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.
Jan 26, 2021
How to Get Rid of Algae on Your Dock
An Algae free dock or pier is vital for a beautiful waterfront, not to mention safer for you and your family. Piers are a great place to entertain your guests. Did you ever notice your guests soon find their way down to the pier? Your guests can’t resist the water.
Typical Plank decking
Algae buildup on your boat lift, decking, and accessories is unattractive and slippery.
One of the biggest appeals of a dock or pier for many boaters is getting away from day-to-day life. We all want to enjoy and connect with nature.
That could be as simple as taking in the scenery, fishing, or watching wildlife.
It’s also the reason everyone must do what we can to keep the waterways healthy. That way, we can all enjoy nature’s beauty for years to come.
It’s essential to clean algae when you see it. It’s even more critical to prevent it from growing in the first place.
First, it’s essential to understand how mold and mildew form in the first place. To do that, we recommend that you follow this link:
https://wisconsinpws.com/cleaning-wood-decking/
Dealing with algae, mold, or mildew doesn’t mean investing in expensive solutions.
Removing moisture and the “food sources” mentioned in the article, go a long way to cut mold and mildew.
With these three tips, you can do it yourself.
Invest in the Right Dock
No dock will be immune to algae growth. Anything exposed to water will be affected by algae. But, aluminum boat lifts and docks can help cut algae growth. Aluminum is better at resisting algae growth than other materials like wood. Additionally, aluminum is easy to clean.
Choose Safe Products
When cleaning your dock and boat lift, use a non-corrosive cleaning solution. Cleaning can be as simple as using baking soda or a few drops of water-based dishwashing liquid. You already have these in your home.
The EPA’s Sager Choice Standard can help determine which products are best to use. Unfortunately, only a government bureaucrat can understand the standard without rolling their eyes. The government does not endorse products by name, so you have to make the judgment yourself.
Pick something:
Biodegradable:
Phosphate-free:
Having a neutral PH: and
Rub the surface of your dock and lift down
with a soft cleaning pad or brush.
When done, rinse with clear water or blast the dock surface with a pressure washer.
KNOW WHAT TO AVOID
Some cleaning products have environmental and health risks. Thus, it’s essential to watch what you put in the water. Ordinary household cleaners will increase nutrient pollution in lakes and streams. The result is algae blooms and oxygen depletion, which hurt the water and wildlife. In general, you should avoid any cleaning products that contain these hazardous ingredients:
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- Antibacterials and disinfectants
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- Butyl glycol, ethylene glycol, or monobutyl
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- Phosphorous and phosphates
Major pollutant
Proper Fueling
Carefully refueling a boat keeps oil and gas out of the waterways. It’s illegal to discharge petroleum products into United States waters.
It’s against the law to use chemicals to disperse a spill. Dispersants cause the petroleum to sink to the bottom. It then permanently damages the bottom sediments.
Sewage Treatment
We know no one wants to think about sewage, but it’s an essential part of human and waterway health and safety.
It’s also illegal to discharge untreated wastewater on inland waters.
Use onshore facilities whenever you can. Dispose of human waste in:
1. Porta-potties:
2. Composting heads, or
3. An installed toilet with a required
marine sanitation device.
Waste Management
For all other waste, recycle what you can and properly dispose of what you can’t.
Recycling materials like plastics, paper, metal, and glass keep them out of landfills and off our beaches.
We now know that plastics in the water are a significant pollutant. Plastics are already affecting the waters of the Great Lakes.
Dispose of all waste materials properly. Make sure nothing goes overboard, including cigarette butts. Provide waste and recycling containers on your boat and piers.
Keep everything tied down when you’re moving on the water or the highway. Participating in a cleanup event accessible only by a boat can also be a rewarding day to protect the water.
Walking your shoreline and picking up these materials can help the environment.
Boat Maintenance and Cleaning
Prepare a comprehensive boat maintenance checklist. Changing engine oil and checking your fluid levels keep your boat running smoothly. This, in turn, makes it less likely to pollute.
Check for leaks from steering cables, drips from your oil changes, or fuel from leaky fittings. All these contaminants can find their way into the bilge.
Change engine oil and other fluids carefully. Dispose of used filters, oil, absorbent pads, and rags properly.
Keep your boat clean, and avoid soaps and harsh cleaners. Save heavy-duty pressure washing for designated wash-down areas at boat launches.
Yes, keeping the environment clean involves some work.
Your property is expensive because it’s on the water. Why let waste products deteriorate the value of your property. A little work goes a long way toward keeping the water beautiful for future generations.
