A 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.