Why Soil Erosion Deteriorates Seawalls
Seawalls and bulkheads serve as critical barriers, protecting coastlines from the relentless force of water. However, even the most durable structures can weaken over time due to constant exposure to the elements. One of the biggest threats they face is soil erosion—a process that gradually undermines their stability and effectiveness. In this article, we’ll explore how soil erosion affects seawalls and bulkheads and why addressing this issue is crucial for long-term shoreline protection.
Causes of Soil Erosion and How it Affects Seawalls and Bulkheads
How Soil Erosion Affects Seawalls and Bulkheads
- Loss of Structural Support – As soil washes away, voids form behind the seawall, reducing the support it needs to withstand water pressure.
- Increased Pressure & Cracking – Pressure from trapped water can cause cracks, bowing, or tilting of the structure.
- Undermining & Collapse – Severe erosion beneath the foundation can cause seawalls and bulkheads to shift, settle, or collapse.
- Gaps & Sinkholes – Soil loss often leads to noticeable gaps between the seawall and adjacent land, sometimes resulting in sinkholes or uneven ground.
- Costly Repairs & Failure Risks – Without intervention, continued erosion can lead to extensive damage, requiring expensive repairs or full replacement.
How Soil Erosion Affects Seawalls and Bulkheads
- Loss of Structural Support – As soil washes away, voids form behind the seawall, reducing the support it needs to withstand water pressure.
- Increased Pressure & Cracking – Pressure from trapped water can cause cracks, bowing, or tilting of the structure.
- Undermining & Collapse – Severe erosion beneath the foundation can cause seawalls and bulkheads to shift, settle, or collapse.
- Gaps & Sinkholes – Soil loss often leads to noticeable gaps between the seawall and adjacent land, sometimes resulting in sinkholes or uneven ground.
- Costly Repairs & Failure Risks – Without intervention, continued erosion can lead to extensive damage, requiring expensive repairs or full replacement.
The Groundworks Solution for Soil Erosion
Groundworks addresses soil erosion behind seawalls and bulkheads with polyurethane injection, a cutting-edge solution that restores stability without the need for extensive excavation or reconstruction. This method effectively strengthens the soil, seals leaks, and extends the life of the structure.
How Polyurethane Injection Works:
- Identifying Void Areas – Technicians assess the seawall or bulkhead to locate areas where soil has eroded, creating voids or instability.
- Drilling Small Injection Holes – Small, strategically placed holes are drilled into the affected areas behind or beneath the seawall.
- Injecting Expanding Polyurethane – A specialized polyurethane foam is injected into the voids. As the material expands, it displaces water, compacts loose soil, and fills gaps.
- Stabilization & Load Support – The expanding polyurethane solidifies, creating a durable, water-resistant support system that reinforces the seawall and prevents further soil loss.
- Sealing Leaks & Improving Drainage – The polyurethane acts as a barrier, stopping water infiltration and reducing water pressure that contributes to erosion.
- Long-Lasting Protection – Once cured, the polyurethane forms a strong, lightweight, and non-invasive reinforcement that extends the lifespan of the seawall or bulkhead.
This minimally invasive repair method allows for fast installation, no heavy machinery, and immediate results, making it a cost-effective and reliable solution to combat soil erosion and restore structural integrity.
Protect Your Seawall with Groundworks
Soil erosion is a serious threat to the longevity of seawalls and bulkheads, but it doesn’t have to lead to costly replacements or structural failure. By addressing erosion early with polyurethane injection, you can restore stability, prevent further damage, and extend the life of your seawall.
If you’ve noticed gaps, cracks, or sinking near your seawall or bulkhead, Groundworks offers a proven solution to reinforce and protect your shoreline. Contact our team today to learn more about how polyurethane injection can help keep your seawall strong for years to come.
