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Seawall Repair for Engineering Professionals

Admin August 15, 2023

Body - Seawall Repair for Engineering ProfessionalsSeawall Repair Network® provides the engineering community with detailed information and technical guidance on modern stabilization and preservation methods. Consider us a go-to resource when writing specifications or continuing your professional education.

Seawall Repair Specification Support

When writing specs for your seawall stabilization or preservation projects, don’t hesitate to take advantage of our dedicated technical support team. Seawall Repair Network® support technicians draw upon decades of on-the-job experience and an expert understanding of repair methods when consulting with engineers.

Accredited Seawall Repair Presentations

Seawall Repair Network® is a division of Alchatek, which offers one-hour CE/PDH accredited presentations on seawall repair, soil stabilization, concrete leveling, and leak seal applications. Fill out the presentation request form or call 888-834-4926 for more information.

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A Network for Experienced Seawall Repair Contractors

Admin August 8, 2023

Body - A Network for Experienced Seawall Repair ContractorsAre you an experienced seawall repair contractor? Are you interested in growing your business? Many contractors avoid larger seawall repair jobs because they don’t feel qualified to provide structurally sound, durable solutions to property owners and managers.

Seawall Repair Network® provides in-depth educational materials and hands-on training to members with a proven, reliable support system that includes high-quality repair material, top-of-the-line equipment, access to a tech support team with decades of experience, and robust marketing assistance.

Seawall Repair Network® repair materials and procedures are not destructive to any nearby property, reducing clean-up costs and risk of damage liability. As an added benefit, these advanced materials and methods can also be used in new seawall construction – providing a competitive advantage in that market as well. Fill out the contractor contact form or call 888-834-4926 for more information today.

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Seawall Repair for Waterfront Property Managers

Admin August 1, 2023

Body - Seawall Repair for Waterfront Property ManagersSigns of Seawall Failure

Managing property with a seawall requires a specific understanding of waterfront barriers and how they work. It’s important to know how to spot any signs of structural decay.  Let’s review this excerpt from our blog post Four Critical Warning Signs of Seawall Failure.:

Soil Depressions Near the Seawall

Soil depressions appear due to the loss of soil near the structure. Water is seeping through or underneath the seawall, weakening the structure and contributing to soil erosion. Strong surrounding soil is critical to a healthy seawall.

Rust Stains on the Surface

Rust stains are a sign of corroded rebar inside the concrete. Corroded rebar expands, cracking and destabilizing the structure.

Movement or Shifting of the Seawall

Hydrostatic pressure and/or lack of supporting soil around the structure can cause sections of the wall to move or shift over time.

Cracks in the Concrete

Cracks in the concrete can be caused by spalling due to rebar corrosion, or movement due to hydrostatic pressure and unstable soil.

Protect Your Seawall, Protect Your Waterfront Property

When a seawall is failing, the property it was constructed to protect is at risk. As a waterfront property manager, you now have a one-stop-shop seawall repair solution!

The Seawall Repair Network® 3-Step Property Preservation Plan

  1. Contact an Expert
    Fill out the contact form or call 888-834-4926.
  2. Get a Detailed Repair Plan
    A preferred marine contractor will schedule an evaluation.
  3. Relax While We Save Your Seawall
    Get back to your other priorities while we repair the seawall.

Managing property is challenging enough without having to deal with a failing seawall. Let us take that part off your plate, so you can get back to doing what you do best.

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Seawall Erosion Control

Admin July 25, 2023

Body - Seawall Erosion ControlSeawall Erosion Control – Soil Stabilization

Seawalls are important structures that protect waterfront property from erosion and flooding. However, seawalls can deteriorate over time due to a variety of factors, including weathering, wave action, and soil erosion. When a seawall begins to show signs of damage, it is important to repair it as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration and protect your property. Soil erosion is often a key factor in seawall failure. Seawalls depend on supporting soil for structural support. Contractors using SW-RP1 seawall repair material can stabilize surrounding soil, repairing leaking cracks in the process. This process permanently strengthens and repairs soil damage and prevents future erosion.

