Apr 13, 2026
March on the Great Lakes isn’t for everyone and that’s exactly what makes it special.
This is the in-between season. Winter hasn’t fully let go, and spring is still finding its footing. Along the piers and waterfronts, you won’t find the crowds of July or the maximum activity of peak tourist season. Instead, you’ll discover something quieter and more reflective in a landscape that feels almost untouched.
Walk out onto a pier in March and you’ll likely hear it before you see it: the low, rhythmic crash of waves against rock and steel. The lakes are restless this time of year. Wind sweeps across open water, pushing waves into dramatic swells that feel more ocean like than Great Lakes. On colder days, ice still clings to the shore edges with crusted railings, or stacked in jagged formations near the shore.
The air carries a sharpness that wakes you up instantly. It smells clean mixed with hints of thawing earth and distant pine. Gulls wheel overhead, their calls echoing in the open space, while the occasional duck or hardy fisherman reminds you that life never really pauses here, it just adapts.
There’s a kind of solitude you can only find on a Great Lake’s waterfront in March. Benches sit empty. Shops and cafes nearby may still be on winter hours. The pace is slower, and that gives you permission to slow down too. You can linger at the end of a pier, watch the shifting patterns of water and ice, and feel the measure of the lake in a way that’s harder to notice during busier seasons.
March is also a time of subtle change. Look closely and you’ll notice snowbanks shrinking at the edges, longer daylight hours, the first hints of migratory birds returning. The lake itself begins to shift in color—from the steely gray of deep winter to richer blues and greens as the season progresses.
If you visit the waterfront this time of year, come prepared. Layers, a warm hat, and sturdy boots make all the difference. The wind can be strong, and surfaces can still be icy, but that’s part of the experience.
Preparing your dock in March on the Great Lakes is all about inspection, timing, and ice awareness. Conditions can still be unpredictable, so the goal is to get ahead without risking damage.
- Check Ice & Water Conditions First
- Make sure ice is completely gone or very thin and breaking up.
- Watch for ice movement. Large sheets can destroy docks quickly.
- Keep an eye on wind direction; shifting ice can pile up fast.
On lakes like Lake Michigan, ice can linger into early spring, especially in sheltered bays.
- Inspect Your Dock Components
Before installation or repairs, go through everything:
- Frames & supports: Look for bending, cracks, rust.
- Decking boards: Check for rot or warping.
- Hardware: Tighten or replace bolts, brackets, hinges.
- Floats (if applicable): Ensure no leaks or damage.
If you removed your dock in fall, now’s the time to assess everything before reassembly.
- Shoreline & Lakebed Check
- Inspect for erosion or shifting shoreline.
- Look for new rocks or debris moved by ice.
- Confirm lakebed stability for posts or anchors.
Winter ice can significantly change your setup area.
- Plan Your Installation Timing
In Wisconsin and the upper Great Lakes:
- Late March is often too early for full install.
- Most docks go in April–May, depending on thaw.
- Aim for a calm, ice-free window.
- Prep Your Equipment
- Lay out sections in assembly order.
- Lubricate moving parts.
- Charge or test any power tools.
- Stage everything close to the shoreline for quick install.
- Safety Tips (Important This Time of Year)
- Avoid walking on questionable ice, “It’s not worth it.”
- Wear a life jacket if working near water.
- Be aware of cold shock if you fall in.
- Work with someone else, never alone in early spring.
- Consider Dock Needs
- Add low water extensions.
- Obtain new or additional equipment.
- Replace damaged parts.
Save time and enjoy the spring by having Pier & Waterfront Solutions service your pier.
Annual install & removal services
PWS has the widest range of equipment and the best reputation to handle your installation. We have dependable ATFs (All-Terrain Vehicles) for efficient service. Our crew leaders are experienced and trained to handle every situation. If you don’t have shoreline access or if the water is very deep, PWS provides a large barge to carry heavy equipment and 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 where needed.
Contact Pier & Waterfront Solutions today at 920-493-4404 and be ready for summer fun!
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!
Sep 7, 2021
SUMMER HAS ENDED
Summer for many people has ended. It’s a sad time for many people. People are heading home. Many families have to get back for school for the kids and can only come back on weekends. Still, there will be some great days left this Fall.
