Seawalls 101

Seawall Installation Guidelines

Seawall Installation Guidelines.

  1. Always set a drive guide or template to assure a straight, firm surface to drive sheets against. NEVER ATTEMPT TO DRIVE SHEETS ALONG A STRING LINE ONLY. Run a string line and set temporary posts (usually 4 x 4 posts) where the completed wall will stand. This drive guide (generally a 4 x 6 or 6 x 6) is tack nailed, c clamped, or screwed into the temporary posts. This drive guide can become part of the permanent wale/cap system for a wood capped wall. For a more in-depth, comprehensive guide to building a seawall, please see our How to Build and Install a Seawall post.
    seawall installation driving guide
    Driving Guide
  2. Thread a pair of sheets and drive in pairs. This will decrease seawall installation time as well as help keep the sheets plumb and straight. Upon reaching desired embedment, screw a lag screw into the flange of the leading Sheet. NOTE: IT IS CRITICAL TO GET THE 1ST PAIR OF SHEETS STRAIGHT AND PLUMB AS THE REST OF THE WALL WILL FOLLOW SUIT.
    sea wall installation driving pairs
    Driving In Pairs
  3. Be sure to level each pair of sheets in both the vertical and horizontal directions and continue driving down the length of the wall. It is recommended to lead with the male lock so that soil and debris can easily escape through the female.
  4. Continue installation by installing front or back waler to wall utilizing carriage bolts or all-thread(AT) rod. Carriage bolts(or AT) should be used every 2’ –3’ between tie rods.
    securing waler boards in seawall installation
    Securing waler boards
  5. The tie rods will be secured through the front and back waler to a deadman behind the wall.
    seawall installation tie rods secured to dead men
    Tie Rods secured to dead men
  6. Complete the process by fastening the top cap board. This board is generally a 2 x 12 pressure treated board or deck boards that run perpendicular to the walers.
    seawalls installation top cap
    Top Cap
Inquire today about accessories for your seawall that E.S.P offers. We inventory a large supply of both hot dipped galvanized and stainless steel fasteners, tie rods, carriage bolts, nuts, washers, and all thread rod. Let Everlast Synthetic Products be your one stop depot for all of your seawall installation needs.

Ready To Get Started?

Whether you are just looking for a free project estimate, have questions about your seawall, or are looking to get started on your project we are ready to help!