Dec 16, 2025
Winterizing piers and waterfront property require specific preparation to protect against severe cold, heavy ice formation, and fluctuating water levels. The fundamental methods involve removing or securing movable structures and implementing ice management systems for permanent installations. General maintenance and evaluation of damage sustained to piers during the boating season should also be addressed prior winter.
Ice Shove
We understand that it may be inconvenient to work around the stored pier. There may be brown grass spots under the footpads in Spring. However, nature recovers quickly. That is not true for your pier.
General Preparation
Dock Inspection and Repairs: Before winter, thoroughly inspect all components (pilings, decking, hardware, electrical) for existing damage. Schedule repairs to prevent further damage from snow and ice melt.
Pier & Waterfront Solutions service crews have the ability to make repairs on all brands of docks and boat lifts.
Remove Accessories: Disassemble and store all removable items on dry land. This includes ladders, ramps, benches, boat lifts (if possible), storage bins, and furniture.
Utilities: Disconnect and blow out any water lines to prevent freezing and bursting. Remove power sources to non-weatherproof outlets and turn off breakers. Inspect cords and junction boxes for damage.
Pier and Dock Specific Measures
The winterizing approach depends heavily on whether you have a permanent pier, a three-season pier, or a floating dock system.
Permanent Piers
Accommodate Water Levels: Lake and river water levels can fluctuate. Ensure that the fixed structure is designed to handle potential changes. Reduced water levels might leave supports exposed or strained. High water can lead to excessive ice buildup.
Ice Management: Fixed pilings are highly vulnerable to “ice-jacking.” Pier ice-jacking refers to the upward force exerted by freezing ice on dock pilings or other piers when water levels fluctuate, causing them to be lifted out of their foundations. This phenomenon is caused by rising and falling water levels, and it can lead to significant damage to docks and other structures. The best way to prevent this is to maintain an ice-free zone around the structure. Installing a dock de-icer or bubbler system is recommended to keep water moving around pilings and the structure, preventing solid ice formation in critical areas.
Monitor Ice and Snow Load: Fixed docks bear the full weight of ice and snow accumulation. Regularly remove excessive ice and snow to prevent structural overload.
Three Season Piers
Three season piers installed by Pier & Waterfront Solutions are removed in the fall and reinstalled in the spring. We recommend that you allow us to place your equipment further up on your property due to the possibility for substantial damage encountered in the spring due to ice shoves.
Improper storage too close to the water Proper storage further from the water
Floating Docks
Removal is Best: For floating docks, the safest and most effective method is often to completely remove the sections from the water and store them on dry land. This eliminates the risk of ice damage altogether.
If Left In: If removal is not feasible, floating piers need to be disconnected from shore and allowed to move in the ice. They must be securely anchored with extra slack in the lines to accommodate shifting water levels and ice movement. Monitor the dock during winter, especially after severe weather events or rapid temperature changes, as fluctuating water levels and ice pressure can quickly cause damage.
Bubblers use an air compressor to create a curtain of bubbles and are more energy-efficient and effective in shallow water.
Propeller deicers use a submerged propeller to draw warmer water up to the surface, which is more effective in deeper water.
Boat Lifts and Equipment
Raise and Disconnect: Raise the boat lift cradle completely out of the water.
Lubricate and Secure: Lubricate all moving parts with marine-safe grease. Remove the power source and secure all lines.
Boat lifts have many of the same requirements as piers depending, if they are permanent or seasonal. Bubblers and deicers do the same thing but are very different products that can be used for piers and piles or lifts.
Consult with Pier & Waterfront Solutions for service and specific advice for winterizing your Pier and waterfront.
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.
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!
Jun 1, 2021
Choice –by any name = Pier & Waterfront Solutions
Pier & Waterfront Solutions offers more dock choices than any Door County dock dealer. Most dealers offer a limited choice of aluminum docks or possibly a lightweight steel dock. Aluminum is popular because it is lightweight and easier to handle. But are they always the best choice for you?
Let’s look at the overall picture.
Pier & Waterfront Solutions is your exclusive ShoreMaster dealer on the Door County peninsula. ShoreMaster offers (5) aluminum dock frame styles. These include configurations for roll-in, stationary, and floating docks.
Now that’s a selection worth investigating!
In general, all ShoreMaster docks are made from the heaviest aluminum materials. In fact, they are almost twice as heavy as other brands. ShoreMaster dock frames are the strongest aluminum frames made. That’s why they hold up so well on the Bay. They are unmatched in quality and have a 15-year structural warranty.
Here is a comparison of the dock choices PWS offers and why they are so popular:
RS 4 –
ShoreMaster RS4 features a 4″ side rail, 10′ and 12′ lengths. There are seven types of decking available. You can use 5-sided aluminum or round steel legs. It’s ideal for calm waters on an inland lake or a sheltered area on the Bay.
RS 4 Curved –
RS4 Curved dock
The RS4 Curved dock is built to the same rigorous specs as the RS 4 shown above. What’s different is the availability of 45 – degree and 90 – degree curved sections.
These curved sections allow for more configurations than anyone else offers. (Hint – You can use curved sections with ANY ShoreMaster dock frame to genuinely make your dock unique.
RS7*
Features a 7″ side rail system. Available in 8′ and 16′ sections. Ideal for rough waters in an open area.
ShoreMaster RS7 and RS4 curved dock RS7 Dock
TS9 Dock frame with Flow -Through decking
TS9*
Uses a 9″ Truss construction side frame. 8′ and 16′ sections are available. Use with 5-sided aluminum legs or steel legs— ideal for rough waters and most open areas.
FTS9 –
The FTS9 has the identical construction of the TS9 in all respects. The frames have floats attached and are ideal for soft muddy bottoms.
Even MORE Choices
There are nine different types of decking available for the ShoreMaster frames shown above.
Poly Dock – http://polydockproducts.com/
PolyDock floating dock
Poly Dock is a modular dock design made of rotationally molded polyethylene. This floating dock does not have the unsightly black floats.
Poly Dock is a floating dock system that can withstand up to 2′ waves. It’s ideal for inland lakes or rivers with muddy bottoms and large water fluctuations.
Is aluminum the best choice on the Bay?
Aluminum dock frames may not always be the best dock solution with the current high water and heavy storms. Even though water levels are down this year, they are still above average by 14″.
Is there another choice?
3-Seasons Pier on Lake Michigan
PWS now offers the Exclusive all galvanized steel 3-Season Pier.
The 3-Season Pier meets PWS‘s demanding specifications for strength and durability. It’s a one-of-a-kind dock.
The frames weigh over a quarter ton without the oversized steel legs and decking. 3-Season piers withstand just about everything Mother Nature can throw at it. No Wisconsin manufacturer builds a heavier frame.
Gray Decking
Speaking of decking, PWS recommends flow-through decking for the 3- Season pier. This type of decking relieves most of the upward pressure caused by a storm’s high waves.
Is the 3 – Season Pier just another steel dock?
PWS was not willing to build just any steel dock. It had to meet their strict standards – or – PWS would not put their name on it. It is our fastest growing product.
Who installs the 3-Season Pier?
PWS installs everything we offer. Our unique ATF’s and the 40′ barge with the 60′ crane make the job look easy.
Now you know why Pier & Waterfront Solutions is so popular. We offer everything you need for your dock or lift.
Contact us TODAY!
To Summarize
Pier & Waterfront Solutions has the most dock choices from any manufacturer.
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 beginning to wane. We can only hope people will continue to get the vaccine to help slow this illness. We continue to conduct as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
Site visits continue as usual. When making in-person contacts, we follow “social distancing” guidelines when possible.
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.