Many of our customers are from out of state. In fact, we have customers from almost ALL the United States. They return each year to enjoy some of our great Wisconsin weather. The size of the crowds will begin going down after Labor Day.
Have no FEAR! Spring is just a couple of months away!
But still, it’s a sad time for many people. Our Chicago and Minnesota customers are among the saddest at this time of the year. Why? They face another year of being defeated by the Packers.
Who else faces problems at this time of the year?
Another group is people with storm-damaged equipment. The Fall storms get stronger in September and October. That’s why we move as fast as we can to get to your location to safeguard your equipment by removing them for the year. The freezing water doesn’t help either.
If you have damage to your equipment please call Jerry @ 920-493-4404.
Not using your docks and lifts anymore this year?
It’s a good idea to drop Keri, our Service Manager, a line letting her know you are ready to be removed. Give her a date when your canopy will be down and your boat stored for the year. Email your message to Keri@wisconsinpws.com. She will put you on the schedule.
It’s particularly tough this year for our crews. One of the dealers in Door County closed expectantly before Memorial Day. Our teams will be working longer hours to adjust to the influx of new customers. As the days get shorter, they will be working by their headlights to meet the schedule.
Four things you should know about fall storms:
- PWS will assist you if a storm damages your equipment. We prepare Free estimates to cover your damage. Insurance companies then use the estimates to prepare a settlement for you.
- We recommend you read this article before talking to the insurance company. Take pictures of all the damage. The more images, the better.
- PWS can also salvage your equipment and make winter repairs, so you are ready to go in Spring.
- PWS will move your equipment to another location if you sold it or bought another property.
PROPERTY DAMAGE?
Shoreline Erosion
Do you have property damage, eroded beaches, and lawns? Don’t forget, Pier and Waterfront Solutions has a complete rip rap service available. We’ll have your shoreline repaired for Spring.
Call DAVE at 920-905-2588 for more details.
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 corner (Idlewild Road and Hwy 57).
Is PWS OPEN?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “open.” We have implemented measures to help ensure the safety of our employees and visitors. PWS continues to work to maintain the trusted service that you have come to expect.
PWS implemented these preventive measures:
1. Conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
2. Site visits will continue. 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.
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.” Remain at a safe distance.
Thank you for allowing us to work with you.
YES – PWS is OPEN and waiting for you!
Please call, message, or email PWS with any questions.
Let’s all stay safe!
Aug 31, 2021
DOCK SWAY BRACE
Is a sway brace used on your dock? If not, does your dock sway as you walk on it? There are several reasons this can happen to any dock or pier.
There are main TWO reasons for dock movement.
You need to distinguish between the two types of movement. Is it an up and down movement, or is it a side to side movement?
First, Let’s tackle the Up and Down movement.
When installed, PWS makes sure the legs are firmly on the bottom. This typically makes the dock stable for most people.
Yet, over time, storms can wash out or move the sand or rocks under the footpads. Sand is more susceptible to this action.
It’s the same effect that erosion has on the shoreline. First, it washes away sand and small stones from under the footpad. Then, it continues to work on the remaining stones and rocks. When enough materials are removed, there is nothing left to support the leg.
At this point, you may experience the sensation of up and down movement as you walk.
How do we prevent it from happening?
There is no way to completely prevent washing out of the footpads. If we disturb the lake bottom too much, it weakens the tightly packed base. Disturbing the lake bottom makes it easier for the wave action to wash the sand away. The sand (or small stones) are loosely packed and have small openings in them.
The only “cure” is to reset the legs firmly on the bottom. We notice this frequently occurs after strong storms. The “white caps” you see are moving the water under the surface also.
The second type of movement is actual “sway.”
“Sway” is the side-to-side movement when the dock is set higher above the water.
The current water level is still above average even though it is down from 2019 and 2020. This is evidenced by the continued erosion happening up and down the shoreline.
PWS raises your dock up to protect it from high wave action during the summer. When the frames are adjusted higher, the pier becomes less stable. Walking on the dock will cause a side-to-side movement because the center of gravity is higher.
Think of a simple fishing pole. When the pole moves at the bottom, the movement is amplified at the top of the pole. The higher the frames are raised, the more side movement will occur.
See this link for more information.
