on something you saw in our yard? Please reference that number when you inquire.
PWS provides estimates by email to make the process faster, safer, and paperless.
Call, message, or email Jerry with any questions.
Jerry Englebert
Contact Jerry at 920-493-4404 for more information or use this link.
May 18, 2021
Weather Radar and Boaters
All Boaters need to understand weather radar.
In the old days, weather forecasters based their predictions on a combination of things:
2. Good eyesight (a weather eye); and
While today’s boater likely will look at his cell phone rather than looking up at the sky. For example, my wife can predict a change in weather by the pain in her elbow. She’s pretty accurate and she’s getting old too. (Note: I don’t let her read these.)
When dark clouds start building, having a basic understanding of how weather works can give you a head start on preparations.
Not all thunderstorms are intense, but they all are potentially dangerous. Boaters are especially vulnerable to the weather. They can’t simply run “inside” for protection. It pays to have basic weather-reading skills — so you can be prepared.
Here’s some help:
The Basics of Weather
Dark Clouds
Clouds
Whole books have been written on how to predict the weather by looking at clouds. Most people have a hard time remembering all the different types and what they signify. Here’s a simple rule of thumb: slow clouds get lower, or puffy clouds grow and get higher. Keep an eye out for rain or a storm. When looking at the sky, it’s helpful to remember that most weather changes come from the west. So keep your weather eye in that direction.
Generally, the slower the clouds change, the longer the duration of the weather change.
Thunderheads form quickly and dissipate just as quickly. Slowly thickening clouds associated with a cold front often mean a soaker.
Winds
Most of the time, winds are light in the morning. The winds pick up in the afternoon, and then return to light again as evening approaches.
If you find the wind speed not following the usual local pattern, suspect a change coming.
The direction of wind changes can also give you a heads-up to what’s coming. If the wind changes clockwise — say, from the south to southwest to the west — it usually means fair weather on the way.
If the wind changes counterclockwise, it usually signifies the approach of foul weather. An example would be, winds changing from the west to southwest and then to the south.
During the formation of a “pop-up” thunderstorm, the wind doesn’t always follow that rule. A “pop-up” thunderstorm often comes straight down from the clouds. It then spreads out in all directions. If you feel a sudden cool wind, check the sky for towering clouds.
Food for thought: When the speed of the wind increases, its effect on your boat rises exponentially. Your boat acts like a “sail.”
Did you know that a 20-knot wind has four times the force of a 10-knot wind?
Barometers
Weather Barometer
Barometers are more than just pretty brass instruments. The have a useful purpose. It’s just that most people do not understand their purpose – but they do look good.
Knowing what they’re saying can alert you to the advancing weather. Barometers are typically marked with areas of the face declaring “fair,” “changing,” and so on. The wording is misleading since reading a barometer is about noting changes.
A falling barometer usually means bad weather is approaching. It’s as much the speed of the change as the change itself that’s important to note.
A rapid fall means more significant changes. The normal pattern is a small up-and-down change that you can ignore.
A rapid rise may mean fair weather with strong winds. Typically, checking a barometer every couple of hours is adequate. Look for the direction of the change.
Thunder
If a thunderstorm is approaching, listening to thunder can tell you a lot about it. Counting the seconds between a “flash” of lightning and the “boom,” gives you the distance from the lightning. A five second difference equals about a mile.
Parents: if your children are afraid of thunder and lightning, explain that it is miles away. Then, distract them by asking them to count the seconds between the lightning and the thunder. It becomes a game for them, and they become less afraid of the noise.
Radar
Check the radar on your phone. Use the zip code 54301 for Green Bay. This is where the National Weather Service (NWS) is located. Their radar map includes the entire Door County peninsula.
The radar map will tell you where a storm is and where it’s heading. But, do not rely totally on radar. Because of the size of the Bay and Lake Michigan, there are frequently “pop-up” storms. That means unless you are actively looking at the radar, you can miss the approach of these storms.
Radar gives you the range and movement of the rain, allowing you to change course to avoid the worst. If the storm overtakes you – turn the boat “into” the waves and reduce speed.
Keep in mind, using the hourly radar will tell you where the rain is, but only a little information about the winds.
If you feel a sudden change in temperature, it signifies a change in wind intensity is coming. Start looking for a safe harbor, just in case.
Knowing the forecast before you head out is equally important.
BoatUS App
You can download and use the BoatUS App to track the weather. You’ll get small craft advisories and weather forecasts. Authorize “notifications” to receive updates about storm information. These occur each time NOAA tracks a storm heading your way.
NOAA
The most prominent weather data forecasts come from NOAA’s National Weather Service (NWS). NWS broadcasts weather for all parts of the U.S. via the Internet. It issues regular updated VHF broadcasts. All modern VHF radios can tune in to the forecasts, which operate on one of seven frequencies. Scan through the channels to find the best reception. Boaters can hear the computer-synthesized voice 25 miles or more from the transmitter.
The NOAA website lists current wind speed, wave height, and more at a nearby weather buoy. Go to: www.ndbc.noaa.gov for a look.
