Sep 8, 2020
Vinyl Bunks Are A Better Value.
Vinyl bunks are a much better value than carpeted bunks. You bought your boat to enjoy yourself – not replace worn-out carpeting on the weekend.
Many boat and PWC lifts utilize carpeted bunks to support the vessel. These are an economical option and provide sufficient support for your boat or PWC (personal watercraft).
Vinyl Bunks
However, over time, the carpet on wood bunks becomes worn or frayed. This situation can create contact between the hull of the boat and the raw wood. Besides, sand and debris could be lodged in the carpet fabric. The sand will grind against the hull of the watercraft. It goes without saying this is not a condition you want. Any loose or frayed carpet should be replaced to prevent potential trip hazards too.
Do your carpeted boat bunks need replacement again this year? Vinyl bunks never require replacement.
Vinyl boat bunks may cost more than carpeted bunks initially but they are a better value over time.
When should the bunks be inspected?
Spring & Fall are excellent times to inspect the wood structure of the carpeted wood bunks. Wood, being a natural material, can become warped, cracked, or rotten. If you find any soft spots or warping of the wood material, replace the bunk before using it.
For more information on checking & servicing your lift, see https://wisconsinpws.com/lift-cable-maintenance/
Perhaps you’ve purchased a new PWC or boat and want the best bunk for your new purchase, consider ShoreMaster vinyl boat bunks.
Vinyl boat bunks have a strong history.
ShoreMaster has used vinyl boat bunks for boats, PWC’s and pontoons for decades. The vinyl bunks will save you money in the long run because the aluminum channel will never rot or warp like wood. Plus, the vinyl never requires replacement like carpeting does. You’ll also save money and frustration because the vinyl material is less prone to wear than carpet,
Put simply; vinyl boat bunks are far more durable than carpeted bunks. The vinyl material used on ShoreMaster‘s vinyl boat bunks does not promote the adhesion of sand, and debris like carpet can, which means your boat or PWC will stay cleaner, longer.
What about Vinyl boat bunks vs. Cradles?
Full-length vinyl boat bunks offer greater support than cradles. A much longer area is supported. The weight of your watercraft is distributed along the bunk’s length to prevent pressure points where your hull contacts the supports. When you have a choice between cradles, carpeted bunks, and vinyl bunks, you are better off in the long run with the vinyl boat bunks. When it comes to the total cost of ownership and resale value, vinyl boat bunks are the best value.
Vinyl boat bunks are available for all ShoreMaster boat lifts. If you are considering repairing a set of carpeted wood bunks, it may be wise to upgrade to vinyl bunks once and for all.
Always Remember:
Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) specializes in all ShoreMaster accessories for docks and lifts. We are located in the center of Door County at 7325 St Hwy 57 south of Sturgeon Bay at the intersection of Idlewild Road. Our staff looks forward to serving all of your waterfront needs.
In Conclusion
The continued introduction of refinements keeps Shoremaster at the top of the best-in-class list.
Tell Your Friends & Family
Have friends or neighbors you believe should see this article? Email a link to this article – and Thank you!
You can visit Pier & Waterfront Solutions on Facebook also.
Don’t Forget – PWS is the expert when you have a waterfront question!
ARE WE OPEN?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions has remained “open.”
While all this is going on, we are working to maintain the trusted service you expect. That’s important to us.
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.
Call, message, or use this simple request form to get answers and quotes.
Thank you for allowing us to work with you – safely.
Let’s all stay safe!
Sep 1, 2020
What’s new in boat lift winches? Updated
The Whisper winch from ShoreMaster was a significant improvement over other boat lift brand winches in 2018. ShoreMaster continues to be the leader in the Marine industry.
Most boaters were annoyed by the clanking noise generated when they turned the large wheel on their boat lift. That noise disappeared after the introduction of the Whisper winch in 2018.
Then, in 2019, they introduced another refinement – the Whisper Winch II.
This new winch gave you extended cable life by introducing a more substantial diameter drum. Why is this important? Having a 50% increase in winch diameter means there is less internal stress on the cable strands as they wrap around the drum.
The larger drum diameter, in turn, reduced internal chafing in the cable significantly. An added advantage is the galvanizing on the winch cable strands lasts longer.
Typical Cable Stacking
What is cable stacking?
Today, there has been another improvement. The winch drum now has grooves cut into it to guide the cable smoothly around the drum. Cable “stacking” is virtually eliminated.
Without cable “stacking,” the life expectancy of the cable increases. It also means fewer cable “shocks” and abrasion. By “shocks,” we are not referring to an electrical shock.