There is a solution.
A sway brace on the legs reduces the sway side sway. You’ll feel more secure as you walk the length of your dock.
Sway Brace
Does every set of legs need sway braces?
No. PWS will make recommendations based on the heights and lengths of your dock or pier. Often, we add a single brace on a pair of legs. Next, we alternate the position in the opposite direction on the next set of legs.
One brace is attached near the bottom of one leg and clamped higher up on the opposite leg. This depends on the height of the legs.
It may involve a crew member having to submerge in the water to reach the bottom of the leg. In spring, that is not something anyone wants to do.
Does it matter if I have an aluminum or steel frame?
A steel frame is less likely to need braces than an aluminum frame due to its own weight. Different configurations are available for aluminum frames, but the principle is the same.
Braces are available for new installations, as shown here. There is an add-on version (independent components) for existing frames. They can be added to existing dock legs if needed. Either version will help stabilize your dock in deeper water.
Will sway braces help your dock?
Call Jerry at 920-493-4404 for more details.
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 corner (Idlewild Road and Hwy 57).
Is PWS OPEN?
Pier & Waterfront Solutions remains “open.” We have implemented measures to help ensure the safety of our employees and visitors. PWS continues to work to maintain the trusted service that you have come to expect.
PWS implemented these preventive measures:
1. Conducting as much business as possible by email, text, or phone.
2. Site visits will continue. 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.
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.” Remain at a safe distance.
Thank you for allowing us to work with you.
YES – PWS is OPEN and waiting for you!
Please call, message, or email PWS with any questions.
Let’s all stay safe!
May 18, 2021
Weather Radar and Boaters
All Boaters need to understand weather radar.
In the old days, weather forecasters based their predictions on a combination of things:
2. Good eyesight (a weather eye); and
While today’s boater likely will look at his cell phone rather than looking up at the sky. For example, my wife can predict a change in weather by the pain in her elbow. She’s pretty accurate and she’s getting old too. (Note: I don’t let her read these.)
When dark clouds start building, having a basic understanding of how weather works can give you a head start on preparations.
Not all thunderstorms are intense, but they all are potentially dangerous. Boaters are especially vulnerable to the weather. They can’t simply run “inside” for protection. It pays to have basic weather-reading skills — so you can be prepared.
Here’s some help:
The Basics of Weather
Dark Clouds
Clouds
Whole books have been written on how to predict the weather by looking at clouds. Most people have a hard time remembering all the different types and what they signify. Here’s a simple rule of thumb: slow clouds get lower, or puffy clouds grow and get higher. Keep an eye out for rain or a storm. When looking at the sky, it’s helpful to remember that most weather changes come from the west. So keep your weather eye in that direction.
Generally, the slower the clouds change, the longer the duration of the weather change.
Thunderheads form quickly and dissipate just as quickly. Slowly thickening clouds associated with a cold front often mean a soaker.
Winds
Most of the time, winds are light in the morning. The winds pick up in the afternoon, and then return to light again as evening approaches.
If you find the wind speed not following the usual local pattern, suspect a change coming.
The direction of wind changes can also give you a heads-up to what’s coming. If the wind changes clockwise — say, from the south to southwest to the west — it usually means fair weather on the way.
If the wind changes counterclockwise, it usually signifies the approach of foul weather. An example would be, winds changing from the west to southwest and then to the south.
During the formation of a “pop-up” thunderstorm, the wind doesn’t always follow that rule. A “pop-up” thunderstorm often comes straight down from the clouds. It then spreads out in all directions. If you feel a sudden cool wind, check the sky for towering clouds.
Food for thought: When the speed of the wind increases, its effect on your boat rises exponentially. Your boat acts like a “sail.”
Did you know that a 20-knot wind has four times the force of a 10-knot wind?
Barometers
Weather Barometer
Barometers are more than just pretty brass instruments. The have a useful purpose. It’s just that most people do not understand their purpose – but they do look good.
Knowing what they’re saying can alert you to the advancing weather. Barometers are typically marked with areas of the face declaring “fair,” “changing,” and so on. The wording is misleading since reading a barometer is about noting changes.
A falling barometer usually means bad weather is approaching. It’s as much the speed of the change as the change itself that’s important to note.
