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.
Jul 8, 2025
Hydraulic boat lifts offer faster and easier operation compared to cable lifts, making them a popular choice. Cable lifts are durable and require less maintenance. They are generally more affordable.
Fully Hydraulic Boat Lifts
A fully hydraulic lift is a modern type of lift that uses hydraulics to lift your boat. Hydraulic systems use pressurized fluid to transfer power and movement. In a hydraulic boat lift, the system is comprised of hydraulic cylinders connected to a control system and pump. The pump sends fluid into the cylinders, which move up or down to raise or lower the boat.
Fully hydraulic lifts are typically constructed as cantilever lifts, omitting the use of upper beams or cables. They can be installed as low-profile lifts with a shallow water kit. The cantilever style enabling easy access to the boat from the pier or loading dock. With their ability to handle heavy loads and fast speeds, hydraulic lifts are an ideal choice for large boats.
Faster:
Hydraulic lifts use hydraulic fluid to lift the boat, making them faster and easier to operate than cable lifts.
Higher Lifting Range:
Some hydraulic lifts can lift boats higher than cable lifts, offering greater versatility in water depth and boat size.
Maintenance:
Hydraulic lifts require regular maintenance to ensure the hydraulic fluid is clean and the system is functioning properly.
Perform boat lift battery maintenance:
- Inspect for damage regularly
- Clean battery terminals
- Check voltage
- Keep the battery charged
Cable Boat Lifts
A cable lift is a traditional type of boat lift that uses cables and pulleys to lift your boat. The cables are attached to the four corners of a cradle or platform that supports your boat. The cables are wound around a drum that can be driven by a manual wheel or an electric motor. When the motor rotates the drum, the cables pull the cradle up or down along the vertical corner posts.
Cable lifts are available as vertical or cantilever. Cable lifts, regardless of the type, can support boats of different shapes and sizes, including pontoons and fishing boats.
Less Expensive:
Cable lifts are generally more affordable than hydraulic lifts, making them a more budget-friendly option.
Durable:
Cable lifts are known for their durability and long-term reliability, with minimal maintenance required.
Slower Operation:
Cable lifts are generally slower to operate than hydraulic lifts, as they rely on a motor to pull the cable.
Water Depth:
Most cable lifts are designed to work well in shallow water.
Combination Hydraulic / Cable Lifts:
The combination hydraulic / cable lift utilizes hydraulic power to pull cables, rather than winding them around a drum. This reduces cable wear and maintenance. Less cable wear results in longer cable life, lowering the need for replacement.
Factors to Consider in Wisconsin
Water Fluctuation:
Wisconsin lakes and waterways experience significant water level fluctuations. This can affect the type of lift to choose.
Wave Action:
How wave action can affect boat lifts:
- Stress on cables: High waves can increase stress on boat lift cables, potentially causing them to weaken and even sever.
- Boat movement: Waves hitting the bottom of the boat can cause it to lift and fall back onto the rack.
- Overloading the lift: Storms can cause water to accumulate on the boat, potentially overloading the lift’s capacity.
Ultimately, the best choice for a boat lift depends on your specific needs, budget, and the location of your dock. Consider factors like water depth, boat size, and desired speed and ease of operation when making your decision. Contact Pier & Waterfront Solutions for assistance selecting the right system for you.
Jun 29, 2021
How Long Will a Boat Lift Last?
Your boat is a BIG investment. You want to protect it for years to come. It only makes sense that your boat lift system should last at least as long as your boat. If your boat lift is well-built and maintained, it can last 25 years or more. In general, a boat lift will last much longer if you take care of it.
Look at these areas as part of a regular boat lift maintenance schedule.
Weight Warnings
A properly sized boat lift will handle the weight of your boat plus the equipment you put in it. PWS will assist in selecting the proper size and type of boat lift for your hull and shoreline conditions.
The average boat up to 20′ will weigh in the 4 – 6,000 lb range. This includes the fuel, water, gas, motor(s). Don’t forget your passengers – including your friend – Big Bubba.
Don’t let people get in or out of the boat while it’s on the lift to avoid straining the system. When you’re not using your boat, remove the drain plug at the back of the boat. Rainwater can’t collect and add extra weight (roughly 8 lbs/gallon) if you do. Don’t forget to replace it before you go out again.
Lift Cables and Pulleys
Lubricate your cables with penetrating oil instead of grease. Replace any cables with rust spots, broken strands, fraying, or kinks. Grease the lift pulleys if required. Be sure to check the nuts and bolts to ensure tightness.