Weather Folk Lore
Red sky in morning, sailors take warning, red sky at night, sailors’ delight.
Pink Sky – Sailors Delight
Ever wonder what that means?
At night, a red sky signifies light passing through dust particles in the air in front of the setting sun. Dust indicates dry weather. Since most weather changes come from the west, a red sky at night means dry weather is approaching.
A red sky in the morning indicates that the dry air has moved east. Rain may be coming, especially if you see illuminated clouds.
If the morning sky is a deep fiery red, it means high water content in the atmosphere with the likelihood of rain. A gray sky at night means that the western air has a lot of moisture; therefore, it will likely rain soon.
One thing to remember: this rhyme can’t predict thunderstorms developing in the afternoon. Especially, when the morning has already been clear.
A summer fog for fair, a winter fog for rain.
Fog forms when the air cools enough that the water vapor condenses. When moist air moves over cold land, it will bring fog and possibly rain. For the air to be cool on a summer night, the sky must be clear. With clear skies, the excess heat can radiate into space. Cloudy skies act like a blanket, absorbing and re-radiating the heat, keeping it in.
If it is clear and cool enough for the fog to form on a summer morning, it should be clear later or at least by the next day.
When a halo rings the moon or sun, rain’s approaching on the run.
The halo around the sun or moon is caused by ice crystals high in the sky. A warm front is approaching and usually rain will be here within 24 hours. The rhyme is more accurate in the summer than the winter.
The higher the clouds, the better the weather.
High clouds mean both dry air and high atmospheric pressure. These indicate fair weather. Lower clouds mean approaching rain.
Marine Warnings and What They Mean
- Gale Warning: This is published when winds will be in the range of 34 to 47 knots.
- Storm Warning: This is issued if winds between 48 to 63 knots are forecast.
-
Special Marine Warning: This warning is for boaters, in particular. It is issued whenever a severe local storm or strong wind of brief duration is imminent. It is not covered by existing warnings or advisories.
To sum this up – Learn all you can about clouds and winds – It can mean the difference between a nice cruise and a disaster.
Where can I find Pier & Waterfront Solutions?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions, 7325 St. Hwy 57, is located 3 miles south of Sturgeon Bay. Go 1 mile PAST the intersection with County MM (heading north). Look on the right at the intersection of Idlewild Road and Hwy 57.
PWS is
Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “open” year-round.
The Covid-19 virus is beginning to wane. We can only hope people will continue to get the vaccine to help slow this illness. We continue to conduct as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
Site visits continue as usual. When making in-person contacts, we follow “social distancing” guidelines when possible.
PWS display yard – OPEN 24-7
Red Tag
PWS‘s display area is always open for you to examine at your leisure. All displays available for sale have a numbered, red tag on them. Want more information on something you saw in our yard? Please reference that number when you inquire.
PWS provides estimates by email to make the process faster, safer, and paperless.
Call, message, or email Jerry with any questions.
Jerry Englebert
Contact Jerry at 920-493-4404 for more information or use this link.
May 11, 2021
Selecting the Correct Dock Lights
Lights for your dock and boat lift are essential for the security of your family and guests. Proper dock lights can prevent a serious accident.
Lighting also serves as a guide when you return to your pier at night.
PWS will help you select the proper lighting for your particular needs.
Here are some suggestions to enhance the security, safety, and appearance of your dock.
Are Solar-Powered Lights better than AC Lights?
Solar cells can control both systems. AC-powered lights can also operate with a timer. Solar lights turn on and off when the light level dims. You don’t have to be present, and they need no AC power to operate.
Solar-powered lights cost nothing to use and are safer to operate, with no risk of shock. They charge even when it’s cloudy.
Reminder: You don’t have to remove a solar powered lights if your dock requires removal each year. Solar lights are self-contained and have no exposed wires. Solar lighting does not need power boxes at the shore with safety circuits in the house.
To answer your question – YES – solar lighting is the preferred method.
Where can you mount dock lights?
The preferred location for dock lighting is on the deck surface or on the leg posts. The deck-mounted style mounts along the edge of the dock, where you are not likely to step on it. You have a choice:
-
-
A hole placed in the decking with the lights placed almost flush with the deck surface.
-
Lights can mount on the side of the dock.
-
Mounted on the top of the decking at the edge of the pier. OR
-
Mounted on the boat lift uprights.
-
Surface Dock Light
Surface mounted Dot Lights
Use this link for more information.
What about post lights?
A post-mounted light fixture mounts on a leg post above the decking. This is a simple mounting, but the heights may vary depending on the water depths from year to year.
Post lights
For Visual Drama and Safety, Illuminate the Water’s Edge
Add a set of lights that shine into the water and reflect off the edges of the dock. This adds both visual impact and a second safety factor. The pier is more visible as you bring the boat into your lift.
Choose Colors that Help Identify Your Dock for Visitors
At night, it can be difficult to distinguish which dock is yours. This is especially true if you cannot see any of the landscaping or tree outlines. If neighboring piers use the same colored lights, it can be challenging to pick the correct one.