Additional Seawall Erosion Control Methods

  • The installation of a hydrostatic pressure control system, which automatically removes any future water that builds up behind the seawall. Unchecked water build-up causes hydrostatic pressure which cracks and damages even the strongest seawalls.
  • Seawall cap repair with high-strength epoxy and concrete repair materials. This process addresses surface cracks on top of the seawall and restores strength and integrity to the structure.
  • If necessary, the installation of a seawall anchoring system. When needed, steel tie-backs are installed to prevent future movement of the seawall in high-risk sections. The tie-backs lock into load-bearing solid soil behind the wall.

Seawall Erosion Control Contractors

Seawall erosion control is an art and a science, best performed by preferred marine contractors who have been thoroughly trained in the latest and most effective repair methods.

Repairing Stone Seawalls

Admin July 18, 2023

Body - Repairing Stone SeawallsA stone seawall is a coastal protection structure that is constructed using stones that are stacked and mortared together to create a barrier against water. These seawalls have been used for centuries to protect property, land, and infrastructure from the forces of the ocean and to prevent erosion. Stone seawalls are ideally built in areas with low to moderate wave energy, as they are not as strong as concrete or steel seawalls. They are often used in areas with a rocky shoreline, as the stones used in the seawall can be sourced locally. Stone seawalls are also a good choice for projects where a natural or rustic aesthetic is desired.

The History of Stone Seawalls

The history of stone seawalls goes back to the early civilizations that lived along coastlines and shorelines. These civilizations used stones to construct barriers to protect their settlements from the sea. In ancient Rome, for example, stone seawalls were used to protect the city from the Tiber River. In the Middle Ages, stone seawalls were used to protect ports and harbors in Europe. Today, stone seawalls are still commonly used in a variety of projects around the world.

Signs of Stone Seawall Failure

As with other types of waterfront barriers, stone seawalls are subject to failure over time. Signs of stone seawall failure include soil depressions next to the wall. These occur when leaks form in the wall, and rainwater buildup on the landward side seeps through the structure into the body of water on the other side – taking soil with it. Another sign is the movement or shifting of the structure. Hydrostatic pressure due to water buildup on the landward side puts stress on the wall. This can lead to one or more stones loosening and shifting out of place.

Repairing Stone Seawalls

The seawall repair process for stone structures is very similar to the approach used with concrete panel seawalls. SW-RP1 repair material is injected into the ground on the landward side of the wall, stabilizing the loose soil and stopping leaks in the structure. Hydrostatic pressure control valves are installed, allowing water to flow through the wall when needed, without bringing any soil along. And, if necessary, a seawall anchoring system is installed. With stone seawalls, however, more SW-RP1 is injected behind the structure, since the walls are typically more porous. In addition, cementitious patching material is used to fill any large voids due to irregular-shaped or missing stones.

Get a Free Estimate for Stone Seawall Repair

If your stone seawall is showing signs of failure, call Seawall Repair Network at 888-834-4926 or fill out this contact form to schedule an onsite inspection and get a free repair estimate.

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Seawall Repair for Real Estate Professionals

Admin July 10, 2023

Body - Seawall Repair for Real Estate Professionals

As a real estate agent selling waterfront properties, it is crucial to have a deep understanding of seawalls and signs of potential problems. This knowledge will help you assist the property owner in upgrading the property for sale. In this article, we will discuss the four critical warning signs of structural decay in waterfront barriers.

Erosion and Depressions in the Ground

Keep an eye out for soil depressions near the property’s waterfront area. These depressions occur when soil erodes or is lost near the structure, indicating potential water seepage through or underneath the barriers. This seepage moves from the landward side, through the wall, and into the water – taking soil with it. The loss of supporting soil weakens the structure over time.

