Florida Seawall Repair
How To Avoid Seawall Failure
Seawalls are designed to provide a defense against canals and bays on residential and commercial properties. They serve to minimize erosion from the impact of waves, and they can help ensure adequate protection to residents and guests within the property. Over time, however, seawalls become worn and damaged, which compromises the integrity of the property’s foundation. Stable Foundation Solutions, Inc. is your local foundation repair company for complete seawall repair and foundation services throughout Florida. Maintain the structural integrity of your property — contact us to schedule seawall repair.
Common Signs Of Seawall Failure
Although seawalls are made to be durable and can withstand extreme wear and pressure, they still require proper care and maintenance from experienced seawall contractors. If you notice the following signs of seawall failure, or if a retaining wall on your coastal property requires seawall repair services, contact us today. We provide industry-leading foundation solutions to residential and commercial properties throughout Florida.
Sinkholes
The formation of small sinkholes typically signal the presence of soil erosion behind seawall structures. Sinkholes can be difficult to spot without the help of a professional. As such, scheduling a foundation inspection is imperative to ensuring the stability of a seawall.
Voids
Voids may be present near the edge of the wall and (if ignored) can lead to catastrophic damage. Significant voids can diminish the structural integrity of a seawall. Depending on the soil matrix, damage may occur to structures that are up to 100 feet away from the seawall.
Cracks
Horizontal cracks in the seawall often correspond with seawall leaning or bowing — movement which allows water to penetrate through the seawall and erode soil. Voids are then formed through these cracks, creating an unstable base for the foundation of nearby structures.
What Causes Seawall Damage?
Seawall damage is often caused by normal wear-and-tear due to the impact of the natural environment, which is often unavoidable. This naturally occurring wear often leads to a loss of soil, which inevitably causes sinkholes to form and for low spots to develop along the seawall. In some cases, weep holes and vents can become clogged, which prevents water from escaping without forcing its way down and out from beneath the wall. As water escapes, the structure’s bearing weight decreases, causing the seawall to sink.
How To Maintain Seawalls
If you have seawalls on your property, it’s important to prevent them from wearing down over time, as any untreated damages may lead to the need for new seawall construction . With proper seawall maintenance, seawalls remain durable and protect your building. Although salt corrosion, tidal action, and storm surges can cause added pressure to be applied to the feature, the seawall can continue to last several decades when the necessary repairs are performed by a professional. To schedule seawall inspection and repair services, call Stable Foundation Solutions, Inc.
Unclog Weep Holes
Unclogging weep holes on a regular basis will also promote proper drainage to prevent water damage. Weep holes are designed to relieve pressure and divert dangerous water pressure to ensure everything continues to function properly. Remove dirt, leaves, and debris that can clog the holes to prevent too much water pressure from accumulating on the property.
Perform Inspections
Identify any necessary repairs or issues by performing visual inspections of the seawall every few months. If you have a vinyl seawall or a retaining wall made from concrete, be sure to inspect each part of the wall for cracks. Other signs that may indicate a compromised seawall is termite damage, splitting, and rotting in seawalls made from wood.
Eliminate Plant Growth
Plant growth is a common threat to seawalls because the vegetation is drawn to the nutrient- and moisture-rich area. Plants’ roots can begin to grow too close to the seawall and cause cracks to form in the wall as the roots absorb moisture present in the soil. As these cracks become more severe, the seawall’s impact resistance is reduced.
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