Consider adding red and green lights at the end of your dock to help you steer your boat to the correct side at night. You can use any available color scheme at the end.
Light for Safety When Leaving the Dock Area
Place a light on a high pole or tree, shining down at the entrance to your path or stairway. This will provide visibility at the entrance to your dock. Avoid lights that cast a bright light in a wide pattern. Let your guests and neighbors sleep.
Think safety first, visual drama second.
Who can help you make your selections? Pier & Waterfront Solutions!!!
Where can I find Pier & Waterfront Solutions?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions, 7325 St. Hwy 57, is located 3 miles south of Sturgeon Bay. Go 1 mile PAST the intersection with County MM (heading north). Look on the right at the next corner – Idlewild Road and Hwy 57.
Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “open” year-round.
The Covid-19 virus continues to spread and affects many people. We are conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
Site visits continue as usual. When making in-person contacts, we follow “social distancing” guidelines when possible.
PWS display yard – OPEN 24-7
Red Tag
PWS‘s display area is always open for you to examine at your leisure. All displays available for sale have a numbered, red tag on them. Want more information on something you saw in our yard? Please reference that number when you inquire.
PWS provides estimates by email to make the process faster, safer, and paperless.
Call, message, or email Jerry with any questions.
Jerry Englebert
Contact Jerry at 920-493-4404 for more information or use this link.
May 4, 2021
May – Water Safety Month
Water Safety Month is here. With the start of Summer right around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about FUN IN THE SUN! You’ve been waiting for it – Now ENJOY IT!!
You want all your family and friends to be safe, and you would never allow an injury to occur. Let your family enjoy the entire Summer on the water! Here are some helpful tips to keep you in the sun all Summer long!
For Safety – Always wear a life jacket!
Whether you’re on a boat or a personal watercraft, always wear a personal flotation device for personal safety. Young children should always wear life jackets anytime they are in or on the water. A life jacket is the first line of defense against drownings.
They will insist that they can swim so they don’t need one. Can you ensure there will be no leg cramps or a head injury? Either of these would render them unable to “swim like the fish they think they are”? Don’t give in! YOU are the ADULT. Make them wear a floatation device for their safety.
Ensure that the life jacket fits snugly but comfortably. Make sure it cannot slip above the chin or ears when tugged on at the shoulders. Life jackets must be worn correctly to keep them safe.
Do you really want to find out what it’s like to lose a child, a friend, or a grandchild? Be the adult and insist they wear a life jacket.
Pay Attention to the Weather
Summer weather can change. Severe weather can crop up quickly and escalate even faster. For everyones safety, pay attention to weather forecasts and the skies. Don’t get caught on a lake when the weather goes from sunny to stormy.
Always wear sunscreen!
Today, we are all aware of the danger we incur when the sun is out. The reflection off the water and wet skin amplify the sun’s intensity. Protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
Drinking and Boating Don’t Mix.
A cool beverage can be refreshing on a hot Summer day but don’t drink and drive a boat. Consuming alcohol impairs your judgment. It slows your reflexes, making it harder for you to steer, swim and assist those around you. If you want to have a cool beverage, do it from the safety of the shoreline.
May-Water Safety Month
In Wisconsin, you will get a traffic citation for operating a boat while under the influence. Even using a PWC under the influence will get you a ticket.
Speaking of a PWC – everyone loves to race a boat or another PWC. It is easy to lose control and get thrown off the PWC. Maintain at least 100 feet from a dock and between any water vessel and 200 feet of the shoreline.
Read this state approved handbook – page 26 for additional regulations. A citation for operating in an unsafe manner will spoil your day.
A general rule of thumb is – if the state law does not allow you to drive a vehicle in that manner – it’s probably illegal on the water too.
For safety – Keep Your Speed Down and Pay Attention
The lakes and waterways can get very busy in the Summer months. Watch out for other boats, swimmers, tubers, and skiers. Maintain a safe speed and always practice defensive driving. Not sure what the other guy is going to do? – stay clear!
Keep an eye out for boats and swimmers in distress.
Use the Buddy System for Safety
Bring a buddy with you – it’s more fun and safer! Even experienced swimmers can get into a dangerous situation and need help.
Make National Water Safety Month an excellent experience for everyone.
Where can I find Pier & Waterfront Solutions?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions, 7325 St. Hwy 57, is located 3 miles south of Sturgeon Bay. Go 1 mile PAST the intersection with County MM (heading north). Look on the right at the next corner – Idlewild Road and Hwy 57.
Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “open” year-round.
The Covid-19 virus continues to spread and affects many people. We are conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
Site visits continue as usual. When making in-person contacts, we follow “social distancing” guidelines when possible.
PWS display yard – OPEN 24-7
Red Tag
PWS‘s display area is always open for you to examine at your leisure. All displays available for sale have a numbered, red tag on them. Want more information on something you saw in our yard? Please reference that number when you inquire.
PWS provides estimates by email to make the process faster, safer, and paperless.
Call, message, or email Jerry with any questions.
Jerry Englebert
Contact Jerry at 920-493-4404 for more information or use this link.
