May 19, 2020
The Best Boat Dock Decking in Door County
Boat dock decking is no longer a simple piece of wood laid on other pieces of wood. There are many types of materials used on piers and boat docks today.
Today’s options include open-deck plastic, solid plastic boards, aluminum, wood, and various composites.
What’s the most popular decking used today, and why?
Today, wise shoppers choose plastic with the open-deck configuration.
Why?
It’s simple. The best type of decking is a plastic deck. Today’s plastic holds it’s original color (within 3%). It also keeps it’s shape better. Plastics need less maintenance than any of the other types of decking.
Plastic decking requires no staining or painting. The surface does not flake or wear-off, nor does it lose its color with exposure to the UV rays.
Open-decking helps resist the growth of mold and mildew far better than wood or even another plastic deck. Plastic stays cool in the summer, repels rain and dries quickly. About 90% of the moisture runs off immediately while the rest simply evaporates.
What about other types of plastic boat dock decking?
If you are referring to the wood and resin-impregnated boards, over time, the wood fibers swell. The moisture can attract mold and mildew.
How about recycled plastic boards with no fiber in it?
Typical Plank decking
The recycled boards come with their unique problems.
If stored in shaded areas, HDPE plastic boards cannot escape the mold/mildew cycle. See how the mold/mildew cycle develops HERE.
What’s the most important thing about decking?
Recycled decking is an extruded board. That means, when cresting waves hit the bottom of the dock, there is no release for the energy waves produce. The bolted-down boards keep the decking from washing away. But this creates a virtual “solid” surface for the wave’s energy to push against. The frame structure must take all the energy from the wave.
How can you prove this?
Look at a dock that flipped over during a storm. You will notice that the legs bent in the direction that the storm originated.
Solid boards with a 1/2″ gap every 6″ does not relieve the pressure from the waves.
The result is the upward pressure from the waves lifted the pier high enough for it to move sideways. The legs were no longer vertical. They came down at an angle, and the legs bent. The continuing pressure from the waves then pushed the dock over.
Plastic is plastic – isn’t it?
Yes, they are all oil derivatives. But, there are many types of plastic made today. Some are super hard and act as “bearing surfaces,” while others are very pliable.
In general, plastics will outlive us. The shape and surface area of the plastic makes a big difference when it comes to decking.
How do you relieve the upward energy?
The only way to relieve the pressure on the boat dock decking is to provide enough open areas for the wave energy to pass through. 42% open area is the standard today.
At this percentage, almost one-half of the wave energy passes through the decking. The wave is less likely to lift the dock. Yet the decking is strong enough to walk on.
If you combine the most massive steel frame in Door County along with an open deck,
you get the PWS 3-Season Pier.
Don’t Forget – Considering rip-rap for your shoreline? PWS is the place to contact!
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.
4. Some employees are working remotely, but they are always available by phone.
5. Any employee exhibiting symptoms or illness is sent home.
6. We continue to provide estimates and invoices by email to make the process paperless and faster.
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.”
So, YES – WE ARE OPEN!
Thank you for allowing us to work with you.
Please call, message, or email us with any questions.
Let’s all stay safe!
Apr 21, 2020
What happened to Lake Michigan water levels?
Water levels continued to rise on Lake Michigan in February, and it dropped 1″ in March*.
According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit district, “February was drier across most of the Great Lakes. However, water levels remain above record highs for this time of year”. In reality, February saw another two-inch increase compared to February of 2019.
We projected a 10″ rise in water levels year to year. We missed that mark. It rose 14 inches, which represents 11 trillion gallons more water in the Lake Michigan-Huron water system since last year. Believe it or not, that included the 1″ drop in March.
Water levels usually peak in late summer or early Fall. At present, the Army Corps predicts the water level will continue to rise another 1-5″ before Fall.
With the high water levels, you should expect stronger storm action in the summer months. With this action, there will be more erosion along the exposed shorelines.
What can you do to protect your property from rising water levels?
There are TWO things you can do:
- Install rip-rap to help protect your shoreline. Residents of the Door County peninsula already trust PWS to do a professional job. Call Dave @ (920) 905-2588; and
- Look at the new 3-Season Pier. Call Jerry @ (920)-493-4404.
PWS is all about SOLUTIONS!
Tell Your Friends & Family
Have friends or neighbors you believe should see this article? Email them this Link – and Thank you!
Visit Pier & Waterfront Solutions on Facebook 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
*Credits: MLive and Huron Daily Tribune
Jan 21, 2020
Pier & Waterfront Solutions
When Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) began in 2015, the founders never expected the strong response they have received for their efforts. They made a substantial initial investment in equipment and personnel. This investment had been based on extensive prior experience. They resolved not to make the same mistakes that other businesses had made.
