If you’re a waterfront homeowner, you know that seawalls provide critical protection for your property against erosion and flooding. But after years of facing waves, storms, and tidal forces, even sturdy seawalls can develop issues that require repair.
What is a Seawall?
A seawall is a sturdy barrier built parallel to the shore along coastlines. It serves as the first line of defense against wave action, preventing erosion and flooding of the land behind it. Seawalls are typically constructed from materials like concrete, vinyl, steel, or boulders.
- Seawalls protect coastal properties by:
- Absorbing the energy of crashing waves
- Preventing erosion of the shoreline
- Providing a barrier against storm surge and flooding
- Stabilizing the foundation soil of coastal structures
Signs Your Seawall Needs Repair
Seawalls can develop issues over time that reduce their effectiveness. Signs your seawall needs repair include:
- Cracks, breaches, or spalling in the seawall surface
- Leaking or seepage during high tides
- Soil erosion around the seawall
- Wall movement or sections leaning over time
- Corrosion of steel reinforcement inside
Ignoring these issues can allow for further damage to the seawall, compromise its foundation, and leave your coastal property vulnerable.
An Overview of Repair Methods
The good news is that with the right repair techniques, you can restore the strength and function of your seawall. Common seawall repair methods include:
- Seawall repair polymers to stabilize supporting soil and seal leaks
- Hydrostatic pressure control systems to relieve tension on the structure
- High-strength epoxies to repair cracks in seawall caps
- Seawall anchoring systems to provide additional stability when required