How Seawalls Provide Flood Protection For Seafront Homes
Seawalls protect the soil from erosion with a body of water. In case you have observed a seawall on the beach,just know that seawalls on the lake serve the same function. Just on a much,much smaller scale! A seawall is usually made from wood,stone,concrete or steel.
Recently,synthetic materials are becoming more popular. These structures serve three different purposes on the lake.
First of all,they protect property from erosion,flooding or poor drainage. Secondly,a seawall helps preserve water depth. This is especially important if you enjoy boating,fishing,or other similar tasks on your piece of the lake. Finally,seawalls can give your house an attractive,finished look. Especially if your house is on a slope,it can make your property much more attractive.
If you own a home on the waterfront,you may be responsible for a seawall. Do not let this intimidate you! Seawalls typically require very little upkeep. Periodic visual inspection and minor repairs should compose the majority of your”chores.”
You may want to build a seawall on your property. If so,check your local regulations. Most lakes have prerequisites for any shore construction. By way of example,the Tennessee Valley Authority requires you to submit an application for any shore stabilization project.
Knowing regulations beforehand can help you avoid wasting money on a project you can’t finish. It can also provide you with guidelines on the most effective ways to construct your seawall.
Repairs and Maintenance
Inspect your seawall regularly so as 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 as a result of age.
Care and repair techniques will differ depending upon the materials used.
If you don’t understand the local guidelines on maintaining a seawall,ask your neighbors. Most lake communities have resources available to help homeowners keep their piece of the shoreline.
Don’t hesitate to ask for help!
Seawall Materials
Seawalls can be constructed from very different materials.
- Concrete: This is typical for many different seawalls. Simply patch any small cracks or holes in the concrete so that they don’t spread. If you find too much damage to repair by yourself,call a specialist.
- Steel: Steel sheet piling is common 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 continues through being exposed to water.
- Wood: You may see wooden seawalls in more residential and rural areas. Just like steel,it should be treated properly so as to last.
- Riprap: Many homeowners prefer riprap because of its more natural look. Riprap is a barrier of very large stones across the waterline. The rock can be granite,granite,concrete or other materials. Repair is extremely basic,and typically consists of replacing any broken or scattered riprap.
- Vinyl or Vinyl: This is a newer,more economical product. It offers about 50 years of life and comes in many different colours. On the downside,synthetic materials can be difficult to install. If you decide to install this type of seawall,hire a professional.
Commercial flood protection Stopping Erosion
Erosion occurs to all land. Of course,this is particularly true for those properties located by the water.
Rain,wind and the components can eat away at any house over time. This can result in complications to any dwelling on the shore.
Planting extra plant or plant can provide your soil additional protection. Incidental erosion just past the seawall can occur,as well,so keep a look out for water pooling behind it.
For more natural seawall materials,such as riprap,encourage natural vegetation. Plant growth will actually provide your seawall equilibrium,and allow it to blend into the rest of your property.
After any major storm or flood,give your seawall a visual inspection to make sure it did not sustain any damage.
With only a little attention,this unassuming structure can protect you and your lake home for decades to come.