Presence of Rust Stains on Surfaces

Rust stains on the surface can be a clear indication of corroded reinforcement bars (rebar) inside the concrete structure. When rebar corrodes, it expands, causing cracks and destabilizing the overall structure.

Movement or Shifting of the Structure

Changes in hydrostatic pressure or the absence of adequate support from the surrounding soil can lead to some movement or shifting of sections of the seawall over time. These shifts can compromise the overall integrity of the structure, potentially putting the property at risk.

Cracks in the Concrete

Cracks in the concrete should never be ignored, as they can be caused by various factors such as spalling due to rebar corrosion or movement resulting from hydrostatic pressure and unstable soil. These cracks are visual indicators of potential weaknesses and should be addressed promptly to avoid further damage.

Upgrade the Seawall, Upgrade the Property

When seawalls show signs of deterioration, it puts the entire property at risk. As a real estate agent, you can offer your clients a comprehensive solution to address these concerns effectively.

The Seawall Repair Network® 3-Step Upgrade Plan

  1. Contact an Expert
    Fill out the contact form or call 888-834-4926.
  2. Get a Detailed Repair Plan
    A preferred marine contractor will schedule an evaluation.
  3. Relax While We Save Your Client’s Seawall
    Get back to your other priorities while we repair the seawall.

With our team at work, you can focus on your other priorities while we take care of the repair process, ensuring the seawall is restored to optimal condition. Let us handle the repair process, allowing you to focus on what you do best – assisting your clients with their real estate needs.

Spalling-in-Concrete-Seawalls

Spalling in Concrete Seawalls

Admin July 5, 2023

Spalling-in-Concrete-SeawallsSeawalls protect your valuable waterfront property from the relentless forces of oceans, lakes, and rivers. Most seawalls are primarily made of concrete and are designed to withstand the harsh marine environment. But even the strongest seawalls are not invincible. Let’s take a closer look at concrete spalling, an issue that can compromise the integrity of waterfront barriers.

Hidden Threat: Spalling in Concrete Seawalls

Spalling occurs when the surface of a concrete structure starts to crack, flake, or peel away. This damage can be caused by corrosion and swelling of steel reinforcement, repeated freeze-thaw cycles, or other forms of structural stress. Cracks, pits, and other types of surface and internal concrete damage weaken your seawall’s structure and make it more susceptible to further harm.

The Vulnerable Point: Seawall Caps

The seawall cap is a critical component that is particularly vulnerable to spalling. Typically made of steel-reinforced concrete, these caps form the top layer of a seawall. They play a crucial role in protecting the rest of your seawall from the elements and providing a safe and stable surface. Movement of your seawall can be triggered by factors like soil migration and will cause instability and shifting. The steel reinforcement in the seawall cap can become stressed, leading to spalling that causes the concrete to break apart and crumble.

The Need for Timely Intervention

Spalling of your seawall cap can worsen over time if left unattended, potentially resulting in more severe problems such as structural failure. It is crucial to enlist a qualified marine contractor to repair spalling as soon as it appears. The repair process typically involves removing the damaged sections of concrete and repairing them with cementitious patching material.

The Takeaway

Spalling is a very common issue. Understanding what it is and how it can be repaired is essential. For more information on spotting potential issues with your waterfront barrier, see the article Four Critical Warning Signs of Seawall Failure.

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The SRN Seawall Anchoring System

Admin June 27, 2023

Body - Seawall Anchoring SystemThe seawall anchoring system installed by Seawall Repair Network® contractors features helical tiebacks that lock the wall into solid load-bearing soil on the landward side. Helical tiebacks are a type of deep foundation system that uses helical-shaped plates welded to a steel shaft to anchor a seawall in place. They are installed using rotary drilling equipment that generates torque to rotate the lead helical pile and its attached piles deep into the ground.

When is a Seawall Anchoring System Required?

