1. Banner - SRN Welcomes Northern Regional Manager Greg Mallon

Welcome Greg Mallon – SRN Northern Regional Manager

Admin March 14, 2023

Greg Mallon a Fort Schuyler graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business. He also has an unlimited tonnage captain’s license. Out of college, he jumped on the oil tankers and worked his way around the country sailing under his USCG license. When it came time to go shoreside, Greg became an established oil and petrochemical tanker broker.

Before joining Alchemy-Spetec and Seawall Repair Network, he served as Operations Manager for Miller Environmental Group (a leading environmental construction and remediation company). His vast background in the marine construction and petrochemical industry makes him an asset to Seawall Repair Network contractors and customers alike. Greg currently lives on Long Island, NY with his wife and son.

Components of a Seawall

Admin March 7, 2023

Seawalls are complex structures made up of many different components working together to provide protection and support. An understanding of seawall components informs decisions about repair and maintenance. Let’s examine the various components of a seawall and see how they work together to provide protection and support for waterfront property.

Seawall Components

There are several key components that are common to most seawalls. These include:

Foundation

The foundation of a seawall is the base upon which the rest of the seawall is built. It is important that the foundation is strong and stable to support the weight of the seawall and withstand the forces of the water.

Backfill Material

Backfill material is used to fill in the area behind the seawall and provide additional support. This can be any type of material, such as sand, gravel, or soil, depending on the specific needs of the project.

Filter Fabric

Filter fabric is a generic term used to describe geotextiles whose primary function is allowing water to pass through the vertical seams (panel joints) and weep holes of the seawall panels while reducing soil migration into the waterway from behind and under the seawall. Filter fabric is installed at the time of panel installation and is secured in place with furring strips behind the seawall. Filter fabric is most commonly installed behind concrete panel seawalls. Many vinyl and sheet pile seawall structures do not include filter fabric due to the wrap-around tongue-and-groove seems. Many types of filter fabrics are being installed with new seawall construction. As is the case with much of modern construction, the quality of today’s material is inferior to older versions.

Seawall Cap

A seawall cap is a horizontal structure that is installed at the top of a seawall. It serves several important functions, including:

Protecting the Top of the Seawall

The seawall cap helps to protect the top of the seawall from damage caused by weather, waves, and other external forces. It can also help to prevent debris and sediment from accumulating on the seawall, which could otherwise cause erosion and damage to the structure.

Providing a Walking Surface

The seawall cap can provide a flat, stable surface for people to walk on, which is useful if the seawall is located in a public area or is used as a recreational space.

Improving the Appearance of the Seawall

A seawall cap can add a finishing touch to the seawall, improving its overall appearance and making it more aesthetically pleasing.

Enhancing the Functionality of the Seawall

Depending on the design of the seawall cap, it may also be used to support additional structures, such as handrails, lighting, or seating.

Seawall caps are typically made of concrete, but can also be made of other materials, such as wood or stone. They are an important component and play a critical role in protecting the structure and enhancing its functionality.

Drainage System

A seawall should have a drainage system to allow water to flow through or around the seawall, rather than accumulating behind it. A drainage system prevents damage due to hydrostatic pressure buildup and ensures that it remains stable.

Deadman Anchor System

The deadman anchor system consists of a series of anchors that are installed behind the seawall and are connected to the structure by cables or rods. These anchors are typically made of concrete, steel, or other durable materials and are designed to resist the forces of the water and the weight of the seawall. This system is used to provide additional support and stability to the structure. It is particularly useful in areas with strong wave action or high hydrostatic pressure, where the seawall may be subjected to significant forces. The function of the system is to distribute the load of the seawall across a larger area, reducing the stress on any one point and helping to prevent failure. By providing additional support and stability, the system can extend the life of the seawall and ensure that it continues to provide effective protection.

Protective Coating

Many seawalls have a protective coating on the surface to help protect against the elements and extend the life of the seawall. The coating can be a sealant, paint, or another type of material, depending on the needs of the project.

Four Types of Seawalls

Admin February 28, 2023

Seawalls are constructed with a variety of materials, each featuring unique characteristics and benefits. Some of the most common types of seawalls include:

Concrete Seawalls

These seawalls are made of poured concrete and are a popular choice due to their durability and strength. Concrete seawalls are often used in areas with strong wave action or heavy boat traffic.

