Explore how Seawall Savers tackled seawall voids and soil erosion at Four Winds Marina using advanced technology. Learn how hydrostatic pressure plays a critical role in seawall maintenance.
Seawall Savers recently addressed seawall voids and soil erosion at Four Winds Marina, a commercial marina in Bokeelia, Florida. This case study highlights the advanced repair techniques used to enhance seawall stability and protect vital coastal infrastructure.
At Four Winds Marina in Bokeelia, FL , seawall voids were threatening the stability of nearby boat racks. These racks, heavily loaded and positioned close to the seawall, worsened the risk of seawall failure. Additionally, high boat traffic contributed to the soil erosion along the seawall, further complicating the situation.
Water infiltration throughout the seawall led to cavity formation, worsened by the weight of boat racks and hydrostatic pressure. Fluctuating tides caused a vacuum effect, displacing soil and creating sinkholes. This dynamic, combined with boat-induced erosion, required urgent intervention.
Saltwater corrosion rapidly weakens concrete, steel reinforcements, and soil in Florida’s coastal areas. Many of these shorelines reclaim for development, causing them to sink and erupt gaps in seawall panels. Sediment infiltration through these gaps creates voids and sinkholes. Daily tides, waves, rainfall, and storm surges further accelerate erosion, highlighting the need for proactive repairs.
Hydrostatic pressure, is the force exerted by stationary water behind a seawall. This plays a crucial role in seawall stability. This pressure, often resulting from inadequate drainage through weep holes, can severely impact the seawall’s integrity and cause erosion. If not managed properly, it can lead to significant structural damage like voids.
Weep holes are essential for draining water from behind seawall panels and relieving hydrostatic pressure. However, the openings became clogged with debris, marine barnacles, and mangrove seeds, obstructing water flow. The blocked weep holes intensify the pressure behind the seawall, increasing the stress on the wall panels.
Seawall Savers employed the following advanced solutions to address the seawall erosion at Four Winds Marina:
Utilizes engineered plastic braces and seals to close gaps and joints.
Prevents water infiltration through vertical seams in seawall panels.
Reduces the risk of erosion and enhances overall seawall stability.
Facilitates efficient water drainage through seawall panels.
Prevents pressure buildup behind the seawall, reducing erosion risk.
Ensures smooth water flow to maintain structural integrity.
An installation of 35 “JET Filters” a maintainable weep hole filter.
A Toro 1000 supplied hydraulic energy to our submersible drills to install filters and braces.
We installed 30 “Seawall Brace Panels” in the substrate. By placing them 12 inches beneath the mud line, and 7 to 8 feet between to meet the installation requirements.
Seawall Savers provides innovative seawall repair solutions in all Southwest Florida.
Seawall Savers offers expert solutions to protect your coastal property.
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