Problems Everyone has with Seawall Repair - How to Solve Them

Seawalls are designed for defending the coastline from flooding and erosion, protecting neighboring residences. In order to keep a seawall structurally sound, sufficient maintenance is required. It is also important to consider an experienced and professional person who has the skill and knowledge about constructing different types of seawalls.  

Salt water causes deterioration of the anchor rods and fasteners over time, warning indications may include seawall outward movement and misalignment. 

The steel that reinforces the concrete seawall can corrode as well as expand due to the prolonged exposure to seawater. Over time, it can develop cracks and if the steel continuously corrodes and expands, cracks get larger and break off pieces of the seawall cap. 

For this, at the bottom the seawall moves outward. Excess loading causes the piles of sheet wall to develop horizontal cracks. As an outcome the steel is exposed to sea water and weakens the sheet piles further. 

Proper maintenance and upkeep of seawalls is very important to identify minor problems, so they do not become more serious. Poor maintenance will lead the seawall to decomposition, so periodical evaluation is essential. 

There are certain measures that one can take to prevent seawall failure and you can now comprehend the true importance of seawall repair.

Since seawalls are located closer to large water supply, vegetation can be drawn to that area. Though all plants do not pose a threat, some variety can grow near to the seawall, compromising its structural integrity over time.  

As the root of the plant searches and spreads for moisture, it can crack the façade of the seawall, making it less resistant to the fierce pressure of the waves. These cracks will also allow the sea water for seeping into the seawall, damaging the materials used to build the seawall. 

Careful inspection of the seawall surface is important for ensuring that the structure is working properly. Visual inspection reveals precious information about the seawall condition. If the seawall is built from vinyl materials or concrete, find out if there are any cracks indicating deterioration and demanding seawall repair. If the seawall is made of treated wood, check for termite damage, rot or splitting. 

Seawalls deal with the tremendous pressure of sea waves regularly. For preventing the water pressure, so it can’t damage the structural fidelity of the seawall, the pressure needs to be relieved regularly. Weep holes work as pressure relief valves, diverting hazardous water pressure. 

Leaves, dirt and debris can clog up the weep holes of the seawall. It is essential to unclog the weep holes regularly, ensuring that the water moves through these filtration devices with ease. It will prevent the buildup of water pressure that can be dangerous and can damage the seawall over time. 

Plant removal, cleaning the weep holes and visual inspection on a regular basis is important to maintain the proper functionality of the seawall and to avoid unnecessary repair.