Sheet Pile Seawalls

These seawalls are made of interlocking sheets of metal, vinyl, or composite that are driven into the ground. Sheet pile seawalls are typically used in areas with softer soil or where the water level is expected to fluctuate.

Rock Seawalls

Rock seawalls (a.k.a. Rip Rap) are made of large, heavy stones that are placed along the shoreline to create a barrier. Rock seawalls are often used in areas with strong wave action or to provide a natural-looking barrier.

Wooden Seawalls

Wooden seawalls are typically the least expensive to construct. They are most often used in residential applications. Wooden seawalls tend to have the shortest lifespan of all the seawall types profiled in this article.

In conclusion, seawalls are critical structures that serve a variety of practical functions for waterfront property owners and other stakeholders. There are several types of seawalls to choose from. Once installed, is important to work with a skilled and experienced contractor to ensure proper maintenance and repair.

A Permanent Erosion Control System for New Seawall Construction

Admin February 14, 2023

Seawall Repair Network® offers a permanent erosion control solution for new seawall construction utilizing advanced materials, equipment, and processes to ensure the reliability of seawall structures. The key component of this system is SW-RP1, a specially formulated repair material designed to provide long-lasting support for seawalls, bulkheads, and similar waterfront barrier systems.

SW-RP1 is specifically formulated for soil stabilization, which is an important aspect of seawall construction. This stabilization process ensures that the soil surrounding the seawall is strong and durable, which is critical for the overall integrity of the structure.

Seawall Repair Network® contractors install SW-RP1 with Alchemy-Spetec’s PolyShark soil stabilization pump system. The PolyShark is capable of pumping large volumes of material quickly and efficiently, which is essential for ensuring that seawall construction is completed in a timely and cost-effective manner.

The Seawall Repair Network® proprietary seawall stabilization process ensures that seawalls are built effectively for long-term use. Seawall Repair Network® Preferred Marine Contractors provide their clients with the peace of mind that comes with knowing that the seawall will be built to the highest standards and will provide long-lasting protection against erosion and flooding.

Professional Seawall Assessments

Admin January 30, 2023

The importance of professional seawall assessments cannot be overstated. A seawall assessment performed by a trained and experienced professional is essential for identifying any potential issues or weaknesses that may compromise the stability and effectiveness of the seawall. Seawall Repair Network® specializes in providing high-quality professional seawall assessments. Seawall Repair Network® member contractors are highly trained and experienced in identifying key indicators of soil instability, seawall movement, cap damage, panel damage, tie-rod failure, and deadman anchor failure through a detailed assessment process. Using this information, they can design a customized repair plan that takes into account the specific needs and requirements of each individual seawall.

The repair process includes the use of advanced materials like the SW-RP1, which is specially formulated for use in soil stabilization and has been proven to increase the strength and stability of soil. SRN member contractors also utilize the state-of-the-art PolyShark pump for efficient and effective seawall stabilization. Overall, Seawall Repair Network®‘s focus on professional seawall assessments and the use of advanced materials, equipment, and processes allows member contractors to deliver the highest quality seawall repair services in the industry.

Seawalls: A Critical Component of Waterfront Infrastructure

Admin January 25, 2023

Seawalls are an essential component of waterfront infrastructure, providing a critical line of defense against erosion, storms, and other natural disasters. They are particularly important in protecting property and land from the damaging effects of water and ensuring the long-term stability and value of these assets.

One of the primary functions of seawalls is to protect against erosion. Erosion is the process by which land is worn away by the action of water, wind, or other natural forces. Erosion can be a significant problem for waterfront properties, as it can cause the land to disappear and buildings to collapse into the water. Seawalls are designed to withstand the forces of erosion and provide a physical barrier to protect against the loss of land.

Seawalls are also important in protecting against storms and other natural disasters. Many coastal areas are vulnerable to storms, such as hurricanes and typhoons, which can produce strong winds and waves causing significant damage to property. Seawalls are designed to withstand these forces and provide protection to the surrounding land and buildings.

In addition to protecting against erosion and storms, seawalls are also important in maintaining proper water depths in their area of function. This is particularly important for boat docks and other structures that rely on water access. Seawalls can help to keep water levels stable and prevent unexpected changes that could impact the functionality of these structures.

