Apr 6, 2021
The best dock selection in Door County
Pier & Waterfront Solutions customers have access to the best dock selection, more dock styles and more materials than any other Door County dealer.
Most dealers offer only aluminum docks or a few lightweight steel dock. Some even offer one or two brands.
Aluminum is popular because it is lightweight and easier to handle.
Who has the best aluminum dock in Door County?
Pier & waterfront Solutions offers (6) ShoreMaster aluminum constructions – in roll-in, stationary, and floating docks.
Now that’s a some dock selection!
Here is a comparison of the aluminum constructions offered:
RS 4 –
4″ side rails. 10′ sections, seven types of decking, aluminum or steel legs. Ideal for calm waters on an inland lake or sheltered area.
RS 4 Curved –
The RS4 Curved dock sections are built the same as the same rigorous specs as the RS 4 shown above. Why is this different? The availability of 45- degree and 90-degree curved sections. These curved sections allow for many configurations that no one else offers. (Hint – You can use curved sections with the ANY ShoreMaster dock frame to genuinely make your dock unique.
RS7*
7″ side rails. 8′ and 16′ sections, with seven types of decking, aluminum or steel legs. Ideal for the rough waters in an open area.
TS9*
9″ Truss side frames. 8′ and 16′ sections, seven types of decking, aluminum or steel legs. Ideal for the rough waters in 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.
Poly Dock –
Poly Dock is a modular dock design made of rotationally molded polyethylene. There are NO unsightly black floats used.
It’s a floating dock system that can withstand up to 2′ waves, making it ideal for inland lakes or rivers with muddy bottoms and large water fluctuations.
Over the years, PWS provided hundreds of ShoreMaster aluminum docks, but it is not always the best solution for all shorelines.
What other dock selection is available?
With the high water and intense storms we have experienced in recent years, PWS now offers the exclusive
3-Season Pier
3-Season Pier
The 3-Season steel pier is built to demanding specifications for strength and durability.
3-Season piers have withstood just about everything Mother Nature can throw at it. No Wisconsin manufacturer builds a heavier frame section. It weighs over a quarter ton without the oversized steel legs.
PWS recommends flow-through decking for the 3-Season pier. Flow-through decking relieves any upward pressure caused by a storm’s high waves.
PWS installs everything we sell.
Now you know why Pier & Waterfront Solutions is so popular.
We offer everything you need for your dock or lift. Contact us TODAY!
Where can I 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 next corner – Idlewild Road and Hwy 57.
Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “open” year-round.
The Covid-19 virus continues to spread and affects many people. We are conducting 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.
* Combine the RS4 Curved sections with this frame for a unique design.
Mar 30, 2021
Small barge for PWS
A small Barge is the latest piece of equipment in the Pier & Waterfront Solutions list of tools. No, this is not the same piece of equipment announced last week.
What’s 12′ x 40′?
Our new small barge!
Powered by dual 225 HP engines, the small barge has a moveable 60′ Knuckle Boom. A Semi tractor and trailer deliver the equipment to the launch site and unloads it. The barge then moves under power to the job sites. No pusher boat required.
Small Barge
The small barge is currently undergoing retrofitting. However, it will be ready in time for the install season. Due to space limitations, we were unable to get a better picture for this article.
What’s unique about this latest equipment?
The knuckle boom folds into a compact package on the deck for traveling. The small barge can get in closer to the shoreline.
Four downriggers on the barge fold flat on the deck for transport. Once at the job site, one or more of the downriggers raise vertically and lock in place. The legs are then extended down to the lake bottom to raise and stabilize the barge on the 3′ x 3′ pads.
A rail system built into the barge deck makes it possible for the crane to move forward or backward on the barge. Once in the proper position, the boom extends up to 60′ to pick equipment off the shoreline. No All-Terrain-Forklift required.
Next, the boom with the dock or lift on it rotates around and places the pier or lift where it’s needed.
There will be no need to drive across your lawn on sites when using the small barge.
Where is 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 road MM (heading north). Look on the right at the next corner – Idlewild Road and Hwy 57.
Is PWS OPEN?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “open” year-round.
Please use face masks
The Covid virus continues to spread and affects many people. Don’t be one of them.
PWS is conducting 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
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.
Red Tag
PWS will provide estimates by email to make the process faster, safer, and paperless.
Call, message, or email us today with any questions.
Call Jerry at 920-493-4404 for more information or use this link.
Mar 23, 2021
A NEW Barge Announcement at PWS
Before we get into the new barge discussion, it seems like a long winter despite it being a mild winter. The virus only added to the winter confinement & misery.
The early disappearance of the ice on Green Bay has lifted our spirits. Everyone has hopes for the approaching Spring.
Yet, nature has a way of thwarting or at least delaying those plans. There is snow again in the forecast for this week. Snow is nature’s way of saying she is still in control and not yet willing to give it up.