Boatlift cable backlash
Check your winch drum as the cable is winding onto it to avoid slack, misalignment, and uneven wear. Never allow your lift cables to go slack. A slack line will result in damage to the system. It’s like a backlash on a fishing pole, only with a rigid steel cable. It can be challenging to unravel.
Never use a screwdriver or hit the cable with a hammer in an attempt to release the line. You’re almost guaranteed to cause severe damage.
Motors, Gearboxes, and Drive Units
If your boat lift has a motor, examine it for signs of rust or water retention. Ensure that any holes on the top of the motor or winch are closed.
The bottom holes must be open for proper drainage.
Inspect your gearbox and drive units regularly. Check for appropriate alignment, damaged cables, and areas that need lubrication.
Lift beams
Inspect your bunk carpeting for wear and tear and any wood underneath the carpet for cracks and rot. Lift beams should be kept out of the water when not in use. Better yet, get an aluminum/vinyl set and never have to replace the carpeting again.
Keep your hardware tightened, and be sure that the bunks line up correctly with your boat hull.
Storage
If you’re storing your lift in the off-season, remove the battery if you have a power hoist. Store it on a small piece of wood. Store your lift with the cradle or platform to the top.
Your boat lift protects your boat, so it’s essential to keep it in good condition.
Proper care and maintenance can help you avoid costly damage. Your dock and accessories need to be inspected for damage, also. Check your manufacturer’s guidelines for more specific care instructions.
Weight
It’s up to you to stay within the manufacturer’s specifications. Staying within those specs is crucial.
Even lifting a boat with the wrong hull design can cause damage. Never add more weight to your boat while it’s on the lift.
Entering or exiting a boat while it’s on a boatlift can be very dangerous. Ensure you have proper weight distribution when lifting.
Lubrication
Cables are usually made of stainless steel and need lubrication. Regularly apply penetrating oil or chain and cable fluid to reduce abrasion.
Make sure not to use grease on the cables. Grease traps moisture inside the cable strands. However, boat lift motor components and pulleys usually require grease.
Since you’re lubricating your lift, check for damaged cables that need to be repaired, replaced, or tightened.
Water-Related Damage
Boat docks and lifts are still susceptible to water-related damage. Lift beams and bunks can be damaged by a boat coming in “hot.” When docking, check your speed, so you are not going faster than you are willing to hit the dock.
Keep your lift out of the water as much as possible. Small amounts of rust can be ground off and touched up.
Never place a plastic bag or cover over the winch and/or motors in the winter. Condensation will form inside and cause excessive damage.
Alignment
Uneven wear can shorten cable lifespan, so keep an eye on the cable alignment. Make sheave alignment part of your regular inspections. Keep an eye on the winder, drum, and spool.
If you notice a backlashed cable, slack, or other boat lift problems- STOP. Don’t go any further. Adjust the cables immediately. If you’re not sure of the alignment, contact the professionals at PWS.
Reminder – Use leather gloves to protect your hands when handling the cables.
Storage
Even off-season storage can contribute to how long your boat lift lasts. Store your boat lift with the platform up.
If you have a power hoist, remove the battery and store it inside on a small piece of wood.
Signs of Lift Damage
Once the flood or storm has died down, clear any debris off of your dock and lift. Look for bent or twisted beams, damaged drives, or broken bunks on your lift. Look for bent or damaged bolts and loose fasteners.
Check the lift cables for kinks, abrasions, frays, or breaks. Do not operate your lift until those cables are repaired or replaced.
If your boat lift shifted during the storm, realign it and make it square with the dock. When there are high waves, make sure the boat is still in the correct position.
Consult your installation manual or PWS for more information about adjustments. Even if everything looks good, make sure that you perform a test run of your lift. Check for any problems before you get back to boating.
At times large objects, like logs or other debris, strike your boatlift during the night or when you are away. Always look for damage if there was a storm.
ShoreMaster boat lifts are made with premium components. They make the best equipment to protect your boat.
In summary
Invest in the best boat lift brand to protect your boat – ShoreMaster.
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 waning thanks to the population getting vaccinations. We hope that the remaining people will get the vaccine to help stop the spread of this deadly virus. We will continue to conduct as much business as possible by email, text, or phone to do our part to keep people safe.
Site visits continue as usual. When making in-person contacts, we follow “social distancing” guidelines when possible by doing any face-to-face contact outdoors.
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.
