More Marine Construction Structures: Seawalls and Revetments

The previous post focused on the differences between retaining walls and bulkheads. To refresh your memory on the topic, please click here.

In this post, we will expand the discussion to include two more types of marine construction structures and learn what differences set them apart.

Seawalls

A seawall is the most common type of marine construction structure, and people often refer to all marine construction structures as seawalls. However, like each structure type, it is slightly different.

To the naked eye, a seawall and a bulkhead can look almost identical. And, just like a bulkhead, a seawall retains earth on one side of the wall and has water on the other side. But what sets the seawall apart from a bulkhead is it’s functional capabilities. In addition to holding soil in place, a seawall also performs the function of protecting the property from wave action. Seawalls are designed to withstand the constant impact of waves crashing into them and periodic occasions of significant pressure caused by larger storm surges often attributed to hurricanes.

Revetments

The general appearance of a revetment differs from that of retaining walls, bulkheads, and seawalls. A revetment typically has a sloped appearance instead of the more common perpendicular appearance of the other structures. But the biggest difference is the primary function it serves, to slow or help prevent erosion.

Protect Your Property with a Seawall or Revetment

The type of protection your property needs will be the determining factor when deciding between a seawall and a revetment. The marine construction experts at Gibson Marine Construction can guide you to ensure you get the right type of structure in place to properly protect your property. Call today to learn more.