Dec 8, 2020
Does High Water require the 3-Season Pier?
High water over the dock
High water continued again in 2020 and many people looked for a stronger, more durable pier for 2021.
After 2 years of design improvements, the 3-Season Pier was introduced in 2020. It was a hit and sold out quickly.
Looking for a new pier?
In the early part of the 2020 boating season, the number of washed-out docks increased substantially. Storms raged throughout the boating season.
There are many brands of docks on the “Bay”. Every brand was represented in the list of docks & piers damaged or destroyed this year. That is, except the 3-season pier. It also withstood the Lake Michigan turbulent waters.
High water and debris
During 2020, many people saw floating debris during and after the storms. The debris moved along the shoreline. In some cases, uprooted trees and logs were responsible for taking out docks and lifts. The debris continued to move long distances before it finally settled on the shore again.
Now, we don’t represent that a 3-Season Pier will completely stop damage like that. But there is a much better chance of a 1/4 ton pier (per section) with 2″ galvanized steel legs (2-3/8″ O.D.) withstanding the force of the waves. Compare that to the 1-1/2″ leg (1-7/8″ O.D.) used on lesser, lighter docks.
Why did high water prompt a new design?
Over the years, PWS realized that having strong steel legs was not enough for the current situation. We watched helplessly as the waves lifted the dock sections. When the dock section came down, they seldom came down evenly or level.
As waves battered the bottom of the pier, it twisted the dock frames and caused the legs to bend sideways as the dock comes down.
Once the legs bent, the entire structure was subject to rolling over. There had to be a way to reduce the pressure on the docks.
We quickly realized that solid decking was our worst enemy. With solid decking bolted to the frames, the full force of the waves had to be absorbed by the dock.
After research, we found that a deck that allows the water to flow through the decking was the best possible answer. We quickly introduced the ShoreMaster Glacier™ flow-through, open decking on our aluminum piers.
Sunwalk Decking
High water requires Sunwalk Decking™
When the galvanized steel, 3-Season Pier, was introduced, it included Sunwalk™ decking. After securing the decking to the frames with stainless steel screws, the 45% open area allowed most of the energy of the water to flow through the deck harmlessly.
Combining the 1/4 ton weight per 20′ section with a 45% open decking, and you have a winning combination.
Higher Water needed Longer Ramps too!
However, we did not stop there. We also realized that the piers had to be set high to reduce the number of times the waves could hit the decking. This created a problem. The short ramps going to the pier were too steep for people to comfortably walk up.
We designed a 20′ long ramp, thus making a gentle approach to the pier. The shore end includes built-in leg pockets to raise the ramp off the beach. These added legs allow any waves that get to the end to pass harmlessly under the frames.
When should I start looking for a new pier?
Now is an excellent time to research the features of the 3-Season pier and place a preseason order. It’ll be ready when you are in Spring. Don’t forget, we can take trades, too.
The exclusive 3-Season Pier is available only at Pier & Waterfront Solutions.
Conclusion
PWS has the best solution for your 2021 dock.
Call Jerry at Pier & Waterfront Solutions (920-493-4404) for more information.
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 at the intersection of Idlewild Road and Hwy 57.
ARE WE OPEN?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “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 you expect.
Please use face masks
Because the virus has increased its spread, PWS is conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
Site visits continue as usual. When in-person contacts are necessary, we follow “social distancing” guidelines as closely as possible.
Display yard – OPEN
Our display yard is always open for you to examine at your leisure. All displays available for sale have a numbered, red tag on them. If you want more information or pricing, please reference that number when you call.
We provide estimates and quotes by email to make the process paperless, faster, and safer. Everyone should feel safe with these measures. Let’s get back to normal operations quickly.
What can YOU do?
Please conduct as much business as possible via emails, messaging, and phone. When you see our crews on-site, please practice “social distancing.”
Call, message, or email us with any questions.
Thank you for allowing us to work with you safely.
Let’s all stay safe!
Jul 21, 2020
Dockside Basketball Hoop
A basketball hoop is the latest addition to the ShoreMaster and Pier & Waterfront Solutions line of accessories. Take the game off the hot court and put it in the water with a dockside Basketball Hoop. Imagine the summer fun (and exercise) your family will enjoy. Just add the basketball and start the fun.
This summer has seen high humidity and temperatures. It isn’t easy to get the exercise the kids and adults, need. With many people isolating themselves during the pandemic, this is an excellent way to stay cool and get your workout at the same time.
ShoreMaster Dockside Basketball Hoop
Basketball Hoop
The backboard measures 44″ x 30″ for easy bank shots. Like most ShoreMaster dock accessories, the dockside Basketball hoop utilizes the Infinity Track accessory system. You can easily attach and reattach it anywhere along the perimeter of the dock system. For more information on the Infinity track system, see this article.
The basketball hoop includes a 5′ post, which mounts easily to the side of the dock. (Non-ShoreMaster docks may need a simple adaptor plate.)
The basketball hoop features an 18″ diameter rim. With a waterproof nylon net, the basketball hoop is sure to provide seasons of fun.
Your family will have one more attraction this summer to keep them occupied. There is no reason to get bored.
Visit Pier & Waterfront Solutions on Facebook also.
Remember, Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) specializes in Waterfront Solutions for docks and lifts.
For more information, contact Jerry @ (920) 493-4404 TODAY– or – fill out this simple quote request form.
