Oct 9, 2025
Waterfront steps and stairs are a valuable property addition.
Waterfront steps and stairs are a valuable property addition because they provide safe, convenient water access while controlling erosion, enhancing aesthetics, and significantly boosting property value. They transform a “water-view” property into a functional waterfront escape, allowing you to get the most out of your investment.
Safety and accessibility for all ages
A well-built stairway is a crucial safety feature for properties with sloped or uneven shorelines.
- Prevent slips and falls: Steep, makeshift paths can be a significant hazard, especially when wet from rain or splashes. A constructed stairway with handrails provides a secure, non-slip path, reducing the risk of injury.
- Assists individuals who struggle with uneven terrain: Steps and handrails offer safe and easy access for children, seniors, and anyone with mobility challenges, ensuring everyone can enjoy the water safely.
Erosion control and environmental protection
For many waterfront properties, steps and stairs are a key measure for preserving the shoreline.
- Control shoreline erosion: Uncontrolled foot traffic on a natural slope can destroy sensitive coastal vegetation and lead to significant soil erosion over time. Steps direct foot traffic along a designated pathway, minimizing the impact on the landscape.
- Preserve natural habitats: By protecting vegetation and sand dunes from foot traffic, stairs help preserve the natural ecosystem and maintain the ecological balance of the shoreline environment.
- Stabilize bluffs and hillsides: For properties on steep slopes, specialized systems on the hillside can use strategically placed anchors and cables to support the stairway, which in turn helps stabilize the soil and control erosion underneath the structure.
Increased property value and marketability
Waterfront property with easy and functional water access is significantly more valuable than one with just a water view.
- Increase resale value: High-quality waterfront steps and stairs are considered a valuable asset that can boost your property’s market price. Some experts estimate that improvements like these can increase a property’s value by 10 – 30%.
- Attract buyers: In a competitive real estate market, turn-key properties with functional water access sell faster and for a higher price than those requiring extensive work after purchase.
Enhanced aesthetics and enjoyment
Beyond practical function, a thoughtfully designed stairway can elevate the beauty and enjoyment of your property.
- Elevate curb appeal: Integrating waterfront steps into your landscape with high-quality materials creates a polished, aesthetically pleasing look that enhances the overall beauty of your property.
- Expand your living space: A well-designed stairway can include landings or terraced areas, creating functional and inviting outdoor spaces for relaxing and entertaining.
- Maximize recreational use: By making the water’s edge easy to reach, you and your family are more likely to enjoy activities like swimming, kayaking, or simply taking a morning stroll along the shore.
Considerations before building
Before adding steps, you must research local regulations, as waterfront construction is often subject to a strict permitting process. Depending on your location and project, you may need to consult with your:
- Local or county zoning authority
- State Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Waterfront steps and stairs enhance property value, safety, and convenience by providing access to your dock or beach. Consideration of materials may include non-slip treads, sturdy handrails, and proper drainage to prevent pooling. Addressing local building codes and developing aesthetic appeal will ensure a functional and attractive solution for enjoying your waterfront property.
Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) can design, build and install your waterfront steps and stairs. A call requesting a visit from PWS is the beginning to the transforming of your waterfront property. With PWS you’ll have more time to enjoy those great Wisconsin summers and view those spectacular waterfront sunsets.
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.
Jun 5, 2025
If you live or work near the water, you know how unpredictable the weather can be. One day it’s calm and sunny, then suddenly, a storm rolls in. When that happens, your dock can take a big hit if it’s not ready. Extreme weather preparation isn’t just about playing it safe. It’s about protecting your dock, your boats, and everything else that depends on it. Whether you’re a homeowner, marina manager, or business owner, getting your dock ready ahead of time can save you stress, time, and money.
Why Extreme Weather Preparation Matters
Docks are tough, but they are still exposed to the elements. Heavy winds, rising water, and rough waves can cause serious damage, especially if your dock isn’t built to handle those conditions.
Here’s what can happen when a big storm hits a dock that isn’t prepared:
- Decking can break or come loose
- Hardware can snap
- Docks can drift or flip
- Pilings can weaken
- You could lose boats, gear, and equipment
Taking steps now can help avoid big problems later.
How to Prepare Your Dock for Bad Weather
When it comes to extreme weather, your dock should be near the top of the list of preparations. Getting ready before a storm hits can prevent costly damage. The good news is, preparing your dock doesn’t have to be difficult. With a little time and the right steps, you can help make sure your dock stays safe and secure even during the roughest conditions.
Take these steps:
- Check Everything Over
The first step is simple: give your dock a close look. Walk along the entire surface and check all the main components. Think of this as a routine check-up. Your dock needs regular inspections.
What to look for on your free-standing dock.
- Bolts and fasteners: Make sure they’re tight, not rusted, and not missing. Loose or corroded bolts can cause parts of the dock to come apart under pressure from waves or wind.
