Hurricanes can destroy and damage waterfront properties! Whether residential or commercial, your seawall or bulkhead stands at the front line when hurricanes rage war on the coast. Is your seawall prepared for this coming hurricane season? Keep reading to learn the warning signs of seawall damage, when seawall repair may be needed, and proactive steps you can take to better protect your waterfront property before hurricane season arrives.
Signs of Seawall Damage
If your seawall is showing these signs of damage, it may be time for repairs, especially before hurricane season:
- Leaning: Leaning seawalls may be experiencing soil loss and water infiltration.
- Cracks: Cracks are a form of deterioration which can allow water to migrate in and soil to migrate out.
- Depressions: Depressions in the soil behind the seawall may indicate soil loss occurring.
- Deterioration: Rust, cracks, spalling, and exposed metal are all forms of deterioration.
- Damage to Nearby Structures: If nearby concrete structures such as sidewalks and patios are sinking and appear to be losing soil, they may also be affected by soil loss.
When to Get Seawall Repair
These signs of damage could mean that a seawall or bulkhead will not fare well when heavy rains and storm surges come through. Seawalls and bulkheads with these issues should be repaired before hurricanes come.
Other Tips for Preparing Your Seawall or Bulkhead for Hurricane Season
Hurricanes place tremendous stress on seawalls and bulkheads. Storm surge, wave action, and heavy rainfall can worsen existing damage, accelerate soil loss, and increase the risk of structural failure. Taking proactive steps before hurricane season can help identify vulnerabilities and improve the performance of your waterfront structure when severe weather arrives.
Schedule a Professional Inspection
One of the most important steps property owners can take is scheduling a seawall or bulkhead inspection before hurricane season begins. Existing cracks, voids, settlement, or signs of soil loss can become significantly worse during a storm. Identifying and addressing these issues early may help reduce the risk of more extensive damage.
Monitor for Soil Loss Behind the Structure
Loss of soil behind a seawall or bulkhead is often one of the earliest warning signs of trouble. Depressions in the ground, sinkholes, or areas where the soil appears to be washing away can indicate that water is moving through or beneath the structure. Hurricanes can accelerate this process, leading to additional settlement and instability.
Repair Cracks and Separations Promptly
Cracks, open joints, and separations in seawalls and bulkheads can provide pathways for water intrusion. During a hurricane, storm surge and wave action can force large volumes of water through these openings, contributing to erosion and further structural deterioration.
Address Drainage Issues
Proper drainage helps reduce hydrostatic pressure behind seawalls and bulkheads. Clogged drains, poor site grading, or other drainage problems can allow water to accumulate behind the structure, increasing stress during periods of heavy rainfall and storm surge.
Watch for Settlement Near the Waterfront Structure
Settlement affecting nearby patios, walkways, driveways, or other structures may indicate soil movement occurring behind or beneath the seawall or bulkhead. These signs are often overlooked but can signal developing issues that should be evaluated before hurricane season.
Remove Potential Impact Hazards
Loose or heavy items located near the seawall can become hazards during severe weather. Strong winds and wave action may cause these objects to strike the structure, potentially damaging already weakened sections.
Preparing for hurricanes can be a daunting task, but the more ready you are, the better protected waterfront property will be during extreme weather. Inspection and repair of seawalls and bulkheads, in conjunction with other methods of preparation, can help ensure your property is ready when the time comes. Contact Precision Foundation Services for inspection and repair of your seawall before hurricane season is in full swing.