When a seawall experiences significant overturning or kick-out, or panel separation from the original flush panel installation, we recommend retrofitting the seawall with this anchoring system. These anchors provide a cost-effective and safe solution for stabilizing seawalls and preventing further damage.

How is a Seawall Anchoring System Installed?

The preferred method for installing helical tiebacks is to load an excavator and hydraulic drive-head onto a marine barge, which transports the heavy equipment to the job site. This allows for quick and efficient installation of the anchors from the waterward side of the seawall, minimizing the destruction of property and safety risks associated with operating heavy equipment from behind the seawall.

Do All Seawalls Require an Anchoring System?

While helical tieback anchors are an effective solution for stabilizing seawalls, it is important to note that most seawalls do not require them. Proper maintenance and regular inspections can help identify potential issues early on and prevent the need for more extensive repairs. Seawall Repair Network®’s team of professionals is trained to assess conditions and provide recommendations for the most appropriate repair solutions.

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Common Causes of Seawall Failure

Admin June 20, 2023

Body - Causes of Seawall FailureSeawalls typically fail prematurely due to a couple of common causes. One of the main causes of seawall failure is soil migration, which can destabilize the entire structure. Another cause is hydrostatic pressure buildup on the landward side, which often contributes to soil migration.

Soil Migration and Seawall Failure

Soil migration is the movement of soil from one location to another due to various factors such as waves, tides, and storms. This can cause erosion at the base of the seawall, undermining its stability. In addition, soil migration can lead to the formation of voids or empty spaces behind the seawall, which can cause further destabilization. Void formations can occur when soil is washed away from behind the seawall, creating a space between the seawall and the ground. These voids can undermine the integrity of the structure, increasing the risk of failure. Soils that are not sufficiently compact or stable are more prone to erosion and void formation.

Hydrostatic Pressure and Seawall Failure

Hydrostatic pressure is the pressure exerted by a fluid, such as water, on a structure. When there is a buildup of hydrostatic pressure on the landward side of a seawall, it can cause the structure to become unstable and potentially fail. This water buildup can be caused by a variety of factors, such as high tides, waves, and storms. The effects of hydrostatic pressure buildup on the landward side of a seawall can be significant. It can cause the seawall to tilt or lean, increasing the risk of failure. In addition, the added pressure can cause the seawall to crack or break, leading to further destabilization.

Preventing Seawall Failure

To prevent premature failure of a seawall due to soil migration and void formation or hydrostatic pressure buildup, it is important to have a professional evaluate the condition and stability of the structure. If necessary, the supporting soil and the structure can be stabilized, and a hydrostatic pressure release system can be installed to prevent undue pressure on the wall.

Banner - Ignore Signs of Seawall Distress at Your Own Peril

Ignore Signs of Seawall Distress at Your Own Peril

Admin June 13, 2023

Body - Ignore Signs of Seawall Distress at Your Own PerilSigns of Seawall Distress

As a waterfront property owner or manager, it’s important to be familiar with the four critical warning signs of seawall failure. Soil depressions near the wall, rust stains on the surface, panel movement, and cracks in the concrete are all serious signs of distress. It’s important to call in an expert to evaluate the situation if any of these problems appear. The before and after photos included in this article depict the type of catastrophic failure that often results from neglect.

Preventing Seawall Failure

Fortunately, the proprietary Seawall Repair Network® stabilization process was designed by experts to prevent failure in waterfront barriers showing these types of warning signs. Preferred marine contractors inject SW-RP1 repair material behind each panel joint in the seawall, filling all the voids while stabilizing the supporting soil. Next, the crew installs a pressure relief system consisting of weep hole channels drilled through the wall, the stabilized soil, and into the soil on the landward side. Pressure release technology is then installed to regulate hydrostatic pressure resulting from any new water build-up on the landward side of the wall. If necessary, seawall preservation treatments are also applied to the concrete. This comprehensive repair and prevention system stops seawall deterioration in its tracks and shores up your waterfront barrier for many years to come.

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