Choose a Residential Seawall Design
A seawall is a barrier that will protect your home and property from flooding and erosion. If you have no experience with this type of feature, explore various options that work well for your property type, the body of water that borders the land, and your preferences.
Calm or Choppy Waters?
If your home borders a pond, a lake, or another freshwater source that is relatively calm, a low-lying barrier may be all that is needed. When watercraft move through the water, waves may form, which would validate your decision to have a seawall installed. Additionally, if you live in an area with poor drainage and heavy rain has been an issue in the past, a seawall will block the excess water from crossing your property.
With a natural body of water, you can choose a seawall that is made up of stones, rocks, steel, concrete, or a combination of some of these materials. If you are concerned about the eco-friendliness of the barrier and would like to maintain a natural shoreline, stones, or rocks will provide effective protection without diminishing the beauty of the shoreline.
If you are more concerned about the uncertainty of a vast amount of water crossing your land and saturating areas that are already water-logged due to poor drainage, a taller structure that is constructed of steel beams or concrete will be more efficient. The design can consist of straight or curved sides and the entire wall does not need to be the same height if various parts of your property slope and there is a higher need for a taller barricade in some sections.
Ocean Water and Rough Conditions?
Living next to the ocean may have made it necessary to accustom yourself to high tides and the rising waters that may cross your property. Because waves can heighten during hurricanes or other wind events, a tall durable barrier may be needed. A contractor who installs seawalls may suggest a concrete barrier that contains steel reinforcements.
Steel can be installed across many land types, including ones that contain a marshy or a firm surface. With a concrete seawall, the design is equally as important as the materials used to erect the barrier. Be mindful of any renovations that you will be completing on your land, your access to the water, and your vantage point, to guide you in choosing a functional and attractive wall style.
If you're ready to learn more, contact seawall design engineers.