How Seawalls Provide Flood Protection For Seafront Homes
Seawalls protect the land from erosion with a body of water. In case you have seen a seawall on the shore, just know that seawalls on the lake serve the same function. A seawall is usually made of wood, stone, steel or concrete.
| aluminum piling |
In recent years, synthetic materials are becoming more popular. These structures serve three different purposes on the lake.
To begin with, they protect property from erosion, flooding or poor drainage. Secondly, a seawall helps preserve water depth. This is especially important when you like boating, fishing, or other similar tasks on your bit of the lake. In the end, seawalls may give your property an attractive, finished look. Especially if your property is on a slope, it can make your property far more attractive.
If you own a home on the waterfront, you may be liable for a seawall. Don’t let this intimidate you! Seawalls typically require very little maintenance. Periodic visual inspection and minor repairs should make up the vast majority of your”chores.”
You may choose to construct a seawall on your premises. If so, check the local regulations. Most lakes have prerequisites for any shore structure. By way of example, the Tennessee Valley Authority requires you to fill out an application for any shore stabilization project.
Knowing regulations beforehand can help you avoid wasting money on a project you can not finish. It can also give you guidelines on the most effective ways to build your seawall.
Inspect your seawall regularly in order to identify any problems before major issues arise.
If your seawall is fresh, be vigilant and make note of any sinkholes or cracks. Other defects may occur due to age.
Care and repair techniques will fluctuate depending upon the materials used.
Most lake communities have resources available to help homeowners keep their bit of the shoreline.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help!
Seawall Materials
Seawalls can be built from very different substances.
Simply patch any little holes or cracks in the concrete so that they don’t disperse. If you find too much damage to repair on your own, call a professional.
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Steel: Steel sheet piling is typical for both seawalls and bulkheads. The material provides a amazing strength and will last around 25 years. It should be treated properly to ensure that it lasts through being exposed to water.
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Wood: You will see wooden seawalls in more rural and residential areas. Just like steel, it should be treated properly in order to last.
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Riprap: Many homeowners prefer riprap for its more natural appearance. Riprap is a barrier of very large stones across the waterline. The stone can be granite, limestone, concrete or other materials. Repair is very basic, and typically includes replacing any broken or scattered riprap.
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Vinyl or Plastic: This is a newer, more economical product. It offers about 50 years of life and comes in many different colors. On the downside, synthetic substances can be hard to install. If you decide to install this sort of seawall, hire an expert.
| commercial flood protection |
Stopping Erosion
Erosion happens to all land. Naturally, this is especially true for those properties located by the water.
Rain, wind and the elements can eat away at any property over time. This may result in complications to any dwelling on the shore.
Planting extra grass or vegetation may give your soil extra protection. Incidental erosion just past the seawall can occur, too, so keep an eye out for water pooling behind it.
For more natural seawall substances, such as riprap, promote natural vegetation. Plant growth will actually give your seawall stability, and allow it to blend in to the rest of your premises.
After any major storm or flood, give your seawall a visual inspection to be certain it didn’t sustain any damage.