Phone Install Requests
For the last few weeks, we had requests for projected install dates. Please be patient. We know from many years of experience that there are snowstorms in our future. Remember, the ice is still on the shorelines. The lack of snow gives the impression the season could start as soon as this week.
In reality, the expected start date is “around” April 1. About two years ago, the season got underway early. After a week of installs, a huge snowstorm put a complete stop to the work for two more weeks. It was a struggle to get all the work done.
What have we done to keep up with installs?
All-Terrain Forklift
What have we done to keep up with the installs? We have added two more ATF’s (All-Terrain Forklift) to our fleet of equipment. The latest addition brings our total to FIVE ATF’s.
Latest Barge addition at PWS
Today, we are announcing the latest addition to Pier & Waterfront Solutions equipment list.
As many of you know, PWS has a large 24′ x 45′ barge used for rip-rap installations. The barge and excavators are also used for dock and lift installs in areas where our ATF’s cannot go. When the need arises, we use the barge and one of our excavators to install docks and lifts. These are challenging areas to access and operate any equipment.
If you’ve driven past our location in the past month or so, you may have seen this.
Barge
The new barge addition will allow us to expand our existing barge size by another 12′ x 45′. When joined with the existing barge, the new barge will be 36′ x 45′. (1,620 sq. ft. – That’s the size of a small house). That gives us increased load capacity to transport more equipment and materials. It will save time and allow us to be more efficient in the future.
The new barge can separated from the original barge for independent use at a later date if needed.
PWS have two experienced barge operators to move this equipment between locations.
Where is 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 road MM (heading north). Look on the right at the next corner – Idlewild Road and Hwy 57.
Is PWS OPEN?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “open” year-round.
The Covid virus continues to spread and affects many people. Don’t be one of them.
PWS is conducting 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 will provide estimates by email to make the process faster, safer, and paperless.
Call, message, or email us today with any questions.
Call Jerry at 920-493-4404 for more information or use this link.
Mar 16, 2021
Is a Floating Dock in your future?
Not all floating dock systems are created equal. Some are better than others.
For many waterfronts, a floating dock system is a perfect fit. ShoreMaster PolyDock systems float on the water and remain stable in waves up to two feet.
PolyDock floating dock
How Does it Work?
A floating dock is usually a platform supported on air-tight, buoyant floats. In the case of a PolyDock, the platform is part of the float system. The platform serves two purposes in this case. It is available in 4′ and 6′ widths for more stability.
A gangway connects the floating dock system to the shoreline. The docks are easy for seasonal boat owners to install and remove.
Floating docks are anchored into the water at the shore end and, depending on the dock’s length, at the water end.
Benefits of a Floating Dock
Floating docks are popular for inland lake shorelines. It’s easy to see why. It’s simple to install, add to, and remove modules, allowing the dock’s design to change.
Does a floating dock have to be removed in the winter?
Standard practice dictates you remove the dock in the winter. On small bodies of water, they can be allowed to freeze in place. Freezing in place can occur when there little chance of ice movement in the winter and early spring. If there is any movement, you must remove it each year.
An alternate method allows the dock to move with the ice in a contained area. Marinas use this technique all the time.
DEEP or fluctuating water levels?
The PolyDock system works great on shorelines with deep or fluctuating water levels. There is never a concern about the depth of the water. The flotation allows your dock to adjust along with the water. An anchor holds the floating dock in place.
Are you concerned about the environment?
Are you concerned about the natural environment and the look of your dock? The PolyDock systems’ low profile is the answer.
PolyDock systems set the standard for stability, reliability, and ease of ownership.
ShoreMaster floating dock systems meet or exceed the Hunt Absorption Test. Even in the unlikely event of a puncture to the outer shell, your dock will remain buoyant.
The PolyDock system has rotationally molded outer shells. UV inhibitors infused in the body ensure durability for many seasons to come.
The unique construction gives you unlimited customization options. Install accessories anywhere around your dock perimeter.
PolyDock Floating Dock Systems by ShoreMaster
ShoreMaster is an industry leader and expert in dock life and products. This expertise helps you find the perfect plan for your shoreline.
Pier & Waterfront Solutions will help you decide whether a floating dock is right for you.
Contact PWS today. We will help you start planning your dock set-up.
Where is 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 road MM (heading north). Look on the right at the next intersection – Idlewild Road and Hwy 57.
ARE WE OPEN?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “open” year-round.
Please use face masks
The Covid virus continues to spread and affects many people. Don’t be one of them.
PWS is conducting 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 whenever possible.
Our display yard is 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 will provide estimates by email to make the process faster, safer, and paperless.
Call, message, or email us today with any questions.
Feb 23, 2021
Ramps vs. Gangways
A frequently asked question is – what is the difference between ramps vs. gangways?
Gangways
Standard dock ramps
When choosing between ramps vs. gangways, first, think about what your neighbors are using. Remember, your dock will most likely sit at the same height!
Would you, your family, or guests be comfortable going up that incline to use the dock?
Do they need a running start to get up to the dock? If they do, a ramp is not the way to go.
