May 25, 2021
What dock dealer has your next dock?
Selecting the right dock dealer is the most important part of finding the right dock for your property. You need a dealer with experience and a great reputation.
How experienced is Pier & Waterfront Solutions?
The combined knowledge of our staff, some of whom go back over 25 years, means we have encountered virtually every type of situation on the Door County Peninsula. PWS selected only the best dock lines to handle.
Our goal is not to have the most locations, just the best equipment, trained employees and knowledgeable staff. The rest will take care of itself.
PWS has provided docks for small ponds, inland lakes, floating docks for soft, muddy bottoms, and standing docks for sandy beaches and large boulders. PWS docks range from lightweight aluminum to galvanized steel docks so heavy it takes a crane or All-Terrain Forklift to move them.
Rest assured, PWS offers the correct solution for your next dock.
What about the PWS reputation?
Talk to your neighbors. They usually know of all the dock dealers in Door County. In most cases, Pier & Waterfront Solutions will come up as the premier dealer.
Some products PWS offers come with a 15 year structural warranty. All of our products come with the backing of our years of knowledge and professional staff. PWS provides professional guidance when it comes to selecting your new pier or dock.
There are NO high-pressure salespeople at PWS.
PWS has installations along both sides of the Door County peninsula. We usually can find a close-by installation to assure you that we can handle your situation. PWS also uses satellite images to help understand your requirements.
PWS is the only dock dealer in the area who responded to the high water and strong storms of recent years, by providing rip-rap installations to protect your shoreline with our own crews.
Unique challenges
Each body of water has unique challenges for dock owners. Before considering a dock, we need to have an idea of what you are facing. That’s why we ask questions when you first approach us. We need to know the requirements you want.
The type of dock used in a sheltered area generally will not work on Lake Michigan waters. New to the area? PWS can make recommendations for the entire peninsula.
Experienced boaters will tell you the “Bay” conditions can change rapidly. The water could have a mirror-like surface at 11 A.M. and be a raging storm with 4′ waves an hour later. (See https://wisconsinpws.com/weather-radar-boaters/). That’s why you need the best solution for your location.
What about decking?
PWS offers a comprehensive range of decking – from wood to concrete to Flow-Through decking. Most decking comes in more than one color to meet your individual needs. Currently, the most popular colors are tan and gray.
Are there different dock widths available?
PWS offers widths ranging from 3′ to the legal limit of 8′ wide, depending on the style. Our most popular sizes range from 4′ to 6′ wide. In galvanized steel, the 5′ widths have become very popular.
Does Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) do installations?
Lift & Dock installation
PWS has the widest range of equipment and the best reputation to handle your installation. We have (5) very dependable ATFs (All-Terrain Vehicles) capable of going into over 3′ of water. Our crew leaders are experienced and trained to handle every situation.
Don’t have beach access for our ground equipment?
“Small Barge”
PWS features a 40′ barge equipped with a deck mounted, moving 60′ crane for installs and removals. The barge can pick up your dock or lifts and place them on top of most cliffs to protect them from winter ice damage.
Pier & Waterfront Solutions has you covered.
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.
Oct 13, 2020
Steel or Aluminum Docks – Is Steel your best choice?
Aluminum ShoreMaster Dock
Pier & Waterfront Solutions has strongly recommended aluminum docks from ShoreMaster for years.
Today, the rising waters and intense storm activity has forced us to re-examine our customer needs.
What was the result?
If you’re in a protected or semi-protected area, we still recommend aluminum docks from ShoreMaster. These are the strongest aluminum docks on the market. When combined with their Flow-Thru decking, you have a winning combination for most needs.
But what if you aren’t in a protected area? Is steel a better choice?
Steel 3-Season Pier
The high waters have changed the environment in the last several years. For Lake Michigan and Green Bay customers, we saw a need to develop a new version of a dock. In March 2020, we announced the latest innovation from Pier & Waterfront Solutions – the steel 3-Seasons Pier.
When did this come about?
Initially developed in 2017 and 2018, the first docks were built and tested in 2019. In 2020, we put the 3-Season Pier in our sales area, where it quickly sold out.
Imagine having the most massive steel dock in the state to withstand the waves. Now, combine that with SunWalk decking, and you have another winning combination.
What else is different about the Steel 3-Season Pier?
It comes with 20-foot ramps – not the typical eight or 10-foot ramps you are accustomed to. Why is this important? A 20-foot ramp means you have a gentle rise up to the dock, and you don’t have to get a running head start to get there. It’s easier for young and old to access the pier.