ShoreMaster and PWS have been here for years, and we plan on being here for many more. We want you to enjoy everything nature has to offer. Let’s all work towards the same goal – a clean environment.
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.
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 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!
Jan 7, 2021
Hi Jerry,
Enclosed is payment for the pier haul out this fall ….. They (the crew) did an excellent job under difficult conditions.
Will call you next spring for re-installation.
Dave W.
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.
Apr 28, 2020
3 REASONS FOR A SHORTER DOCK
The high water again this year means that your dock and boat lift will once again be taking a beating. (see article)
Last year, some people insisted on putting their entire dock in. Additionally, they wanted their boat lifts at the end of the dock. We advised against this, and we will be asking again this year. Why do we recommend this?
THE LEGAL REASON
First, the Legal reason – the DNR restricts a dock from being in water depths deeper than necessary to float a boat. In the past, in some areas, this meant a dock could be 200′ long (with warning lights to alert boaters in the dark).
Even that 200′ dock was legal as long as it did not obstruct boat traffic. If the water levels were shallow, you had to go that far out to launch a boat in some areas.
Today, that same dock could be closer to 100′ (or less) due to the extremely high water.
NOW – THE PRACTICAL REASON
Second, the reason for a shorter dock this year is simple – The water is EVEN HIGHER this year. There is a better chance that your dock and boat will survive the storms.
NEXT, THE FINANCIAL REASON
Finally, do you want to save money as well as reduce the risk of damage to your dock & boat lifts? The cost of installation depends, among other things, on the actual time it takes to install your equipment. Often, fewer sections equate to lower costs.
What’s the alternative to a shorter dock?
Without your agreement, we had to install the full length. If you didn’t agree, we felt we had no choice but to replace the legs with longer legs. We had to do this to compensate for the higher water. But, this route results in higher costs for installation.
Some homeowners took us up on the shorter docks in the hope that the water would go down in 2020. It didn’t! Others opted for lengthening the legs.
From our standpoint, it requires more time to replace the legs with longer ones than to shorten the dock.
So – What Happened?
Some docks did not have longer legs put on, and we installed the entire length. Still, they survived. If this was your dock, feel fortunate.
For those who did NOT allow us to do one of these alternatives, we will be asking you to choose again this year. Remember, the water is even higher this year.
We would prefer to leave one or two sections uninstalled this year. The alternative, we will request that you allow us to put longer legs on your dock. Our goal is simple – we want to limit damage to your dock.
Also remember, with longer legs, your dock may have more “sway” to it. If that happens, we recommend sway braces.
Even with longer legs, we will ask you to move your boat, and jet ski lifts closer to the shore. This will help protect them from the waves. The lifts have limited leg lengths (without getting longer legs). Your boat could pay the price if we don’t use one of these alternatives.
NEW – this year!
This year PWS has another alternative that was not available in the past. Talk to Jerry about trading your dock for the new 3-Season Pier, which we are now offering.
This new steel dock can handle storms better due to it’s greater weight and the “open” decking we use. Combining these two features makes it the heaviest pier on Green Bay. It has survived installations on Lake Michigan also.
Tell Your Friends & Family
Have friends or neighbors you believe should see this article? Email them this link – and Thank you!
Don’t Forget – Considering rip-rap for your shoreline? PWS is the place to contact!
PWS is open for business as usual. Practicing “Social Distancing”? We do business by phone and emails also.
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 is staying “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 implementing these precautionary measures:
1. Conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
2. Site visits will continue but with limited in-person meetings. When in-person contacts are necessary, we will follow “social distancing” guidelines.
3. 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.
Is there More?
4. Some employees will be working remotely, but they are always available by phone.
5. Any employee with symptoms or illness is sent home.
6. We continue to provide estimates and invoices by email to make the process paperless.
7. Crew starting times are being staggered to limit social interactions.
8. We keep the same crews together to limit cross interactions.
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?
1. Please conduct as much business as possible via emails, messaging, and emails. This step protects everyone involved.
2. When you see our crews installing equipment, please practice “social distancing.”
Thank you for allowing us to work with you.
So – YES – ARE WE OPEN?
Please call, message, or email us with any questions.
Let’s all stay safe!
Contact:
Jerry @ (920) 493-4404 or Jerry@wisconsinpws.com – Commercial work & new/used Sales.
Dave @ (920) 905-2588 or Dave@wisconsinpws.com – Erosion control & shoreline work.
John @ (920) 493-4405 or John@wisconsinpws.com – Scheduling & Service work
