A Miami seawall is a structure that helps protect the surrounding area from the damaging effects of hurricanes and tidal flooding. As sea levels rise, parts of Miami regularly experience “sunny day flooding,” when salt water penetrates high-rise parking garages and basements.
With sea level predicted to rise, this flooding is expected to become more frequent, as tidal waves add to the already high water. In addition, storm surges add to the damage from hurricanes, which have even more devastating potential. As a result, the Army Corps of Engineers is working on a plan for a Miami sea wall.
Leaning seawalls
As a coastal town, Miami is particularly vulnerable to seawall collapse and leaning. Water seeps into seawalls, causing cracks and weakening the structure. Leaking water can also cause erosion and erode the surrounding ground, making seawalls prone to collapse. In addition, seawalls that bulge can expose the foundations of nearby structures to water damage. This can be a dangerous situation, especially for residents who are reliant on the seawall for protection.
Bowing seawalls
Sea walls protect the city from storm surges, but they don’t necessarily keep the water out. Over time, water may seep through the limestone and eventually be pumped out. There are 60 miles of sea walls in Miami Beach alone, most of which are privately owned. Here are some things to watch out for. Listed below are some of the most common warning signs that your seawall is in danger. Listed below are some ways to check for signs of seawall failure.
Damaged seawalls
While damaged seawalls in Miami are no fun to visit, you can learn about them from experts in the field. For example, a seawall built in Miami-Dade County must have a base of rocks, called riprap, to stop waves. This pile of rocks can also encourage the growth of mangrove trees. In an attempt to combat this problem, scientists at the University of Miami created a new design: SEAHIVE, a type of seawall that looks like a six-sided honeycomb.
The first step in repairing a seawall is to unclog the weep holes in the bottom of the wall. Unclogging these holes helps promote proper drainage and diverts dangerous water pressure away from the seawall. If you find cracks in a concrete retaining wall or vinyl seawall, it’s time for a seawall repair. You may also find termite damage or split wood on the seawall.
Poly foam seawall repair
A polyurethane resin is a common choice for seawall repair in Miami, Florida. This durable material fills voids and cracks along a seawall’s surface, forming a water-tight mass that withstands erosion. The resin is durable and flexible, and it is suited to repair a wide variety of structural problems, from settling buildings to cracked highway slabs. Unlike traditional cement and steel repair methods, polyurethane fills tiny holes and creates a watertight mass that is highly durable and strong.
Seawalls in Miami are essential for coastal protection, but damage can occur. A broken or cracked seawall allows water to seep in, damaging nearby buildings and property. A seawall that is cracked or missing entirely is not only unsightly, but also an expensive proposition. Seawall repair services are an important part of coastal property maintenance, as well as a critical investment that may be in danger of deterioration.
DIY seawall repair
If you live in a coastal community, you may be tempted to do a DIY seawall repair in Miami. These structures, built on the bed of a waterway, are prone to cracking and other damages. While temporary fixes can save you money, the integrity of a seawall is at risk. Whether you use concrete or marine grout, you’ll want to hire a professional to ensure the integrity of the structure.
Before undertaking a DIY seawall repair in Miami, you need to make sure you have the proper equipment. If you don’t have a power tool, you’ll need to remove the existing wall and replace it with a new one. Make sure you carefully inspect the seawall to determine its condition.
You should also remove old boards and replace them with new ones to prevent the seawater from washing away the structure. While you should check the condition of metal posts every five years, they might need to be replaced if they’re loose. Another thing to consider is the size of the gravel or rock that you’ll use. Large gravel or rock is less likely to be washed away, so it’s more effective at reducing wave action.