When a cable begins to stack up along the edges of the drum, it will climb two or more levels. At that point, the cable will slip off the stack, and the boat falls about 1/4 to ½” in an instant. The “falling” results in a thunderous noise which “shocks” the person operating the winch. That doesn’t seem like much movement, but that 1/4″ – ½” can mean a broken cable if it is weak.
The “shock” is dangerous for the cable if the cable is in a weakened state. The cable is free to move, and then all the weight of the falling boat is suddenly applied.
Picture a moving car hitting an immovable object. The “shock” is similar to hitting an unmovable object with a moving one-ton object.
My boat lift cable broke…and I can’t get ….
One moment the boat is free to fall (albeit a short distance), and in the next moment, it snaps to a complete halt. All the pressure is on the cable at that point. Any weaknesses in the cable (rust, broken strands, frayed wires) could mean your boat will end up in the water and not necessarily floating.
With further testing, they realized that the main lifting cable could be changed back to stainless steel on the larger boat lifts. Now, ALL of the cables are stainless steel again.
BUT THAT’S NOT ALL!
There is still one more advantage to the Whisper winch II. In the past, two bolts mounted the winch to the leg post. The bolts meant that if you added a canopy later, the winch must be entirely removed.
Today, the winch clamps in a sleeve that fits snugly around the leg. There is a significant reduction of install time as a result. The clamp also ensures the winch is correctly installed. It can not be misaligned. Misalignment of the winch was easy to do with the winch bolted to the leg. These same bolts contributed to cable stacking also.
In Conclusion
The continued introduction fo these refinements keeps Shoremaster at the top of the best-in-class list.
Tell Your Friends & Family
Have friends or neighbors you believe should see this article? Email a link to this article – and Thank you!
You can visit Pier & Waterfront Solutions on Facebook also.
Don’t Forget – PWS is the expert when you have a waterfront problem!
Where is Pier & Waterfront Solutions?
Located at 7325 St. Hwy 57, we are about 3 miles south of Sturgeon Bay, and 1 mile past the intersection of Cty MM (heading north). Look for the intersection of Idlewild Road and Hwy 57.
ARE WE OPEN?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions has remained “open.”
While all this is going on, we are working to maintain the trusted service you expect. That’s important to us.
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.
Call, message, or use this simple request form to get answers and quotes.
Thank you for allowing us to work with you – safely.
Let’s all stay safe!
Aug 11, 2020
Stress – Even Boat Lifts experience it
Stress – Even boat lifts are under stress – this year more than ever before due to the high waters.
Why? High water increases the stress on your cables.
We’ve previously informed you of the danger to boat lift cables during a storm. If the waves hit the bottom of your boat it will momentarily lift the boat and then allow it to fall back on the rack. What if the cables are weakened by rust and frays? The “bouncing” effect can completely sever a cable into two pieces.
The boat only lifts a fraction of an inch – right?!!
How can that movement harm the cables?
Even though the boat only rises a fraction of an inch, the energy of the “falling” boat must be absorbed by the boat rack. The cables in each corner of the lift must, in turn, absorb the stress of a moving 3-5,000 pound boat.
Having said that, a weakened cable is in imminent danger of breaking. Think of an 80-100 lb jackhammer used to break up concrete. Even reinforced concrete can not withstand the movement of the bit hitting the concrete.
With a boat, you are talking about a potential 5,000 lb weight dropping on a rack compared to an 80-100 lb. weight.
Protect your cables! It only takes a minute or two to protect your cables from rust. It’s simple and easy to do. A convenient link* is provided below so you can learn more about this.
What are the defect warning signs?
There are warning signs of defects in your cables? If your cables look like any of these, it’s time to replace them. Need more information? Here’s an article that addresses this issue.
Always remember – it is possible to have broken strands inside your cable without any exterior signs of damage. This situation is especially true on stainless steel cables which do not rust.
What’s a quick way to reduce the stress on the cables?
At the beginning of the year, we place your boat lift in the requested location. We adjust the height of the legs based on what the current water level is.
Unfortunately, the water has continued to rise this year and that may no longer be suitable for the conditions you have today. Add to this the Seiche waves (pronounced “say-sh”) which are standing waves that form in a confined body of water. The friction of the wind against the surface of the water causes wave action.
As waves move towards the shoreline the water gets shallower and the moving waves rise higher. Standing waves, in general, can form in any type of semi-enclosed or enclosed body of water. When these rising waves hit the bottom of your boat the boat does what it is designed to do – it floats on the water.