Customer needs were to come before profits. It’s been a philosophy they follow to this day. The business demand has grown accordingly.
What are some examples?
As an example, as the business grew, they quickly realized that more equipment and crews to man the equipment were needed. In 2017 and again in 2018, they added the second and third machines and the crews to operate them.
Announcing ……….
This year, PWS purchased their FOURTH machine to handle the growing demand. But wait, that’s not all.
Despite the labor shortage in Door County, an additional hand install crew is in the works for 2020 also. This investment is to keep up with the market for our services.
How has PWS been received? Read our customer testimonials. These are actual notes we have received from our customers and printed here word-for-word.
Now it’s time for more changes.
What about our erosion control systems?
In the January 7th article, we also introduced you to our expanded shoreline erosion & rip-rap systems. In an attempt to preserve as much shoreline as possible from erosion, work continues into the winter months with the favorable weather.
Here are some more examples of the work that we completed this year.
BEFORE
Shoreline restitution – AFTER
BEFORE AFTER
Preventing shoreline erosion
MORE EXCITING NEWS – that’s not all of the changes coming for 2020! Follow this link for our next announcement.
Don’t Forget
Pier & Waterfront Solutions (PWS) specializes in ShoreMaster docks, lifts, accessories, and now, shoreline erosion control and waterfront work!
Located at 7325 St. Hwy 57, just south of Sturgeon Bay, PWS can be found at the intersection of Idlewild Road and Hwy 57. Our staff looks forward to serving all of your waterfront needs.
Contact Dave @ (920) 905-2588 or Email Dave@wisconsinpws.com for information about erosion control.
Jerry @ (920) 493-4404 or Email Jerry@wisconsinpws.com for information about New & Used Sales.
John @ (920) 493- 4405 or Email John@wisconsinpws.com for Scheduling.
Jul 30, 2019
BOAT LIFT SELECTION
Purchasing a boat lift (new or used) can be very confusing. There is a lot to consider before making your selection. This article will assist you in making the right decision.
Let’s start with, where will you be using the boat lift?
Why is location important? The location will be an essential consideration for determining the suitability of a boat lift for the body of water you are on. Will you be on the Bay of Green Bay, Lake Winnebago, a river or a small inland lake?
On larger bodies of water, vertical boat lifts are the preferred choice. Why? The answer is the extra lifting height you get versus a cantilever lift.
2019 Storm Challenges
2019 is proving to be a challenging year for most dock and boat lift owners. With record-setting water depths and strong, frequent storms, owners see the need for the higher lifting capacities.
Unlike people on small lakes, the Bay of Green Bay and Lake Winnebago present unique problems for boaters. The reasons are the storm surges. A storm surge is caused by sustained winds blowing in one direction with no rivers or creeks on the leeward side to relieve the pressure of the water piling up. Wave action of 4 or more feet on top of a water surge makes the situation even worse.
These two factors combined, mean you will need a lift that raises high enough to keep your investment from being damaged. You also need the most durable frame construction possible.
Frame strength is achieved by using a more substantial square or rectangular frame versus a round, thin tube. If the frame is not strong enough, you won’t get the extra protection your boat deserves. That’s why PWS only handles ShoreMaster boat lifts.
Rivers have unique problems in the form of fluctuations in water depth in early spring from snow melting and heavy rain runoff during the season. Any boat lift must be capable of handling the changing water levels here too.
Depth of water is another consideration.
Vertical lifts, with a “V” rack, require about 6″ of water plus the draft of the boat to operate. This low water requirement is vital if the water recedes in late summer or fall.
Boat length, width, and weight affect your choice.
PWS recommends that you consider not only the length, width, and weight of the boat you currently have, but also the possibility of a larger boat in the future. It will save you money in the long run. People frequently change to a bigger, better boat, so you should not ignore this issue.
Why do we insist on checking the weight you give us for your boat?
It’s not that we don’t trust you – we simply don’t trust you, but in a good way. Our reputation is on the line with every lift we sell, so it has to be the right one for your needs. Some salespeople quickly choose the lift you “need” without even looking up the Specifications to be sure. Remember, the weight is more than the boat weight.
See also https://wisconsinpws.com/boat-lift-calculations-part-4/
Will you raise the boat by hand or do you need a motor?
24 V Solar Panel arrangement
Do you want to raise your boat with the winch wheel or use a remote-controlled motor to do the work for you? 12V/24V D.C. motors power most boat lifts with 120V A.C. used less frequently.
Nature charges your battery via a solar panel, and there is no cost to do it.