- Deck boards: Check for cracks, warping, or signs of rot. Damaged boards are more likely to break in a storm and can be a safety hazard.
- Anchoring lines or pilings: Your dock needs to stay in place, even if the water gets choppy. Make sure anchor lines are strong and not frayed. Pilings should be secure and not leaning.
- Make sure all legs are in contact with the lake bed.
- The deck Height above water is adequate for waves.
- To avoid damage to water craft, make sure the lift is fully up and not set too high.
What if you find damage?
Don’t wait. Even small problems can turn into major issues during a storm. Replace damaged parts right away. If you’re not sure how serious something is, it’s better to be cautious and talk to a professional dock builder or maintenance expert. Pier & Waterfront Solutions can help you repair or replace damaged docks.
- Clear the Area
The next step in extreme weather preparation is to remove anything that could fly away or get tossed around during high winds or heavy rain.
What should be taken off the dock?
- Chairs, benches, or tables (unless fastened to dock)
- Dock boxes or storage bins (unless fastened to dock)
- Coolers, tools, or cleaning supplies
- Fishing gear, life jackets, or water toys
Even items that seem heavy can be moved by strong winds or waves. Once something is airborne, it becomes a hazard. It could damage your dock, nearby boats, or other people’s property.
What should stay?
Only items that are securely bolted down and weather-resistant should remain. If you’re unsure, it’s better to remove it. If you have valuable items, store them inside where they’ll be safe from wind and water.
- Secure Your Floating Dock
Floating Docks offer advantage during storms. They rise and fall with changing water levels, but they still need to be secured properly to prevent drifting, flipping, or crashing into other structures.
How do you secure a floating dock before a storm?
- Floats or support systems: Check the flotation system. Look for any signs of wear or damage. If one float fails, it can throw off the balance of the entire dock.
- Check the anchors: Your dock should have a strong anchoring system, whether it’s chain, cable, or piling-based. Look for signs of wear and rust. Tighten or replace hardware as needed.
- Inspect the guide poles or slides: These help keep your dock in place while allowing it to move up and down with the water. Make sure they’re not bent or damaged.
- Allow for movement: Don’t tie your dock too tightly. If the water level rises, the dock needs space to float upward. Too much tension can snap lines or damage the dock.
- Secure attachments: If you have ramps, gangways, or other attachments, make sure they are reinforced and can flex with the dock’s movement. These connecting points are often where damage starts.
Pier & Waterfront Solutions builds standing and floating products that are built to last. All of our systems are made in the USA and designed to fit your exact needs, whether it’s for a private home, a public marina, or a government project. We believe that a dock should be more than functional. It should be safe, sturdy, and ready for anything.
Click here to explore Pier & Waterfront Solutions. We’re here to help you get your dock ready, rain or shine!
Sep 14, 2021
Are you a Pro with a Pontoon Boat?
Pontoon boats are a relaxing way to enjoy boating any season of the year.
It’s Fall, and there are still days when you will wish you could be out on a pontoon boat. It might be a little cooler, but after the hot summer, it will be refreshing.
Pontoon Boats are unique
Pontoon boats have their own style with many amenities available. These boats are different in many ways from a normal powerboat. Handling them is another animal to tackle. Check out this article to get the most use of your pontoon boat.
Docking and Undocking
Pontoon boats leave the dock like any other vessel on the water. Yet, their body shape creates more surface area for the wind to push around. It amounts to a “giant sail.”, the tubes and vertical fences found around the deck act as a sail.
Adding to that difficulty are the boat tubes, which provide your floatation. Large gusts of wind are your mortal enemy. They can knock you off course on the water. The ability to push your pontoon into other boats means you need to know how to handle a pontoon boat. Plus, you must have stellar insurance coverage. SEE
To counter the winds, you have to be aware of them at all times. The pontoon boat’s secret is its exceptional control when used with short bursts of power. Regardless of what type of boat you use, idle the engine and point the motor in the direction you want to go. Then shift into gear. Next, use short bursts of power as you steer the boat. Before you know it, you’ll be out of the dock.
You’ll use the same understanding of the wind and maneuvers when heading back into the marina. Docking any powerboat (pontoons included) requires a little more side-to-side motion. You can learn more about these actions via this link.
Beaching
Beaching or mooring your boat to swim is half the fun of boating, no matter what type of vessel you own. People love beaching their boats to explore islands or soak up the sun. Luckily, both are simple processes and the same for every type of powerboat.
Start by traveling slow when you hit shallow waters, so you don’t damage your motor. Beaching requires you to push the front end of your vessel onto land. Do this carefully to prevent damage to the tubes.
Don’t head onto the beach too far; allow enough room to spin the boat around out into the water using the motor.
For mooring, make sure you have the proper tools to secure your boat via the anchor. Pontoon boats are more buoyant, so use fenders to protect your boat from other vessels.