Anything else?
Instead of having a mere 4′ x 8′ (32 square foot) “L” section to socialize on, you have a 4′ x 10′ (40 square foot) “L” section. The kids will no longer trip over your feet as they run around.
There’s 25% more room to sit or socialize on. The massive “L” section will also get you away from the boat lift area and the supplies you want to load.
What’s important when deciding what material to use?
When deciding on the type of material to use on your dock, it is essential to use strong materials that will last season after season.
Even the legs are massive. They measure 2-3/8″ outside diameter versus the next closest one 1-7/8″.
You can follow this link 3-Seasons Pier for the technical details of why it’s the strongest and best dock for you.
Aluminum Docks
Aluminum docks have always been popular due to their low maintenance and durability. Some people choose to install and remove their piers themselves, and the lighter weight helps.
Aluminum Dock Pros:
- Low Maintenance & Durability – Aluminum frames do not rust.
- Light-weight – Aluminum docks are easier to install.
Cons:
- More expensive – The biggest drawback for aluminum docks is that it can be more costly than it’s steel counterpart.
Steel Docks
Steel docks are popular because of their cost efficiencies and superior strength,
Pros:
- Strength: For heavily used piers, steel will be the best option for its strength, which will withstand constant use.
- Galvanized steel: At Pier & Waterfront Solutions, we use galvanized steel to prevent rusting.
Cons:
- Heavier weight: While the dock is known for its superior strength, the weight can also prevent buoyancy issues.
Ready to learn more?
At Pier & Waterfront Solutions, we provide a free site survey to determine the best material and design for your next dock.
Contact Jerry today to get started!
Call 920-493-4404 or email Jerry@wisconsinpws.com
Where are we located?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) specializes in ShoreMaster aluminum docks and now the 3-Seasons
Pier by PWS. We are located in the center of Door County at 7325 St Hwy 57 south Sturgeon Bay at the intersection of Idlewild Road. Our staff looks forward to serving all of your waterfront needs.
Jul 14, 2020
Dock Steps with Handrails
Dock Steps from Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) solve many problems for property owners. All-aluminum steps are available in (4) and (6) step configurations. These will never rust, rot, or require maintenance.
Is your ramp or ladder too steep or uncomfortable for your family to use? Is a ladder too hard to climb at the end of your dock? It’s time to look at aluminum steps. A set of dock steps can be an excellent alternative to access your dock.
Dock steps
Use them:
- Anywhere along the edge of your dock;
- Use them in place of a ramp if it is too steep to get comfortably to your dock;
- Use them to get from a seawall to the beach or directly to your dock; or
- To access the deck on your house. (no wood to rot or paint)
Is your embankment too high for even a (6) step unit?
These versatile steps join together to form longer units. You are not limited to 4 or 6 steps.
Starting with four steps, you can go to 6, 8, 10, or 12 steps. Use them to go down rough or slippery embankments to make a steady incline. Why risk a fall or injury?
Dock Steps on the embankment
The example above shows a combined (4) and (6) step unit, to form gradual access to the dock.
These versatile steps can be mounted on a seawall for access to the beach also. You don’t have to risk a fall on the slippery, wet embankment to get to your beach or dock. Steps are a natural solution to your landscaping issues.
Stairs
Need something even longer?
PWS custom-builds steps in whatever size and shape you need.
Maybe steps are not for you!
Gangway off a seawall
How about a 16′ up to 24′ gangway?
A gangway is another alternative to consider. Use an all-aluminum walkway from a seawall or embankment to the beach. Don’t let rip-rap or steep embankments hold you back. No need to risk twisting your ankle!
Gangways are available in 16′, 20′ and 24′ lengths.
Steps or gangways can also be used to gain access to a deck at your house or down a steep parking area to the house. Be sure to check out the gangway and step units in our front “pond” display.
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!
Feb 8, 2019
Thank you, Jerry:
Really appreciated your dock & pier services. Your guys did a great job and I can not wait to get it (lift) in the water.
Thanks again Jerry and if we need anything I will call you
Jim J.
Wisconsin
Jan 8, 2019
DOES A DOCK NEED AN ANCHOR?
Do I REALLY need to use a dock anchor or auger? First-time dock owners in Door County ask this question all the time. Their concerns are valid – no one wants the extra work or cost if it isn’t needed.