Finally, seawalls are important for establishing legally recognized property lines and water rights. In many areas, the location of a seawall is used to determine the boundary between private property and public waterways. Seawalls are also used to establish water rights, which can be important for businesses and other organizations that rely on access to water.

Overall, seawalls are a critical component of waterfront infrastructure, providing protection against erosion, storms, and other natural disasters, and helping to maintain the stability and value of waterfront properties. They are an essential element in protecting property and land from the damaging effects of water.

When a seawall fails, the ramifications can be significant.

Stabilizing and Preserving a Seawall in Portland, Maine

Admin January 24, 2023

A waterfront property in Portland, Maine was in need of a seawall repair to protect the property from erosion and storm damage. This seawall showed signs of failure, including soil depressions near the wall, rust stains on the surface, movement and shifting, and cracks in the concrete. Seawall Repair Network® member LJS Waterproofing was called for an evaluation and advised that the property owner needed a solution that would both stabilize the seawall and preserve it for the long term.

Repair Materials

LJS Waterproofing used SW-RP1 seawall repair material on this job. SW-RP1 transforms the surrounding soil of your seawall into a water-tight impermeable mass, which blocks the transference of energy and lateral stress caused by the typical build-up of hydrostatic pressure behind the seawall. SW-RP1 is environmentally safe and is certified to NSF (61-5) standards for contact with drinking water.

Procedures

The first step was to stabilize the soil and control hydrostatic pressure. This was done by injecting the Seawall Repair Network®‘s SW-RP1 into the soil behind the seawall. SW-RP1 is a soil-stabilizing material that is stronger than crystalline bedrock and safe for the environment. It seals leaks and controls hydrostatic pressure, which helps to prevent further movement and shifting of the seawall.

The next step was to preserve the concrete seawall. This was done by applying the Seawall Repair Network®‘s SW-Power to the surface of the concrete. SW-Power is a concrete hardener that strengthens the surface and makes it resistant to air or water-borne chemical damage. After that, LJS Waterproofing applied SW-Surcoat on top of the surface which is a concrete sealer that protects the surface of the seawall from water penetration, making it look nearly new.

Results

The seawall repair project was a success. The seawall was stabilized, and the soil behind it was protected from further movement and shifting. The concrete surface was also preserved, and the seawall was made to look nearly new. The property owner was pleased with the results and the work that was done by LJS Waterproofing. was protected from erosion and storm damage and the property owner was satisfied with the outcome.

Seawall Repair Network is Hiring Regional Managers

Admin January 16, 2023

About Seawall Repair Network®

Seawall Repair Network® is a division of Alchemy-Spetec (an international leader in the manufacture and supply of chemical grouts for Seawall Repair, Geotechnical, and Leak Seal applications). Proven solutions and key partnerships have positioned Seawall Repair Network® as the national leader in high-demand solutions related to soil and hydrostatic pressure regulation, concrete & steel repair/preservation, and protecting waterfront infrastructure and seawall structures.

About the Opportunity

Permanent full-time positions are available in the Southern and Northern United States.

We are expanding the Seawall Repair Network®. The Regional Manager role is critical to our successful expansion. We are searching for a leader to facilitate this growth opportunity. You will report to the SRN Division Manager and take responsibility for locating and converting selected prospective clients, expanding existing clients, and networking with established Regional Managers to grow the SRN Business in your region.

Responsibilities

Generating new sales opportunities by finding and developing new customers in key markets.
Contacting prospective customers who have sent inquiries and converting them into customers.
Establishing relationships with local governments and engineering firms to develop new opportunities.
Delivering rapid growth and business revenue in the region through proactive sales activities.
Working with existing Regional Managers and Technical Support to meet territory goals.
Building regional networks of referral partners in support of our customers.
Working closely with the marketing team to provide content and leverage existing opportunities.

Locations & commitments

Remote-based office with travel throughout the region you manage.
Periodic Training and organizational meetings in Tucker, GA, and Reno, Nevada.
Estimated travel: 70%

Candidate requirements

Proven experience in business development and networking.
Experience in this industry sector (Marine Construction, Soil Management, and/or Enviro Chemical Applications).
Strong business, communication, and budgeting skills.
Professional, engaging, and determined personality.
Goal-oriented self-starter who requires little supervision.
The ability to track and achieve KPIs.

