Nov 3, 2025
Waterfront enthusiasts!
The 2025 season may be coming to an end, but now is the best time to start preparing for next year. Pier & Waterfront Solutions recommends planning early by ordering new products in the fall or early winter for installation the following spring. Lead times for new products vary, and planning ahead is crucial for custom designs, special materials, and scheduling a professional installation. Ordering early saves money and avoids delays.
- Dock and pier systems
- Aluminum docks
- Steel docks
- Permanent piers
- Boat lifts
- Cradle lifts
- Free standing lifts
- Elevator lifts
- Canopies
- Steps and stairs
- Many accessories
- Shoreline work
- Riprap
- Dredging
- Barge work
- Rock drilling
- Piles
We specialize in installation, removal, and shoreline solutions for Door County and other Wisconsin waterways.
PWS provides sales, delivery, and installation of piers, lifts, and other waterfront equipment, and accessories. Call now to have your pier designed, built and installed for next season.
Pier and Waterfront Solutions will design and manufacturer custom-built docks and floating piers for both residential and commercial applications. Customized docks and piers require additional time for engineering, design and manufacturing. Ordering early will ensure your products are ready for spring waterfront activities.
The first step to enjoying your waterfront is getting there! Waterfront Steps and Stairs are a valuable property addition. They provide safe, convenient water access while enhancing aesthetics, and boosting property value. Besides design and manufacturing, most steps and stairs require installation planning and preparation of the site. Order now to transform your “water-view” property into a waterfront adventure.
Consider accessories to include when ordering you’re your pier:
Boat lift accessories: Winch motors, canopies, and solar charging systems.
Pier accessories: Benches, ladders, bumpers, and cleats will make your pier ready for family and friends.
Toy accessories: Paddleboard/ Canoe/ Kayak Rack and Personal water craft docks make space for children and grandchildren and their toys.
How PWS can help:
- Schedule a site meeting: consider the type of pier (three season, permanent, or floating), your lakebed, shoreline work, and the accessories you want installed. Review example drawings and photos of pier and waterfront configurations.
- Request a quote: Reach out to PWS to discuss your project and a firm price. Since it is currently November 2025, contact us as soon as possible to meet the timeline for your spring 2026 installation.
- Annual follow up service: Ask about annual installation and removal for the pier products you are interested in.
Pier & Waterfront Solutions is your single source for waterfront excellence. We handle everything from design to construction and after-care, so you can focus on effortless waterfront living and cherishing every magical moment on your pier.
Don’t settle for an ordinary pier. Let’s design your waterfront masterpiece together. Contact us today at 920-493-4404 for a free consultation and unlock the full potential of your waterfront property.
Aug 27, 2025
Having a dock can be a great way to enjoy your waterfront home to the fullest. However, to make your experience even more enjoyable, you may want to have a few fun and beneficial accessories. Dock accessories play a key role in enhancing your dock’s usability, safety, and comfort.
Bumpers: Bumpers protect your dock from being knocked and damaged by your boat during mooring. Installing bumpers can help your boat dock last longer and continue to have a scratch-free appearance. Dock bumpers are available in various sizes and materials, including foam and rubber, to suit different needs and preferences.
Cleats: Cleats are small metal fixtures used to secure mooring lines. Sturdy and inconspicuous, they help you keep your boat safe and secure.
Paddleboard/ Canoe/ Kayak Rack: Store your paddleboard, kayak or canoe off of your dock with an accessory bracket that attaches to the outside perimeter of your dock at any location. Kayak racks provide a secure and organized way to store kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards on your dock. They keep your watercraft safe and out of the way when not in use. Installing a kayak rack maximizes space on your dock and ensures that your equipment is readily accessible and protected from damage.
Handrail: It’s the perfect accessory for safety-conscious owners.
Power Pedestals: Dock power pedestals offer numerous benefits including convenient access to electricity and water for boaters, streamlined connections, enhanced safety, and improved overall dock management. They eliminate the need for long extension cords and hoses, allowing for easy access to power and water for charging devices, running appliances, and performing maintenance.
Boat canopies: offer various benefits like sun protection, weather resistance, and enhanced boat value. The protection they provide against UV rays, water damage, and debris preserve the value of your boat.
Electric winch motors: replace manual cranking, allowing you to lift or pull with the push of a button or remote control, reducing manual effort and saving time. Winch motors offer controlled and predictable lifting/pulling motions, minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Even if you aren’t a serious boater, there are a few dock accessories that can give you a safer and more enjoyable experience.
Ladders: Permanent ladders let you get in and out of the water easily. Pivot Ladders have a vertical pivoting action and locking pin allowing you to flip the ladder up when you’re not using it.
