Mar 9, 2021
Boat Lift Common Mistakes
My boat lift cable broke…and I can’t get
No one wants to see this.
Imagine losing your boat even before getting it out on the water. Embarrassing – to say the least.
To keep you and your boat safe, Pier & Waterfront Solutions has some tips to avoid boat lift mistakes.
Failure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions means you’re more liking looking at a boat – IN the water, instead of – ON the water.
Never Exceed the Weight Capacity
It seems obvious, yet this happens every year. Extensive testing goes into ensuring a lift can support a calculated weight. Never ignore the results of those tests.
Engineers use a balanced load to determine the lift capacity of each unit. BOTH the weight and the load distribution are equally important to the safety of your boat lift.
Never assume a lift can support “a few extra pounds.” If the salesperson tries to sell you a lift rated for even a pound less than your boat and accessories weight, – find a different seller.
At PWS, we have the proper lift for all types of watercraft.
Give yourself plenty of wiggle room. Assume your boat weighs a couple of hundred pounds more than what even the manufacturer indicates. Then, add the extras. More on this later.
Why? It is not unusual to find several different weights listed for the same boat. Are you willing to chance the lowest listing?
The listed weight refers to the maximum weight of the craft plus all the extras.
Boaters also need to account for fuel, equipment, and anything else that will add weight to the boat.
Equally important – Properly Position the Boat.
Like a canoe in the water, balance is essential.
With a lift rating, manufacturers assume that you will balance the beams’ load when you put the boat on the lift. Only you have control over this.
On a boat lift, the boat should be equally balanced on the front and back beams. The left and right sides also should be centered. If the boat is balanced correctly, you should not be able to raise the bow at all with your hands.
A boat set too far back on the lift beams creates a light front. It’s much like the imbalance of a 100 -pound kid on one end of a seesaw with a 30 -pound kid on the other end. Waves can easily wash up beneath the front and work the boat off the lift.
At the same time, too much weight on one beam also creates extra strain on the cables. If the cables aren’t in perfect shape, they could break.
Something to consider
There are cables in each of the four corners holding your boat up. These cables distribute the weight of the boat equally to the four corners. That statement assumes you distribute the boat’s weight evenly on the rack beams in all four directions.
Assume you would like the boat sitting closer to the dock to make it easier to enter your boat. If you move the boat closer to the side of the lift frames (off-center), you are putting extra weight on the cables closest to you.
Now, put the boat a foot back on the beams.
You have not only put more weight on the two cables nearest the dock, but you have also added more weight to one cable at the “entrance” or back of the boat.
Now, add in a weakened cable, and you can see what’s coming next. Don’t let this happen to you. (Need a reminder- Look at the first image)
Load your equipment carefully.
Although you should load the boat after it’s in the water if you choose to load it before lowering the boat, distribute the load evenly.
Be Aware of Lifting Height
Please do not continue to raise the boat once it reaches the top. It seems simple enough. But wait, there’s a storm coming, and I have 1/2″ clearance between the rack and the top beam. Isn’t it best to close that gap?
Continuing to crank the winch places stress on all the parts, including the beams and possibly damaged cables. Here’s what could happen – see above.
We see this situation all the time.
Raising the boat too far may cause damage to any one of the lifting components. Some lifts automatically shut off when the lift reaches its maximum height (Hydraulic). Make sure this mechanism works as part of the lift’s routine maintenance.
Proper Loading
It may seem straightforward to load a boat while it is not rocking on the waves. However, anything loaded before lowering the boat into the water brings you closer to the lift’s maximum rating.
Loading the boat on the water helps you determine where the best weight distribution to maintain watercraft balance is.
We recommend that you lower the vessel before adding any heavy equipment or other essentials.
If your lift isn’t functioning correctly, it may be time to get a new ShoreMaster boat lift.
PWS will be happy to help you decide which lift is best for your location and type of watercraft. By talking to PWS, you can avoid making costly lift mistakes.
Want more information on this topic? Follow this link. Easier still – give the boat information to PWS. Let us do the calculations for you.
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 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
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 with any questions.
Thank you for allowing us to work with you.
Mar 2, 2021
PWC Lift Winch Extension Kits and more
Wish you had an easy way to move the Personal Watercraft (PWC) winch closer to your dock height? Is it difficult to kneel on the dock to reach down to get to the winch wheel? There is a solution!
PWC Extension Kit
PWS has a winch extension kit designed to solve this problem. The kit raises the winch and wheel assembly approx. 21″ to make it easy to reach the wheel.
The extension kit works on the ShoreMaster model 1296 and the more popular ShoreMaster model 1264 Vertical PWC lift.
The winch extension tube raises the winch and wheel on your PWC lift approx. 21″. The winch extension kit makes raising and lowering your lift hassle-free.
There is less danger of you falling headfirst into shallow water. Moving the winch almost two feet higher helps take the strain off your knees and back, too.
How does it attach?
The extension kit attaches to your current winch arm to raise the winch and wheel as a complete unit. The kit is easy to install and makes the lift easier to operate. You’ll want to use your PWC even more.
