If you require a seawall repair, the first step is getting a trusted professional opinion. You don’t want to spend a great deal of money on a quick fix only to have to repeat the process soon afterward. Everlast Synthetic Products can offer you expert advice. Let us evaluate your situation before it becomes an emergency. When it comes to seawall repairs, it pays to do it right the first time.
When Are Seawall Repairs Appropriate?
Keep in mind, however, that a seawall repair is not always the solution to the problem and can often be like putting a patch over a critical wound. Repairing small portions at a time can become an ongoing maintenance issue where ultimately good money goes after bad.
If your wall is relatively new and was damaged by a specific isolated event, repair might be called for. ESP, as experts in marine engineering and application, is extremely qualified to make that determination. For more information on the costs associated with seawalls, please check out our Cost of a Seawall page.
When you need seawall repair, contact Everlast Synthetic Products first. One of our engineers will meet with you to analyze your individual situation. Our team will inform you about the industry’s leading products and materials, perform a soil analysis, and conduct an engineering evaluation of your existing structure.
Changes in the general lay of the land along the waterfront can make a difference in the adequacy of a structure built many years ago. Additionally, the loss of wetlands has caused higher tides in many areas. A barrier constructed twenty years ago may no longer offer adequate protection and can’t compete with new materials like our vinyl sheet piling. Why repair something if it is due to fail in the near future? [The article “The Best Materials for Seawalls” at sciencing.com does a good job explaining the value of vinyl seawalls compared to other options.]
The Facts On Seawall Repair
If your seawall needs fixing, it’s better to care of it sooner rather than later. Putting off a seawall repair can lead to major erosion of property as the issue will continuously worsen while your vulnerability to storms and high tides increases.
Each seawall is subject to decay for a variety of reasons. Materials used can really make or break the long-term condition of your seawall. Understanding the varying pitfalls that come with specific materials used can help you determine whether you need a seawall repair or a seawall rebuild:
- Wood. This type of construction is subject to decay, borers (tunneling creatures that feast on submerged timber), and just plain wearing away from the constant motion of water and sand. When these walls begin to collapse, complete replacement with a superior material like co-extruded vinyl is usually the best solution. Repairs to wood must be repeated and will become a frustration – like shoveling sand against the tide.
- Concrete. Concrete contains iron rebar that begins to rust and eventually loses its reinforcement capability. Concrete will begin to crack and give way from the pressure of the land. Patching concrete below the water does not work. Entire sections must be replaced. Other sections will soon follow. Replacement with a superior and more attractive material, like vinyl, is the best option in most cases.
- Steel. Once steel begins to rust and becomes unsightly and weak there is no reversing the process.
- Aluminum. Like steel, the corrosion of aluminum is irreversible. Contrary to popular belief, aluminum breaks down with repeated exposure to saltwater due to a chemical reaction caused by minerals in the water.
A Stable Solution
The best seawall repair alternative is a co-extruded, interlocking, vinyl sheet product. These panels are made from an ultra UV-resistant cap layer, that is applied to a very strong and resilient vinyl layer. This produces a colorfast, extremely attractive product that can be driven deep and then capped to provide a bulkhead of enduring beauty and superior strength. It will not corrode, decay, fade, crack, or change in any way – and it is guaranteed for 50 years. To learn more about our innovative products please check out our Seawall Engineering page.
Let us show you the best options before you consider sinking money into a declining structure. Everlast Synthetic Products manufactures and installs seawalls and many other marine products across the entire US and worldwide.
For more information on seawall repairs or rebuilds that last, get in touch with us today or REQUEST A FREE ESTIMATE. Do not allow your valuable waterfront property to be at risk any longer.