Turning and Handling
Pontoon boats soar across the water, which makes handling them a ton of fun. Before you lose yourself in the moment, remember that there are no lanes out on the water. Always check your surroundings before making a turn or spinning your boat around.
With that safety tip in mind, you’re ready to tackle the water. Pontoon boats are very stable. You don’t have to worry about flipping or rolling the boat over in normal conditions.
But rough waves and tight turns mean you can’t rule out the possibility. Still, it isn’t much of a concern for the modern pontoon boat.
You do have to worry about causing the propeller to leave the water when making a tight turn. You can either back off of the turn, deaccelerate or trim the engine downwards to remedy the issue. When making sharp turns, equipment and people on your deck are likely to be tossed to one side depending on the speed. Do they have life preservers?
Acceleration
Once you hit open waters, you’re ready to pick up speed. Don’t treat your pontoon boat like a race car, though. Instead, speed up steadily until you reach your desired speed. Keep in mind that the bow will level out, which means you’ll need to trim the engine if you want more speed.
Your engine might rise too far out of the water as you speed up. That’s normal and easy to fix by trimming the motor. Your boat may slow down, and you’ll hear a howling sound near the propeller. Or, the boat will lose a little stabilization when this happens.
Keep in mind that every boat comes with a manufacturer’s recommendation for top speeds or RPM. Most recommend 75% of fully open throttle. It helps to read up on this statistic before pushing your boat to its limits. Use less throttle for more fuel efficiency.
Keep in mind that more crowded waters demand slower speeds. There are rarely legal speed limits on open water, so be mindful of other boaters in the area. Keep an eye out for swimmers as you approach other boats or the shoreline.
Stability Tips in Rough Waters
A pontoon boat handles well, even in rough water, thanks to its dual or triple hull design. Yet, even with the added help, you need to drive a pontoon boat carefully in these conditions.
Experienced boaters recommended that you keep an even load on board. To do this, you must include both objects and passengers. When rough waters arise, make sure your passengers know to even out their weight on deck and sit down. Don’t forget to make them wear life preservers for their safety. The larger your boat, the easier this is to maintain.
Try to avoid heading straight into giant waves. Excessive splashing could damage the electronics in your boat if they take on water. If you must head nose-first into oncoming waves, trim the engine down to help keep the boat’s nose/bow upward. Otherwise, take the waves at a 30 to 40-degree angle.
Finally, sports handling packages are an enormous benefit here. These include better nosecones, power-assisted steering, and higher horsepower to combat choppy waters.
Become a Pro
Pontoon Boat Lift
That means don’t head out onto the water when you know a storm is on the way. A pontoon boat is an investment you don’t want to risk for a few more minutes of fun. If inclement weather strikes, head back to the dock and put your boat back on your lift.
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).
For your protection 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.
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!
Sep 7, 2021
SUMMER HAS ENDED
Summer for many people has ended. It’s a sad time for many people. People are heading home. Many families have to get back for school for the kids and can only come back on weekends. Still, there will be some great days left this Fall.
Many of our customers are from out of state. In fact, we have customers from almost ALL the United States. They return each year to enjoy some of our great Wisconsin weather. The size of the crowds will begin going down after Labor Day.
Have no FEAR! Spring is just a couple of months away!
But still, it’s a sad time for many people. Our Chicago and Minnesota customers are among the saddest at this time of the year. Why? They face another year of being defeated by the Packers.
Who else faces problems at this time of the year?
Another group is people with storm-damaged equipment. The Fall storms get stronger in September and October. That’s why we move as fast as we can to get to your location to safeguard your equipment by removing them for the year. The freezing water doesn’t help either.
If you have damage to your equipment please call Jerry @ 920-493-4404.
Not using your docks and lifts anymore this year?
It’s a good idea to drop Keri, our Service Manager, a line letting her know you are ready to be removed. Give her a date when your canopy will be down and your boat stored for the year. Email your message to Keri@wisconsinpws.com. She will put you on the schedule.
It’s particularly tough this year for our crews. One of the dealers in Door County closed expectantly before Memorial Day. Our teams will be working longer hours to adjust to the influx of new customers. As the days get shorter, they will be working by their headlights to meet the schedule.
Four things you should know about fall storms:
- PWS will assist you if a storm damages your equipment. We prepare Free estimates to cover your damage. Insurance companies then use the estimates to prepare a settlement for you.
- We recommend you read this article before talking to the insurance company. Take pictures of all the damage. The more images, the better.
- PWS can also salvage your equipment and make winter repairs, so you are ready to go in Spring.
- PWS will move your equipment to another location if you sold it or bought another property.
PROPERTY DAMAGE?
Shoreline Erosion
Do you have property damage, eroded beaches, and lawns? Don’t forget, Pier and Waterfront Solutions has a complete rip rap service available. We’ll have your shoreline repaired for Spring.
Call DAVE at 920-905-2588 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!