Your Lift rack may be too close
The lift rack could be too close to the water to protect your boat with the rising water. As a result, you are not able to raise the boat high enough to keep it above the waves. On the other hand, If the rack is set too high in the water, you may not be able to get your boat on the lift. It’s a delicate balance. The variable is the changing depth of the water.
What can I do?
One way to raise the boat higher is to purchase longer legs and replace the standard lengths with new ones.
A less costly alternative is to simply move your lift closer to shore. It will be in shallower water and save you having to buy longer legs and the labor to install them.
If you keep the standard legs and don’t allow us to place the lift closer to the shore, you are inviting costly repairs or even replacements.
In Conclusion
Get out there and take care of those cables. Check out the link below. Then, consider moving the lift closer to shore.
* Wire Rope Lubrication link.
Tell Your Friends & Family
Have friends or neighbors you believe should see this article? Email them a link to this article – and Thank you!
You can visit Pier & Waterfront Solutions on Facebook also.
Don’t Forget – PWS is the expert when you have a waterfront problem!
Where is Pier & Waterfront Solutions?
Located at 7325 St. Hwy 57, we are about 3 miles south of Sturgeon Bay, and 1 mile past the intersection of Cty MM (heading north). Look for 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. As of Aug 1st, Wisconsin mandates the use of face masks. We also endorse this to slow the spread of Covid-19. It’s the only known method to control the spread at this time.
While all this is going on, we are working to maintain the trusted service you expect. That’s important to us.
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.
When can I see the display yard?
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.
How will I get my estimate?
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 our crews?
Please conduct as much business as possible via emails, messaging, and emails. When you see our crews working in your area, please practice “social distancing.”
Call, message, or use this simple request form to get answers and quotes.
Thank you for allowing us to work with you – safely.
Let’s all stay safe!
Jun 30, 2020
Paddlers, Kayaks & Canoes
Paddlers, kayaks, and canoes are experiencing a growing demand. This means an increased demand for convenient storage units. Storage must be both convenient and safe. Spend more time on the water paddling and less time moving your gear to the water.
Kayak/Canoe Rack
Store your paddleboard, kayak, canoe, wakeboard, and more – right on your dock. These storage racks solve the problem for you.
With the storage racks, you don’t have to carry your equipment down to the beach each time. Why pay for customization when they are readily available from Pier & Waterfront Solutions.
Now available for the new PWS 3-Season Pier too!
Attach a bracket on the perimeter of your dock, and the single or double mounting racks are ready to mount. Your water-sport toys are already at the lake for easy access whenever you want them.
Request a Quote today!
Space-saving
The accessories extend out over the water and off the dock. You aren’t going to sacrifice any of your valuable dock space. It’s a win-win situation – convenience and security.
Dual stand up paddleboard rack
Single and double (shown here) paddleboard rack options are available. The versatile design can accommodate nearly any water-sports equipment.
Mounting plates can go just about anywhere and takes the hassle out of customization. It allows your dock system to evolve as your needs change.
Spend more time enjoying the water and less time carrying your paddleboards around.
Dock Steps
Dock Steps
Now that you chose the accessory you want, its time to gain easy access to your dock. How about steps or a pivoting ladder?
Dock steps are a great addition to any dock system for easy lake access and use. They take up no dock space and are a safe way to access your dock from the water.
The Quick Steps feature a wider step and deeper tread. The Quick Steps are available in a 4-step or 6-step option for deeper water.
Both styles of sets are made of lightweight aluminum. The steps are maintenance-free and built to last. The steps feature handrails for safety, and have wide, ribbed treads, providing a slip-resistant surface.
Paddlers, canoeists, and kayakers will really appreciate these steps.
Request a Quote today!
Ladders
Pivot Ladder
Get in and out of the water quickly with a pivoting or stationary ladder.
A vertical pivoting action and locking pin allow you to flip the ladder up when not in use. At the same time, you ensure stability when you need it the most. The ladders attach just about anywhere along the perimeter of the dock. They take up minimal space allowing for greater access to your dock and the lake.
The aluminum ladders are available in 3, 4, and 5-step options. All-aluminum construction means they are lightweight yet durable and long-lasting. A steel version (fixed position) with 7 steps is also available.
Request a Quote today!
Summary
You can Relax and Enjoy your paddling experience with these beautiful accessories.
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?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions is “open.” 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.
We are implementing these precautionary measures:
1. Conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
2. Site visits will continue but with limited in-person meetings. When in-person contacts are necessary, we 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.