Fishing Station / Rod Holder: lets you relax on your dock and catch tonight’s dinner. The QuickConnect rod holder system is drill-free so you can move it anywhere on your dock.
Dock Bench: dock benches add comfort and style to your dock.
Dock Furniture: is easy to add, remove and adjust for a beautiful look and relaxing atmosphere. Transform your dock into a comfortable lounging area.
Solar Dock Lights: offer cost-effective and easy installation eliminating the need for electrical wiring. Solar lights enhance safety by providing illumination for navigating docks at night and preventing accidents. Solar lights are available in various designs and colors, adding to the visual appeal of the dock.
Slides and basketball hoops: add fun and games to your dock.
Pier and Waterfront Solutions is delighted to not only build and install docks but also provide you with a wide array of dock accessories. Whether you need a new ladder or dock bumpers, we’re happy to help you choose the dock accessories you want and install them for you. Pier & Waterfront Solutions will make your dock system work for you so you can get back to enjoying your time on the water.
Aug 31, 2021
DOCK SWAY BRACE
Is a sway brace used on your dock? If not, does your dock sway as you walk on it? There are several reasons this can happen to any dock or pier.
There are main TWO reasons for dock movement.
You need to distinguish between the two types of movement. Is it an up and down movement, or is it a side to side movement?
First, Let’s tackle the Up and Down movement.
When installed, PWS makes sure the legs are firmly on the bottom. This typically makes the dock stable for most people.
Yet, over time, storms can wash out or move the sand or rocks under the footpads. Sand is more susceptible to this action.
It’s the same effect that erosion has on the shoreline. First, it washes away sand and small stones from under the footpad. Then, it continues to work on the remaining stones and rocks. When enough materials are removed, there is nothing left to support the leg.
At this point, you may experience the sensation of up and down movement as you walk.
How do we prevent it from happening?
There is no way to completely prevent washing out of the footpads. If we disturb the lake bottom too much, it weakens the tightly packed base. Disturbing the lake bottom makes it easier for the wave action to wash the sand away. The sand (or small stones) are loosely packed and have small openings in them.
The only “cure” is to reset the legs firmly on the bottom. We notice this frequently occurs after strong storms. The “white caps” you see are moving the water under the surface also.
The second type of movement is actual “sway.”
“Sway” is the side-to-side movement when the dock is set higher above the water.
The current water level is still above average even though it is down from 2019 and 2020. This is evidenced by the continued erosion happening up and down the shoreline.
PWS raises your dock up to protect it from high wave action during the summer. When the frames are adjusted higher, the pier becomes less stable. Walking on the dock will cause a side-to-side movement because the center of gravity is higher.
Think of a simple fishing pole. When the pole moves at the bottom, the movement is amplified at the top of the pole. The higher the frames are raised, the more side movement will occur.
See this link for more information.
There is a solution.
A sway brace on the legs reduces the sway side sway. You’ll feel more secure as you walk the length of your dock.
Sway Brace
Does every set of legs need sway braces?
No. PWS will make recommendations based on the heights and lengths of your dock or pier. Often, we add a single brace on a pair of legs. Next, we alternate the position in the opposite direction on the next set of legs.
One brace is attached near the bottom of one leg and clamped higher up on the opposite leg. This depends on the height of the legs.
It may involve a crew member having to submerge in the water to reach the bottom of the leg. In spring, that is not something anyone wants to do.
Does it matter if I have an aluminum or steel frame?
A steel frame is less likely to need braces than an aluminum frame due to its own weight. Different configurations are available for aluminum frames, but the principle is the same.
Braces are available for new installations, as shown here. There is an add-on version (independent components) for existing frames. They can be added to existing dock legs if needed. Either version will help stabilize your dock in deeper water.
Will sway braces help your dock?
Call Jerry at 920-493-4404 for more details.
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 corner (Idlewild Road and Hwy 57).
Is PWS OPEN?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “open.” We have implemented measures to help ensure the safety of our employees and visitors. PWS continues to work to maintain the trusted service that you have come to expect.
PWS implemented these preventive measures:
1. Conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
2. Site visits will continue. When in-person contacts are necessary, we will follow “social distancing” guidelines.
3. 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.
What can YOU do to help us?
1. Please conduct as much business as possible via emails, messaging, and emails. This step protects everyone involved.
2. When you see our crews installing equipment, please practice “social distancing.” Remain at a safe distance.
Thank you for allowing us to work with you.
YES – PWS is OPEN and waiting for you!
Please call, message, or email PWS with any questions.
Let’s all stay safe!
Aug 19, 2021
Thanks for the prompt help with our dock. Looks Great. Guys were very efficient. Hope to continue your services going forward.
Jim G. Door County
Aug 3, 2021
PIER & WATERFRONT SOLUTIONS
It’s been a fast-moving six months since our last article about PWS.
