The life expectancy of a seawall is generally about 35 years on average. However, it can vary, depending on the following factors:

• Type of seawall (steel, outcropping, rip rap)
• Extent of maintenance
• Quality of installation

Steel seawalls typically last around 35 years or so, but other types of seawalls are generally more durable because they are made of rock. When given due care and maintenance, they might even last a lifetime. The installation process is critical and improper installation can reduce the seawall’s lifetime by 10-15 years. A major reason for seawall failure is that they are not deep enough. A seawall should be as deep as it is high in order to support itself. Thus, you should be careful about the seawall service you choose (we reckon it’s Coast Seawall).

Seawall damage can be due to different reasons, but the signs of damage are generally quite obvious. Still, the warning signs will depend on the type of seawall you have, so it might not be the same for everyone. And this is exactly why you need a professional inspection of your seawall every now and then. Nevertheless, here are the things you need to look out for, depending on the type of seawall you have installed:

• Steel seawalls- leaks, corrosion, and cracks
• Riprap- dislodged stones in need of replacement
• Outcropping- separation between the slabs

We suggest you get professional help because preserving the longevity of a seawall requires the attention of a trained professional. We are here to help!

You can maintain your seawall on your own, while stil enlisting the aid of a professional every 5 years. You can  seal minor cracks and holes with marine gout. You can watch for any plant growth. Weep holes are also dangerous, especially when clogged- so you will want to watch out for them to prevent your seawall from failing. You can spray a waterproofing solution on your seawall to provide protection against water erosion.

Seawall damage is not necessarily always major damage. In fact, minor damage is fairly easy to fix during routine maintenance. The real problem is when you prolong the time between damages and repair. For instance, a sagging steel seawall is likely to be replaced, or a seawall with major breaches that allow the soil to drain into the water will also require considerable repairs. When in doubt, make sure to schedule an appointment with one of our trained professionals!