But That’s not all!
4. Some employees are working remotely, but they are always available by phone.
5. Any employee exhibiting symptoms or illness is sent home.
6. We provide estimates and invoices by email to make the process paperless and faster.
7. Crew starting times are being staggered to limit social interactions.
8. We keep the same crews together to limit cross interactions.
With these measures, we hope everyone will stay safe. We want to get back to normal operations soon.
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.”
So, YES – WE ARE OPEN!
Please call, message, or email us with any questions.
Thank you for allowing us to work with you.
Let’s all stay safe!
Contact:
Jerry @ (920) 493-4404 or Jerry@wisconsinpws.com – Commercial work & new/used Sales.
Dave @ (920) 905-2588 or Dave@wisconsinpws.com – Erosion control & shoreline work.
Jerry @ (920) 493-4404 or Jerry@wisconsinpws.com – Scheduling & Service work
Jun 9, 2020
32 STEP CHECKLIST FOR A BOAT
This 32 step checklist for your boat will start your boating season off right.
Do you have spring fever? Are you itching to get your boat or jet skis back in the water? It’s been a L-O-N-G winter. Now it’s time to de-winterize your boat before taking it out for its first trip of the season.
Following a spring checklist, like the one below, can help prevent a host of problems. Skipping them could keep you out of the water later in the season.
We all know how fast storms come up on Green Bay. Don’t get caught unprepared. Make sure the boating season goes smoothly and safely.
HERE’S A SPRING CHECKLIST FOR A BOAT:
- Is your boat registered?
- Be sure to empty the old fuel and add fresh fuel.
- Are the fuel shut-off valves on the tank and at the engine working?
- Is your blower switch (if any)working?
- Recharge your battery and fill with distilled water, if needed.
- Secure the batteries in ventilated containers that are non-corrosive and liquid-tight.
- Fit non-conductive covers over the posts.
- Is the lower-case leak-free?
- Check the electrical system, including fuses, spark plugs, and wires.
- Inspect the propeller for damage.
- Is there any damage to the hull (blisters and cracks)?
- Flush the water tank.
- Replace any oil filters and lubricate all parts.
- Are all lines checked?
- Check the hydraulic steering system for leaks and fluid levels.
- Inspect the steering and throttle cables.
- Are all fire extinguishers charged?
- Is everyone familiar with how to operate them? Make sure that at least one can be reached from the helm or cockpit.
- Are life vests checked for wear, abrasions, weak or torn seams, secure straps, and buckles?
- Inspect the bilge pump, if any, for cleanliness and absence of obstructions. Check this frequently throughout the season.
- Check the engine compartment for excess water.
- Are the lights on your boat operational?
- Check the electrical cables and connections for loose, disconnected, or corroded conductors.
- Have you taken a boating safety course?
NOW YOU’RE READY TO GO.
- If you are towing your trailer to its launch point, you will also need to inspect it before your first outing. In particular, are the lights working properly?
- Be sure to tell someone responsible where you’re going.
READY TO LAUNCH
- Is the drain plug in place? You’d be amazed how often this happens.
- Follow all safe launching practices.
- Watch for kids in your path.
- Ventilate the bilge for several minutes before starting the engine.
- Watch the engine temperature and cooling system.
- Make sure everyone follows safe boating practices.
Now you’ve done the work – It’s time to enjoy the benefits!
Tell Your Friends & Family
Have friends or neighbors you believe should see this article? Email them this link – and Thank you!
Don’t Forget – Considering rip-rap for your shoreline? PWS is the place to contact!
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 is staying “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 implementing these precautionary measures:
- Conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
- Site visits will continue but with limited in-person meetings.
- 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.
Is there More?
- Some employees will be working remotely, but they are always available by phone.
- Any employee with symptoms or illness is sent home.
- We continue to provide estimates and invoices by email to make the process paperless.
- Crew starting times are being staggered to limit social interactions.
- We keep the same crews together to limit cross interactions.
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. This step protects everyone involved.
- When you see our crews installing equipment, please practice “social distancing.”
Thank you for allowing us to work with you.
So – YES – WE ARE OPEN!
Please call, message, or email us with any questions.
Let’s all stay safe!
Contact:
Jerry @ (920) 493-4404 or Jerry@wisconsinpws.com – Commercial work & new/used Sales.
Dave @ (920) 905-2588 or Dave@wisconsinpws.com – Erosion control & shoreline work.
Jerry @ (920) 493-4404 or Jerry@wisconsinpws.com – Scheduling & Service work