Dave Kalista and Jerry Englebert started in 2015. Like all new business owners, they were willing to put their futures on the line.
The first “office” consisted of a tiny room that was so small that you had to walk sideways to get to the table. It was the size of a closet in a new home.
All-Terrain Forklift
PWS tested an ATF that buried itself in the soft shoreline at Sugar Creek Park. It became clear that the machine would not work.
ATF for dock install
PWS bought the 1st All-Terrain Forklift and modified it to handle the conditions they would encounter.
While Jerry made sales, installs were done by hand or by using the All-Terrain Forklift. Dave operated the ATF along with Alex, our first employee. Alex is with us today and has his own crew.
PWS expanded
Pier & Waterfront Solutions moved out of the “closet” and into an office on Hwy 57 (our current location).
Today, manufacturing, a welding operation, and an assembly area occupy the warehouse. We still have room for a limited amount of equipment storage.
2016-2021 saw more ATF’s, crews, and trailers added – five ATF’s to be exact.
Meanwhile, the one-room office has grown into three offices. These offices accommodate the office staff of six required to handle the growing business.
PWS EXPANDED AGAIN
During late 2018 the Great Lakes and Green Bay experienced record water depths. The resulting damages included the loss of many shorelines. Trees and up to 50 feet of lawn washed away at some locations.
PWS responded by expanding its rip-rap business. PWS remains the only dock and boat lift company on the Door County peninsula to do so.
Enlarged 36′ x 45″ Barge
As the rip-rap business grew, we introduced a 24′ x 45′ barge and pusher boat. PWS needed the barge to protect the customer’s landscaping from damage.
In 2021, PWS added another section to the barge, making it a 36″ x 45′ barge. It continues to service both sides of the peninsula from Milwaukee to the tip of Door County.
Why such a large barge?
The barge allows PWS to transport excavators, track-mounted skid steers, and tons of boulders to the work sites from the waterside.
There is no damage to the landscaping.
It’s more economical for the homeowner, in most cases, and gives us access to areas that aren’t accessible by land.
GALVANIZED DOCK – NEXT INTRODUCTION
3-Season Pier
PWS developed a line of galvanized steel docks. The new docks use the best materials available today. Most steel docks are too light to handle the storms in open areas. Other models lacked the open-deck design of the 3-Season Pier.
After two years of testing, PWS introduced the 3-Season Pier. As a heavier, more robust steel pier, it is unmatched on Lake Michigan.
One of the features of the 3-Season Pier is a 25% larger platform. That’s more room for entertaining. Plus, it’s not a “special order.” “Special Order” is just another way of saying – more expensive.
The 3-Season Pier is available in 4′, 5′, and the prestigious 6′ width. The 3-Season Pier handles the high water and the strong storms you experience today.
The strength and dependability are evident when you look for a dock that will be around for a long time.
What was next?
The rapidly expanding business required more innovation to keep up with demand. In 2021, PWS added another barge. This time, equipped with a movable crane.
Barge w/ crane for dock removal
The “Small” barge (12′ x 45′) contains an articulating crane with a 60′ reach. The “small barge” eliminates the need for shore access by heavy equipment. The new crane also means reduced damage to a homeowner’s landscaping.
As Door County continues to build, land access for our equipment is diminishing. In the past, empty lots served as access to the shorelines. Today those lots are fully developed with manicured lawns and huge homes. In some areas, water access is the only available route.
What has happened to the Dock market in Door County?
The unexpected closure of an old dock business in Door County resulted in an influx of new customers. PWS is already planning its next moves to handle a large number of new customers. We plan to have everything ready for Spring 2022.
How will you find out about these changes?
The best way is to come back here each week and follow these posts on our website.
Summary
PWS already had the strongest aluminum dock as part of the ShoreMaster line. Now PWS has the strongest galvanized steel dock.
Call Jerry today. (920-493-4404) or email him at jerry@wisconsinpws.com or use this request form.
Tell Your Friends & Family
Visit Pier & Waterfront Solutions on Facebook.
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 County MM (heading north). Look on the right side, one mile north, at the next corner (Idlewild Road and Hwy 57).
Is PWS OPEN?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions never closed. We have implemented measures to ensure the safety of our employees and visitors. We are working to maintain the trusted service that you have come to expect.
PWS implemented precautionary measures:
1. Conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
2. Site visits continue. When in-person contacts are necessary, we will follow “social distancing” guidelines.
3. 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.
What can YOU do to help us?
1. Please conduct as much business as possible via emails, messaging, and emails. This step protects everyone involved.
2. When you see our crews installing equipment, please practice “social distancing.”
Thank you for allowing us to work with you.
YES – PWS is OPEN and waiting for you!
Please call, message, or email PWS with any questions.
Let’s all stay safe!
