What are Freeze/Thaw Cycles?

A freeze/thaw cycle is completed when soil freezes in cold weather and then thaws out again in warm weather. This cycle loosens up and destabilizes soil over time. This process causes erosion and can be problematic for structures that depend on supporting soil.

How Do Freeze/Thaw Cycles Damage Seawalls?

A healthy seawall has strong supporting soil on the landward side. The freezing and thawing process causes soil to become soft and less compact. Shifting and eroding supporting soil can cause cracks, movement, and leaks. Once these signs of distress appear, the “cost” clock starts ticking. The longer they are ignored, the more expensive the eventual repair or replacement.

Repair Seawall Damage Caused By Freeze/Thaw Cycles

Soil that has been permeated with SW-RP1 repair material is typically less infiltrated with moisture and thus less subject to erosion caused by freezing and thawing. Depending on the soil type, this procedure could prevent frost heave altogether. The Seawall Repair Network® proprietary repair process stabilizes the supporting soil while sealing cracks and leaks in the structure at the same time.