Seawalls are crucial for protecting coastal areas and waterfront buildings from erosion, flooding, and the destructive power of water. However, in order to get the most out of your seawall, you will need to ensure it is properly maintained and repaired. One of the most important parts of seawall maintenance is bulkhead sealing.
Here’s why bulkhead sealing is essential for seawall performance and durability:
- Prevents Water Intrusion: Water will not leak through the seawall’s seams or cracks when it is properly sealed. This is key, as uncontrolled water incursion can erode the seawall’s foundation, causing erosion and structural instability.
- Minimizes Soil Loss: A cracked bulkhead permits backfill dirt to leak out through minor fractures and holes. Soil loss behind the seawall can result in sinkholes, damage neighboring landscaping, and diminish the barrier’s ability to withstand pressure.
- Enhances Structural integrity: Bulkhead sealing helps guarantee the seawall can withstand hydrostatic pressure on both sides. In doing so, the life of the bulkhead is enhanced thanks to reduced internal water penetration, which could result in significant damage.
- Protects Property Investments: A damaged seawall requires costly repairs and increases the risk of property damage during storms or high tides. Sealing the bulkhead safeguards your investment by ensuring the seawall’s performance and reliability.
- Reduces Maintenance Costs: Routine bulkhead sealing is a low-cost way to avoid more expensive repairs caused by erosion and structural deterioration. Additionally, regular inspections and sealing guarantee that minor concerns are addressed before they become bigger issues.