Living near the coast has its perks — the breathtaking view, the soothing sound of waves, and the smell of saltwater in the air. But as beautiful as it may be, the shore can also be a dangerous place to live in. Coastal areas are prone to flooding and shoreline erosion, which can cause devastation to homes and properties. This is where seawalls come in — they play an essential role in protecting shores and the people living near them. This piece will discuss the importance of seawalls, the materials used to create them, and how they're constructed.

What are seawalls?

Seawalls are coastal defense structures designed to protect shorelines and properties from the damaging effects of waves and storm surges. They are typically made of durable materials such as concrete, steel, or natural stone. Seawalls prevent the erosion of shorelines, which can lead to flooding and damage to coastal structures. When properly designed and maintained, seawalls can provide long-term protection for coastal communities.

Why are seawalls important?

Seawalls are crucial for protecting coastal communities from the effects of coastal erosion and flooding. When storms hit the coast, seawalls can help reduce the energy of the waves and prevent them from reaching inland. This helps to protect properties and structures from damage and flooding. Seawalls also help to preserve the natural beauty of shorelines by preventing erosion and preserving beach sand.

Materials used to create seawalls

Seawalls can be built using a variety of materials, each with its individual strengths and weaknesses. Concrete and steel are popular choices due to their durability and strength. Natural materials such as boulder and rock armor can also be used, providing a more natural look while still providing protection. Composite materials such as geotextile sandbags are often used as temporary measures, providing quick and easy protection during storms and hurricanes.

How are seawalls constructed?

The construction of seawalls involves several stages. The first is the preparation of the site, which includes clearing the area and designing the wall's shape and size. Seawalls are built using various techniques, including pile-driven walls, gravity walls, and cantilever walls. Once the wall is constructed, it must be maintained to ensure its effectiveness. This includes inspections to identify damage and repairs when necessary.

Seawalls provide long-term protection against erosion and flooding, which can create significant damage to properties and structures. The materials used to create seawalls vary based on location and the level of protection needed. The construction of seawalls is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution. It’s important to remember that seawalls are not a foolproof solution but provide additional protection to minimize damage in case of natural disasters.  

For more info about seawall construction, contact a local company.