A.C. versions, while available, require 120 V power at the boat site and require more care to prevent electrical shock.
What are the Frame Materials?
Corroded & Frayed Boatlift Cable
The most popular boat lifts in N.E. Wisconsin have aluminum frames and stainless steel cables.
There are still a few steel boat lifts around.
But they are few and far between due to their weight, limited lifting heights and susceptibility to rust.
Aluminum boat lifts will have either galvanized or stainless steel cables. Sometimes they have a combination of both materials. Stainless steel cables last as much as 2-4 times longer than galvanized steel cables and don’t rust.
What about the pulleys on the lift?
ShoreMaster Brass Pulleys
Pulleys on boat lifts will be either plastic, steel or brass construction. Robust brass pulleys with stainless steel hubs are
Plastic Pulleys
the best choice while plastic pulleys are not recommended even on the lighter PWC lifts. The heavier the boat, the more critical it is to have stainless steel and brass materials.
Plastic pulleys become brittle over time. Eventually, the edges break off, and the cable gets jammed between the frame and the pulley. Raising a boat with a jammed cable is extremely hard to do.
Who will install the boat lift?
A professional company is best suited to do this for you.
Boat lifts in the 5000# range or larger, definitely require professional installation and removal services. It’s not a job for amateurs. Do you have a dependable provider for this service? PWS has experienced, trained people and the necessary equipment to do it for you,
What is the Warranty?
Many boat lifts come with a 1 or 2-year factory structural warranty. Some have five-year, and a few even have a 10-year warranty. ShoreMaster boat lifts carry a full 15-year structural warranty. The 15-year warranty is the best on the market.
SEE https://shoremasteravala.blob.core.windows.net/media/1588/shoremaster-warranty-12142016.pdf
Now it’s up to you! Our recommendation? See what your neighbors have to say about PWS.
Customer Testimonials
Do you have a friend that might be interested in this post? Please forward it to them.
Pier & Waterfront Solutions
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. Or – for more information, you can call Jerry @ 920-493-4404.
Jun 4, 2019
2019 DOCK INSTALLATION UPDATE
We promised an update on the dock installation season in an earlier post, and here it is. We won’t gloss it over, we have been unable to get all the docks in before Memorial Day.
Our crews have been working every possible day overtime. They are scheduled to work a full six days a week. However, six days a week is not a reality.
We have lost at least 2 to 3 days a week to heavy rains or high winds. We plan for at least ten days of rain or high winds during the install season. This year that has not been enough. As a result, even some of our office staff are called upon to install.
WHAT’S CAUSING THE DOCK INSTALLATION DELAY?
Lift & Dock installation
The major problem has been water levels we have not seen since the 1970s. Everywhere we go, we see water levels setting new records. Our equipment can handle high water up to four feet. However, this year, the high water is combined with frequent strong winds and access problems.
The usual access across lawns or in fields is frequently saturated. Our equipment is heavy, and the ground is so soft we cause extensive damage when a customer insists we drive across it. Most customers will say it’s okay to drive across the wet lawn because they don’t want any delays. Later they get distraught when they see the deep ruts in their property.
2019 is the second straight year of high water – an additional 10″ on top of the high water from last year. Heavy winter snows have combined with a very wet and cold Spring. As of this writing, the water levels are expected to rise even further until Fall.
As a result, many docks have already run out of pipe length.
WHAT’S THE END RESULT?
As we reported in our May POST, the short legs require that we replace the legs with longer ones. Replacing these legs is a time consuming and expensive process. In many cases, it has cut our installs per day by 50%. Failure to add longer legs will almost certainly result in damage to your dock whenever there is a storm.
Are we the only company experiencing these problems? NO – all of the install companies are experiencing the same issues.
WHY CAN’T YOU TELL ME WHEN MY DOCK INSTALLATION IS SCHEDULED?
After looking at the forecast, we make plans to install a group of docks at least a day ahead of time. When that morning rolls around, we have had to frequently change the work schedule, cancel it altogether, or move it to a different area.
We completely understand when our customers get upset that we can’t tell them when the install will occur. I think you will agree with me when I say they will get angry when we commit to an install on Wednesday and have to change the date at the last minute.
We may plan a stretch of installs along Bayshore Drive between Sturgeon Bay and Egg Harbor for a Tuesday. However, if the winds are battering that area, we have to change our plans at the last minute. We have no choice.
We urge you to follow this advice – DO NOT bring your boat in until the boat lift installation is completed. You may end up having to take it out again if we can’t get there as planned.
Do you have a friend that might be interested in this post? Please forward it to 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. Or – you can call John @ 920-493-4405 for more information.