Ramps work great for a level or short distance up or down. They don’t need handrails due to their length, and the angle to the dock is not steep.
How high is your dock above the water?
On an inland lake, you usually are about 1 foot above the water at the most. Since the waves seldom get more than a foot high on a lake, you don’t have a steep climb to get to the dock. A simple ramp will do an excellent job for you.
One more thing to consider about a ramp
Please don’t allow yourself to be talked into using a ramps narrower than the dock itself. It’s an accident waiting to happen.
Someone walking to shore may get distracted and step off the dock expecting the ramp to be the same width. Foolish but true.
Ramps or gangways should always match the width of the dock. You don’t want someone stepping off the edge when they thought the dock was wider.
Consider your shoreline
What do you have to walk over to get to your dock? Is it a sandy beach or a rocky shore with stones the size of the palm of your hand? Are there large boulders that only the kids enjoy climbing?
Is rip-rap only is the first obstacle followed by the rocks?
Now, with the rip-rap, you may experience a difficult time getting over the rocks. In some cases, the water is right up to the rip-rap.
Once over the rip-rap, you may have to walk over some rough terrain to get to the dock or pier.
Gangways are a safe and straightforward solution to your problem.
Consider both the length and width you need. For example, the PWS 3-Season Pier offers various pier and ramp widths and lengths to fit your needs.
PWS offers ramps and gangways with the same decking as the rest of your dock. It all fits together seamlessly.
Do you have rip-rap?
Due to the high water, you may have installed rip-rap along the shoreline to protect property values.
Now, with the large rip rap, you may have a difficult time getting over the rocks.
You may also have to walk over some rough terrain to get to a dock or pier.
What’s the solution?
To start with, PWS can add stairs in the form of flat rocks or steel steps right in the rip-rap. From there, we have gangways in 20 ft. lengths to finish your walk over any obstructions.
Have an aluminum dock?
PWS has 16′, 20′, and 24′ lengths with handrails included. These significantly reduce the chance of a twisted ankle or a broken leg or arm.
No rip-rap?
The high water likely means your dock is higher than previous years to escape the waves’ power in a storm.
Now you need ramps or gangways to access the dock. A ramp, which is usually 8-10′ long, will give you a steep angle to climb under some circumstances.
The best way to access your dock when it is this high is via gangways. The longer gangways provide a gradual slope that young and old will appreciate.
A gentle transition from the shoreline to your dock is essential for a seamless, gentle climb. (As a side note, the long gangways mean you usually need fewer sections of the pier.)
PWS offers stairs, ramps, and gangways to access your dock.
One of the critical choices you’ll make is choosing between ramps and gangways.
What do you have to walk over to get to your dock?
What do you have to walk over to get to your dock – Sand, rocks, or boulders?
As you think about the length, make sure you keep in mind the ramp’s width. PWS has various options to suit your needs.
Ramps
If you don’t have far to walk (less than eight feet from shore to dock), a ramp is an excellent choice. That is unless the pier is set high.
Ramps are standard on shorelines where the water level doesn’t fluctuate much. The ramp is usually short enough that they don’t require handrails. However, longer approaches provide a gentle slope to a higher dock.
Aluminum Ramps come in 4′ x 4′, 4′ x 8′, and 6′ x 8′ sizes. The strength of aluminum does not normally allow for longer lengths without handrails.
PWS will advise you which type of dock access works best in your situation.
Gangways
If the distance from your dock to the shore is:
1. Long and you have to walk over large rocks or boulders:
2. The dock is set high: or
3. You get a lot of debris floating along your shoreline – Consider gangways rather than ramps.
Unlike ramps, gangways provide a gentle slope to walk up because of the distance they cover.
A 20′ gangway could reduce the cost of your dock system too.
Aluminum Gangways
Aluminum residential gangways are 4′ wide and come in lengths of 16′, 20′, and 24′.
An alternative for galvanized docks would be a steel gangway, which comes in 20′ lengths. As you can imagine, this longer length is much more comfortable with less incline.
Let’s summarize these ideas.
Let PWS find the Perfect Dock System for you.
Determining what a good fit would be is an integral part of making your dock system perfect.
PWS offers high-quality and affordable options for gangways, ramps, and accessories. We provide the expertise and expert knowledge you need to determine which option will work best for your situation.
PWS can help you plan the perfect boat docking system for your area.
Get started HERE!
Where is Pier & Waterfront Solutions?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions, 7325 St. Hwy 57, is located 3 miles south of Sturgeon Bay. It’s 1 mile PAST the intersection with County road MM (heading north). Look on the right at the intersection of Idlewild Road and Hwy 57.
ARE WE OPEN?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “open” year-round.
Please use face masks
The virus continues to spread. PWS is conducting 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 whenever possible.
Our display yard is OPEN 24-7
The PWS 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.
Red Tag
PWS will provide estimates by email to make the process faster, safer, and paperless.
Call, message, or email us with any questions.
Thank you for allowing us to work with you.