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 intersection of Idlewild Road and Hwy 57.
ARE WE OPEN?
During this time of uncertainty, Pier & Waterfront Solutions has stayed “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 you expect.
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 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.
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 us?
Please conduct as much business as possible via emails, messaging, and emails. When you see our crews installing equipment, please practice “social distancing.”
Please call, message, or email us with any questions.
Thank you for allowing us to work with you.
Let’s all stay safe!
Jul 7, 2020
Do I need a new dock?
Do I NEED A NEW DOCK?
Docks that are several years old will show some signs of wear. It might be the decking, or it could be the frames. Either way, your dock needs yearly inspections. It’s especially true this year.
Why? You guessed it – the storms. At least two things are happening. Record-setting water levels mean the waves can dislodge trees, logs, and other floating objects that have been sitting dormant on the shore for years. They get washed along the beaches and could hit your dock or boat lift during a storm.
Other docks or decking from your neighbors’ pier can be washed out too. That debris could also hit your dock. Don’t forget about the jet skis and boats that get dislodged in the significant storms.
How many times does it take to cause damage to a dock or boat lift?
Dock damage
Once could be enough. Imagine a boat or log floating under your dock or into your boat lift. The next wave pushes it up against the bottom of your dock or lift. With the wood hung up under the frames, they get twisted by the waves. Here’s the result.
Is the hardware still holding tight?
At one point, at least one manufacturer’s decking was glued and stapled. This decking did not have enough support under the decking, either. The constant flexing of the panels and the natural wood shrinkage meant the staples loosened, and the glue let go.
Consider replacing a wooden decked pier with a different material. If the frames are sound, you may be able to use the Flow-through decking options.
Flow-Through decking is considered the best decking available. For more information, click HERE.
What about the frames?
Is your dock frame bent?
How much wear and tear is the question. Proper maintenance of a dock system can help keep it looking beautiful for a long time. Some types of damage are easily repaired. Others need a lot of work.
But, if your dock is getting dangerous and unreliable, replacement might be the best option. Here are some more signs that you should think about investing in a brand new dock.
Widespread Rust
Do I need a new dock?
Certain types of metal used around water will rust. Painted, and even powder-coated metals will need regular upkeep to keep ahead of the rust.
Large areas of rust will spread. They eat away at the dock frames. If the metal rusts through, it can cause breakage in other areas too.
In cases like this, a completely new dock might be necessary.
Aluminum docks are made of rustproof metal and are a great option when considering upgrading or replacing a failing dock.
Have wood – will rot, Discolor, Split … You get the point!
Wooden docks can rot when water seeps into the wood. Moss, mildew, algae, and other growth can trap moisture in the wood decking, worsening the situation. However, it can be solved or prevented by keeping your dock clean and well maintained.
If a small area is experiencing rot, replace the individual components with new, treated lumber. But, when multiple areas are rotting, it’s time to replace your dock.
Consider replacing a wooden pier with different materials, including aluminum painted to look like wood, which is one of the premium ShoreMaster decking options.
Cracked or Warping Dock Supports
Has any boat come in “hot” (too fast) and hit the frames or vertical supports? Maybe a wave pushed your boat faster than expected or in the wrong direction. Accidents happen!
While the damage may appear only superficial, it’s essential to check all the welds in the immediate area.
Don’t let this type of damage go unattended. With the current rash of storms and high water, this type of damage can quickly become critical.
Minor cracks in small areas may require welding or the replacement of some parts. If major load-bearing areas have significant damage, it’s better to stay safe and replace the structure.
Can a permanent dock be damaged?
Permanent docks sit on large pipes or underdeck support systems. Assessing the damage below the waterline, let alone repairing it, requires specialized equipment.
Dock foundations are subject to:
- Water movement,
- Changing temperatures,
- Currents,
- Ice movement, and
- Other factors that can cause foundation shifts and severe damage.
Cracking is a sign that further investigation and possibly replacement of your docking system will be needed.
Posts Can’t Be Set Properly?
Permanent boat docking systems have supports to hold them up. In some instances, the support pipes must be driven up to 100 feet deep at times to find the solid rock. Even then, winter ice can grip the outside of the post and raise it again.
If the ice raises your posts, it might be time to replace your dock. Look into a floating aluminum or steel dock that adapts to fluctuating water conditions. This type of dock can be removed in winter or protected by a “de-icer” system. The “de-icer” system prevents the ice from locking onto the pipes and being drawn back up.
Custom Docking Systems – Pier & Waterfront Solutions
If it’s time to replace or upgrade your boat docking system, PWS can help. We are the experts in the waterfront business. We have helped many shoreline owners find their perfect waterfront solution – it’s written right into our name.
Did you know PWS has new and used aluminum or steel docks and lifts available? We also have the New 3-Season Pier (steel) for the roughest of waters.
Need an entirely new aluminum dock system or the perfect accessory? Pier & Waterfront Solutions has a support team that can help.
Remember, Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) specializes in Waterfront Solutions for docks and lifts.
For more information and what works best for your area, contact Jerry @ (920) 493-4404 TODAY – or – fill out this simple quote request form.
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 has stayed “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 conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone. Site visits will continue as usual. 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.
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 us?
Please conduct as much business as possible via emails, messaging, and emails. When you see our crews installing equipment, please practice “social distancing.”
Please call, message, or email us with any questions.
Thank you for allowing us to work with you.
Let’s all stay safe!