A rapid fall means more significant changes. The normal pattern is a small up-and-down change that you can ignore.
A rapid rise may mean fair weather with strong winds. Typically, checking a barometer every couple of hours is adequate. Look for the direction of the change.
Thunder
If a thunderstorm is approaching, listening to thunder can tell you a lot about it. Counting the seconds between a “flash” of lightning and the “boom,” gives you the distance from the lightning. A five second difference equals about a mile.
Parents: if your children are afraid of thunder and lightning, explain that it is miles away. Then, distract them by asking them to count the seconds between the lightning and the thunder. It becomes a game for them, and they become less afraid of the noise.
Radar
Check the radar on your phone. Use the zip code 54301 for Green Bay. This is where the National Weather Service (NWS) is located. Their radar map includes the entire Door County peninsula.
The radar map will tell you where a storm is and where it’s heading. But, do not rely totally on radar. Because of the size of the Bay and Lake Michigan, there are frequently “pop-up” storms. That means unless you are actively looking at the radar, you can miss the approach of these storms.
Radar gives you the range and movement of the rain, allowing you to change course to avoid the worst. If the storm overtakes you – turn the boat “into” the waves and reduce speed.
Keep in mind, using the hourly radar will tell you where the rain is, but only a little information about the winds.
If you feel a sudden change in temperature, it signifies a change in wind intensity is coming. Start looking for a safe harbor, just in case.
Knowing the forecast before you head out is equally important.
BoatUS App
You can download and use the BoatUS App to track the weather. You’ll get small craft advisories and weather forecasts. Authorize “notifications” to receive updates about storm information. These occur each time NOAA tracks a storm heading your way.
NOAA
The most prominent weather data forecasts come from NOAA’s National Weather Service (NWS). NWS broadcasts weather for all parts of the U.S. via the Internet. It issues regular updated VHF broadcasts. All modern VHF radios can tune in to the forecasts, which operate on one of seven frequencies. Scan through the channels to find the best reception. Boaters can hear the computer-synthesized voice 25 miles or more from the transmitter.
The NOAA website lists current wind speed, wave height, and more at a nearby weather buoy. Go to: www.ndbc.noaa.gov for a look.
Weather Folk Lore
Red sky in morning, sailors take warning, red sky at night, sailors’ delight.
Pink Sky – Sailors Delight
Ever wonder what that means?
At night, a red sky signifies light passing through dust particles in the air in front of the setting sun. Dust indicates dry weather. Since most weather changes come from the west, a red sky at night means dry weather is approaching.
A red sky in the morning indicates that the dry air has moved east. Rain may be coming, especially if you see illuminated clouds.
If the morning sky is a deep fiery red, it means high water content in the atmosphere with the likelihood of rain. A gray sky at night means that the western air has a lot of moisture; therefore, it will likely rain soon.
One thing to remember: this rhyme can’t predict thunderstorms developing in the afternoon. Especially, when the morning has already been clear.
A summer fog for fair, a winter fog for rain.
Fog forms when the air cools enough that the water vapor condenses. When moist air moves over cold land, it will bring fog and possibly rain. For the air to be cool on a summer night, the sky must be clear. With clear skies, the excess heat can radiate into space. Cloudy skies act like a blanket, absorbing and re-radiating the heat, keeping it in.
If it is clear and cool enough for the fog to form on a summer morning, it should be clear later or at least by the next day.
When a halo rings the moon or sun, rain’s approaching on the run.
The halo around the sun or moon is caused by ice crystals high in the sky. A warm front is approaching and usually rain will be here within 24 hours. The rhyme is more accurate in the summer than the winter.
The higher the clouds, the better the weather.
High clouds mean both dry air and high atmospheric pressure. These indicate fair weather. Lower clouds mean approaching rain.
Marine Warnings and What They Mean
- Gale Warning: This is published when winds will be in the range of 34 to 47 knots.
- Storm Warning: This is issued if winds between 48 to 63 knots are forecast.
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Special Marine Warning: This warning is for boaters, in particular. It is issued whenever a severe local storm or strong wind of brief duration is imminent. It is not covered by existing warnings or advisories.
To sum this up – Learn all you can about clouds and winds – It can mean the difference between a nice cruise and a disaster.
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 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.