Benefits

401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Professional development assistance
Vision insurance

Contact us to apply

If you have a passion for business development and the coastline/shoreline resilience industry, then we would like to meet you. Consider becoming an important teammate of a growing organization that is dedicated to “Saving the Planet One Seawall at a Time.” Send your resume and cover letter to Ken Braunlich at kbraunlich@alchemy-spetec.com.

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Admin January 3, 2023

Seawall Repair Network® is the only national, all-inclusive seawall repair and preservation network. We are a division of Alchemy-Spetec, the industry leader in seawall, leak seal, and ground engineering solutions. Here are answers to the top five questions we get from the public…

Q1: How Will You Repair My Seawall?

See the Seawall Stabilization and Seawall Preservation pages for an overview of the Seawall Repair Network® proprietary repair process. That being said, each waterfront property, structure, and environment provide unique challenges and require appropriate repair and remediation procedures. A preferred marine contractor will create a custom repair plan for your seawall.

Q2: Will the Repair Process Damage My Property?

One of the many advantages of the Seawall Repair Network® proprietary repair process is that it does not require excavation of your property. The majority of our projects require non-invasive repair procedures using light equipment.

Q3: Will the Repair Be Expensive?

The cost of repairing a seawall is generally 70% – 80% less than the cost of replacing a seawall. Seawall Repair Network® repair materials SW-RP1 and SW-RP6 are rock solid and last for the life of the structure.

Q4: Do You Repair All Types of Seawalls? (i.e., Concrete, Wood, Vinyl, Composite, and Steel Sheet Pile)?

The hallmark of the Seawall Repair Network® advantage is the SW-RP1 repair material. SW-RP1 does not care what your seawall is made of, and does not care what type of seawall you have. This material will permanently bond to, seal, and stabilize your seawall regardless of type.

Q5: How Long Have You Been Repairing Seawalls?

Seawall Repair Network® was founded by technicians with decades of experience in the field. The SRN proprietary repair process was developed based on an in-depth understanding that only comes from years of on-site seawall repair work. SRN contractors are chosen based on their technical qualifications and proven experience. They are then thoroughly trained in the Seawall Repair Network® proprietary repair process.

Hydrostatic Pressure Release System

Admin December 19, 2022

Devastating Effects of Hydrostatic Pressure

In the blog post Water is Relentless!, we described the devastating effects hydrostatic pressure can have on a seawall:

“Excessive rainwater or floodwater build-up on the landward side of the wall (usually resulting from an inadequate or clogged weep hole system within the wall itself) will put untenable hydrostatic pressure on the structure. This pressure can cause parts of the wall to move and/or crack. Once the concrete is broken, landward side water will pull soil from your property through the wall and into the water on the other side, causing depressions or small sinkholes near the structure. In addition, steel rebar or mesh inside the wall is exposed to rust, resulting in rust stains appearing on the surface.”

Overview of the Hydrostatic Pressure Release System

Fortunately, a pressure release system can be created by coring through the wall and the layer of SW-RP1 repair material that has been installed behind it during the initial part of the seawall stabilization process. Proprietary pressure release technology is then installed to regulate the release of hydrostatic pressure from any new water that may form behind the wall in the future. Because pressure release technology also stops landward-side soil from passing through the dewatering channels, it prevents new erosion and void formations. The support of high-strength SW-RP1 repair material combined with the regulation of hydrostatic pressure protects your seawall from subsequent movement, damage, or failure.

Components of the Hydrostatic Pressure Release System

Solidification of Soil with SW-RP1
The contractor injects SW-RP1 behind the wall on the landward side, transforming unstable soil into a permanent lightweight solid mass. This solidified soil provides the perfect supportive medium for the creation of de-watering channels.
Creation of De-Watering Channels
US Army Corps specifications for seawalls specifically require weep holes to relieve hydrostatic pressure. These channels are generally placed at the same height as the main waterline mark. If there are pre-existing weep holes, these new channels are usually created at those points.
Installation of Hydrostatic Pressure Release Filters
These filters allow water to pass back and forth to maintain an equilibrium of hydrostatic pressure while also preventing soil migration and void formation on the landward side.

In conclusion, this combined system of soil solidification, creation of de-watering channels, and installation of hydrostatic pressure release filters provides permanent stabilization of the seawall structure. This is all accomplished at 70-80% less than the cost of replacing a seawall. It’s also less destructive to the property because it requires no excavation. Seawalls require maintenance over time, and installation of this system can often be essential in preventing premature failure.