Want more convenience?
PWC Walking Platform
How about adding a PWC walking platform? The platform allows you to access your PWC lift with ease.
No more crawling over your unit to put a cover on either. Need a convenient loading/working platform? Here’s your solution!
Today, everything operates via remote control.
Why not your PWC Lift?
Remote Control
Mount a Lift Tech or Lift Boss motor to your PWC lift! Imagine the convenience of raising your PWC by remote control!
It’s the same proven concept used on our boat lifts. Once mounted, it only takes the push of a button to raise or lower your PWC. What could be easier?
Contact Jerry (920-493-4404) or email Jerry@wisconsinpws.com for more information. For your convenience, follow this Link.
Let PWS find the Perfect PWC Lift System for you.
Determining what a good fit would be is an integral part of making your jet ski system more enjoyable.
PWS offers high-quality and affordable options for Jet ski lifts 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 jet ski system for your area.
Get started HERE!
Where is PWS?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions, 7325 St. Hwy 57, is located 3 miles south of Sturgeon Bay.
Heading North, it’s 1 mile PAST the intersection with County Road MM. Look on the right, at the next corner (Idlewild Road and Hwy 57).
ARE WE OPEN?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “open” year-round.
As 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 when you call us.
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.
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.
Feb 16, 2021
Low ice covers effect on erosion
A lack of ice cover this year could lead to increased shoreline erosion, according to experts.
An analysis of Great Lakes ice coverage shows a decline of about 5% since the 1970s. In the last 20 years, 14 of those years had ice coverage levels below the 53% average.
Door County’s ice coverage
Lake Michigan has ice coverage of around 7 – 12% – a far cry from the 100% coverage we have experienced in our lifetime. These are new records for the Great Lakes.
The Great Lakes coverage is currently at a record low for January. Coverage is well below the seasonal average. The situation has prompted concerns about the environmental impact caused by the lack of ice.
What’s causing low ice coverage this year?
The low ice coverage results from local weather patterns. These patterns impact ice formation on the lakes. The warm air temperatures we all enjoyed earlier this winter have had an impact on ice formation. It has made for thin ice and a general lack of ice formation.
How low is the ice coverage?
Long term ice coverage has been around 50-55%, but this year it has hovered about 30 %. Even the Bay of Green Bay, at its narrowest locations, has not frozen entirely over. In the few areas where ice extends across the Bay, its total thickness is lacking.
Low ice affects the Great Lakes in many ways.
Remember, even when the ice is 100% frozen, it continues to “crack,” as anyone who has ventured out on the ice can tell you. If the ice completely covers the water, the chances of ice movements are minimal.
But, when the ice breakers open the shipping lanes south of Sturgeon Bay, it allows for ice movement.
Ice Damage
With strong winds, ice shoves develop and create havoc along the downwind shorelines. Once the ice begins to move, there is nothing that man can do to stop it.
A recent incident in the Sturgeon Bay area demonstrates what happens with strong winds. https://www.wbay.com/2021/02/04/large-crack-in-ice-strands-people-in-door-county/
The dangers of low ice – Shoreline erosion
Shoreline erosion is a real challenge without the protection of ice coverage. Ice prevents wave action from eroding the shoreline during the winter.
Winter winds cause wave action. Without the ice cover, wave action continues to wear away the shoreline.
Along the Lake Erie coast, shorelines have caved in due to the lack of ice cover protection. The waves keep slamming the shoreline. Ice calms lake water in the winter.
Another effect
Prevailing winds pick up more precipitation without ice on the lakes. It is then dumped on communities downwind.
Expect more occurrences of large snowfalls when lakes remain ice-free.
More Contaminates
Without ice cover, more suspension of run-off nutrients occurs. The lack of ice coverage results in the reintroduction of contaminants into the water. The long term effect is more algae blooms.
Low ice cover affects fish too.
Whitefish spawn in the winter months and need still waters, so their eggs are not disturbed.
What are the projections for the Door County Peninsula?
Projections for 2021 are for coverage of around 30 percent, sometime in February or early March. The long-term average is 53 percent.
Who benefits from low ice?
Lake freight is one of the few things that benefit from the low ice. It reduces the need for ice breakers to keep the shipping lanes open.
Good news
It’s not all bad news! The Great Lakes are resilient waters, and they do recover. Various pressure, including contaminants, invasive species, and algae blooms, assault the Lakes every year.
It may not be the same as it was, but there’s a lot of resiliency in the Great Lakes. The Great Lakes continue to bounce back and are still intact. They are an essential ecosystem.
Where is Pier & Waterfront Solutions?
PWS, 7325 St. Hwy 57, is 3 miles south of Sturgeon Bay and 1 mile PAST County road MM’s intersection (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.
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
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 and quotes 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 safely.
Let’s all stay safe!
Feb 11, 2021
Hi Jerry,
Just a note to say Julie & I are very happy with the Shoreline Repairs.
The workers did a great job from start to finish. The grouting looks good, also.
We are looking forward for summer to arrive.
Have a healthy New Year!
Dee & Julie Door County peninsula
