Do Concrete Seawalls Provide Protection from Storm Waves?

Proper Concrete Seawall Construction Offers Coastal Areas Protection

 

During storms, high winds and surging waves can cause a great deal of damage to the ecosystems, businesses, and homes that line coastal areas. One good way of protecting coastal areas from storm surge is to construct a seawall. Seawalls can be made of a variety of materials, but one of the best in concrete. Here is what you need to know about concrete seawall construction.

Different Types of Seawalls

 

A seawall is basically a barrier that prevents water from the ocean from moving onto the shore and flooding whatever is in its path. They are commonly made from a number of different materials.

Steel seawalls are sturdy and cost-effective to build, but they have a tendency to corrode at an accelerated rate when in the saltwater environment, which means they have to be repaired or replaced more often.  Steel is quite heavy as well, so moving it for repairs, etc. can be challenging.

Vinyl seawalls are another popular choice. Vinyl is less expensive and pretty easy to install but tends to only have a lifespan of about 20 years, which is shorter than other materials. 

Composite seawalls are quick and easy to install. They can be an effective choice in areas that are hard to access.

The best type of seawall is concrete. Concrete seawall construction is effective and longer-lasting than the other materials. Concrete wall construction is your best bet for a long term, reliable protection against the surging sea.

Benefits of Concrete Seawall Construction

 

One of the best benefits of concrete seawall construction is that they last for so long. A concrete seawall will last in the vicinity of 30 years. Concrete itself is strong, but its functionality is increased by including steel reinforcements. The best concrete seawall construction is done by encasing with low-corroding steel reinforcements with concrete. It’s solid and sturdy.

Concrete seawalls are relatively low-maintenance. While you while have to do some repairs and maintenance over time, they are generally things like repairing cracks or small holes, which is much easier than a full replacement.

Concrete seawall construction produces a more aesthetically pleasing product, as the concrete is less prone to corrosion. Their smooth exterior is more streamlined, which some find more appealing to look at.

Don’t DIY Concrete Seawall Construction

 

If you’ve got waterfront property, there’s a good chance you are particularly concerned about the potential for damage from storm surge. It is tempting to try to tackle this job DIY, but don’t do it. Concrete seawall construction is technical, heavy work that has to be done properly if it is going to be effective. It requires professional training and equipment. Cutting corners here may mean damage and destruction to your property from storm surge that won’t be contained by a faulty seawall. Call the best seawall company for your sea wall needs. 

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