Bulkheads, retaining walls, seawalls…referred to as all of the above, these barriers maintain the integrity of commercial and private properties.
As such, they require consistent inspections and maintenance so they may continue to do the job they are designed to do.
What Are Florida Seawalls?
Available in a variety of materials including, wood seawalls, rip rap seawalls and of course landscaping retaining walls, vinyl sheet piling offers a sleek appearance while being flexible to install.
What’s So Great About Vinyl Seawalls?
- They’re Durable
Resistant to damage from the intense UV rays of the sun, the rot associated with wood structures, the corrosion of traditional materials, and the destruction caused by marine borers, vinyl is a popular option for seawalls projects of all shapes and scopes because they have longevity. Their purpose being to withstand and resist the elements, particularly those harsh Florida ones, vinyl is a hearty material.
- They Offer Great Warranties
Because they are typically not the most inexpensive structures, vinyl seawalls are key because they carry exceptional warranties. With a reputable marine construction company like Gibson, you can add a 25-year workmanship warranty on top of that!
- Easier to Install
Most homeowners look forward to the start of their renovation projects. After going through making all the associated decisions and the selection process, these seawalls are erected with a speed that can’t be compared to the install of other materials. As invasive as any home construction projects can be, the design, installation and construction of seawalls can be done comparatively quickly.
- Vinyl Seawalls Are Cost Effective
In general, these are less expensive than the alternatives; and most of that reason is because the time spent on labor is less. As labor is generally the largest component of any project, this reduction in cost is a welcome one.
Seawall Restoration
According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection on the criteria that must be met:
- Seawall to be replaced is functional (no cracks or breaks which allow water to flow through the wall)
- Replacement seawall is constructed at its previous location, upland of its previous location, or within one foot waterward of its previous location
- No filling done besides that used in the actual restoration of the seawall or riprap
- No construction is done without necessary title or leasehold interest, especially where private and public ownership boundaries have changed as a result of natural events such as deposition, erosion, or exposure of land due to a drop in water levels.
They also cite seawall alternatives including:
Alternatives to Seawalls:
- Retaining walls- identical to a seawall but all portions of the wall are in the uplands. Retaining walls may be built without a permit from DEP.
- Vegetation-nature’s way of preventing erosion along a shoreline. Plants can be used alone or in combination with other methods.
- Riprap slopes-loose boulders, rocks, or clean concrete rubble placed along the shoreline. A permit may be required for installation of riprap slopes.
To truly effect a resilient, functional yet beautiful barrier between the water and the land, it takes craftsmanship combined with quality materials for an effective barrier system that can resist corrosion, insect infestation, and the wear and tear imposed by the sun, the tides, and the winds levied during Florida’s hurricane season.