8 Different Types of Seawalls

Life is beautiful, especially in the ocean. However, such tranquillity is disrupted by erosion.

Powerful waves are a constant threat that erodes the coastline on any beach, causing loose sands and heavy stones to crash against each other.

With time, this causes the coastline to wear away, destroying properties and even causing loss of lives. For years, there has not been an effective solution to this. But things have changed.

As an important part of socio-economic development, the construction of seawalls plays a crucial role in protecting lives and coastline properties. Indeed, what is a seawall and how many types are available? In this post, we discuss eight different types of seawalls.

What are Seawalls?

A seawall is a physical barrier or wall designed to prevent ocean waves from eroding or invading properties close to the ocean. They are effective at reducing the impact of erosion, hence a perfect solution for maintaining coastal properties.

For those who have built houses or other structures around coastlines, seawalls are ideal for protecting your investment and also the lives of the people around.

8 Types of Seawalls

For those who have built houses or other structures around coastlines, seawalls are ideal for protecting your investment and also the lives of the people around.

1. Timber seawalls

Timber seawalls can help prevent soil erosion around a property and also create a stunning natural appearance. While timber seawalls’ benefits look/sound appealing, these seawalls may require more maintenance especially in sites where erosion is more devastating.

However, how often you maintain timber seawalls hugely depends on the environment, the weather conditions during the seawall’s life, and the type of materials used.

2. Cobblestone seawall

The cobblestone seawall is built using large rocks/stones piled on gravel, dirt, and small stones, which are held together with mortar. They are aesthetically pleasing and are usually constructed in less demanding areas where the wave action is weak.

3. Concrete seawall

A concrete seawall is constructed using large blocks (or other metal reinforcements) on concrete. This type of seawall is extremely durable and requires little maintenance. Concrete seawalls are used in areas where frequent and heavy waves often disrupt the shoreline.

The panels used to build this seawall can be designed to reflect the structure’s overall appearance or customized to mirror the appearance you seek.

4. Sheet pile seawalls

Sheet pile seawalls are anchored deep in the soil and reinforced with large rocks at the base for added support. These seawalls may not be as aesthetically pleasing as other forms of seawalls; however, they are very effective at preventing soil erosion and deflecting waves.

Sheet pile seawalls are ideal for areas that see light to moderate wave action and soil erosion due to severe storms.

5. Riprap

Probably the commonest type of seawall, riprap seawalls entails a combination of small and large stones and other chunks of concrete to protect river banks or armour coastlines. Riprap has the capacity to dissipate the waves’ force before reaching the soil behind the rocks.

They are used to reinforce the bases of older seawalls and also to prevent soil erosion in areas that see low to moderate wave action during storms.

6. Vinyl seawall

Vinyl seawall provides an effective buffer against waves that may erode properties, especially during emergency weather. They help to prevent homeowners from losing soil and rocks throughout their property. Note that vinyl seawalls have a lifespan of about 20 years.

Over time, vinyl seawalls will reduce the use of these breakwaters and property. With regular inspection and maintenance though, one can extend their lifespan while preparing financially for their replacement.

7. Composite seawall

A composite seawall is made of pre-coloured materials that are easy to install on your property. Although not as strong as steel or concrete seawalls, composite seawalls will be more likely to maintain their appearance over time than other materials.

The composite seawall is ideal for installation in difficult-to-reach areas or where the ecological environment must be maintained.

8. Steel seawall

Steel seawall is extremely durable as steel can withstand various weather conditions. Considering the life span and cost of installation, steel seawall is a wise choice. However, beware that over time, steel will corrode or rust, especially when exposed to saltwater.

Another important consideration before installing steel seawall is that installing and moving steel can be extremely difficult as it may require heavy equipment to move to specific sensitive areas.

The Bottom Line

Before choosing what geotextile wall or geotextile installation to use, ensure to carefully evaluate every option.

For property close to the ocean, it is a must to prepare for the potential danger of floods and other natural disasters that could cause massive damage. By constructing and maintaining a seawall, a loss can be prevented and lives can be saved.