First, let me say that on most inland lakes on the Door County peninsula it is not necessary to install an auger or anchor. Except for Lake Winnebago, the inland lakes generally are not deep enough or wide enough to be of concern. Without an open expanse, the waves typically do not present a problem. That statement is contingent on you having the dock set at the proper height.
WHAT SHOULD FIRST-TIME DOCK OWNERS LOOK FOR?
For new dock owners, we recommend you look around your area. How high are the docks set? Experience is a great teacher.
If a majority of the piers are set “low” to the water, it’s probably safe for you to do the same.
Here’s a great way to meet your neighbors. Most people want to help. Don’t be surprised if the name – Pier & Waterfront Solutions comes up in the conversation as the place to go.
In general, if the summer storms reach a height of 36 inches, then the bottom of the frame should be at least 38-42 inches above the water. This height allows the vast majority of the waves in a storm to pass under the dock frames.
WHO NEEDS TO ANCHOR A DOCK?
Summer thunderstorms kick up 4-6 waves on the bay of Green Bay with little warning. It’s no wonder that people use augers to anchor their docks.
One method to secure your dock is to pound pipe legs into the gravel or sand. This takes a toll on your back (or your friend’s back if you were smart enough to recruit help).
Not the best idea. Besides, you have to figure out a way to get the pipes out in the fall. You can’t pound UP!
This method is ineffective in most cases. A wave pounding against the bottom of the decking will lift the dock straight up. Once the leg is pulled out, the dock usually will twist or roll-over due to the continuous pounding from the waves.
WHAT OTHER OPTIONS DO I HAVE?
The recommended option is to use augers in critical locations. One way to do this: the husband holds the dock frame up (he’s strong you know). Meanwhile, his wife uses a pipe wrench to screw the auger pipes into the bottom. This is hardly a recipe for marital harmony either. We DO NOT recommend this procedure.
auger pipe
On a calm day, the only part of the pier that is in the water is the support pipes (legs). The legs have a low surface area in comparison to the entire dock. Waves easily pass around the legs with little resistance.
Minimal resistance is the key to securing your dock.
WHAT TYPE OF DECKING YOU USE IS IMPORTANT?
Most decking has an almost solid surface. As a result, there is no place for the water to relieve the pressure when it hits the dock. In a vast majority of decking, there are only a few 1/2″ openings in the decking. Waves hitting the underside of your dock have no way to reduce the pressure on the pier. This will cause an upward movement.
Typical Plastic decking
What’s the best decking with the least resistance to waves?
Open decking
Flow Through decking provides the least resistance to the waves by reducing the surface area by 42%
Our advice is to assess the worst case scenario for wave conditions in your area. Then set your dock height higher based on those conditions.
Setting the dock height too low on the bay is a bad idea. You do so at your own risk.
Customers with steel framed docks and board decking have found their docks flipped over in storms. The dock usually sinks. or in some cases, get washed down the shoreline. The parts of some of these piers have never been located.
Others were damaged because they ran out of pipe length and did not want to replace the pipes with longer ones. With the higher water levels the past few years, pipes that are too short are getting common.
In some situations, even though the dock height is set correctly, a neighbors boat or other floating debris will hit your dock. You can’t prevent every situation.
WHAT ABOUT BEDROCK?
There are many places where dock augers do not work due to the limestone bedrock in Door County. There are three ways to handle this.
The first is to use angled leg pockets. The legs are angled out from the dock similar to spreading your legs to gain stability. This helps stabilize the dock more than standard vertical legs. However, this is no guarantee that the storms will not flip your dock. It does help though.
ANOTHER WAY
The second way to anchor a dock involves drilling in rock anchors. Once installed a chain is attached between the dock and the anchor. The problem is – how to locate the anchors after the ice goes out in Spring. In some cases, the ice and boulders that move in the Spring will destroy the anchors.
A final option involves using a large, heavy mass in the water to secure the dock. This serves as a dock anchor during a storm. Depending on the depth of the water this may have to be removed from the water each year. The ice may move it away if the dock anchor gets trapped in it. A submerged weight may not be the easiest way to secure a dock.
In summary, after everything is said and done, the simplest method is to keep the dock set higher than the waves.
Need Help Planning a Dock System For Your Home or Cottage?
Do you have a friend that may be interested in this information? Please share a link to this page with them.
PWS is located at 7325 St. Hwy 57. That’s 1 mile North of County MM (Hwy 42) and 3 miles South of Sturgeon Bay at the Idlewild Road intersection.
Our staff is here year-round to assist you.
