If you own any type of property right on the coast, having a seawall that is in good condition is essential. A seawall plays an important role in preventing coastal erosion and can also protect property from unusually high tides, large waves, and storm surges. A properly built seawall is designed to be incredibly durable and long-lasting, but since a seawall is continuously exposed to the ocean, it can develop issues and problems that require professional repairs. In the event that your seawall becomes damaged, it is important to have repairs made as quickly as possible. Some common signs that a seawall is in need of repairs include:

Signs of Rusting

Rebar is typically used when constructing seawalls to help ensure that they are as structurally sound as possible. The rebar is placed in the middle of the seawall and should not be exposed to water. However, if a seawall becomes damaged and the rebar comes in contact with water, it will start to rust and corrode. When this happens, you may notice rust-colored stains or cracks on your seawall. Rusting rebar can expand, which can cause the seawall to develop cracks and eventually fail if the issue is not fixed. If you notice any signs of rust stains on your seawall, it is essential to have repairs made as quickly as possible.

Presence of Sinkholes

If your property has a seawall, it is in your best interest to inspect it on a regular basis. When inspecting the seawall and surrounding area, keep your eyes out for the presence of sinkholes. If a sinkhole develops near a seawall, it usually means that water is seeping in from under the structure and allowing the soil to shift. A seawall is supposed to keep water away, so if excess moisture is seeping in, repairs need to be made.

Weep Holes Become Clogged

Seawalls have weep holes, which are small openings that allow for drainage from the land side of the seawall. Over time, a seawall's weep holes can become clogged, and when that happens, a lot of pressure can build up. If clogged weep holes are not repaired, a seawall can develop large cracks and eventually the seawall can fail altogether. If you notice major drainage issues on the land side of your seawall, contact a professional to inspect the weep holes to see if they need to be repaired. 

For more information, reach out to a professional who provides seawall repairs.