Types of Seawalls and Bulkheads Available Using Treated Pilings

[Posted on July 10th, 2014 by Aaron Presley]

Treated pilings are important for the creation of reliable bulkheads. The treatment will help to ensure that wood can withstand the freshwater or seawater it may be submerged into to support the structure. Many people who live near the water may be interested in building a bulkhead or seawall but they wonder about the advantages and disadvantages of the different structures and designs available and what they should choose. Given the annoyance that some people express at the thought of a structure being built, it is clear that many people are not entirely sure exactly what the purpose of the structure even is. Here is what all people should be familiar with when it comes to bulkheads and seawalls.

The Purpose of the Seawall and Bulkhead

These structures are designed to protect beaches from storm surges and erosion from waves and water activity. Waterfront properties may find themselves facing considerable damage from the water when storms arise, even if the property does not typically experience many waves. A well built seawall or bulkhead will protect the land from storm surges, toe scours, overtopping from waves, and the force that can come from a direct hit by a wave.

Steel bulkheads

These bulkheads are designed to ensure that the front can absorb all the wave energy. The pilings are typically made of sheets and are designed by a highly specialized engineer. Everything must be done with precision to ensure the wall will withstand the needed force. Needless to say, these bulkheads offer considerable more strength than vinyl bulkhead material.

Timber wall bulkheads

Round treated pilings are often used in these bulkheads, which are constructed from two rows of three inch plank sheeting. Everything is carefully tied to the anchor piling. It is most often used where the sand deposit is between 12 and 15 feet below the lake bottom.

Timber crib bulkheads

This bulkhead uses heavy duty timber cribs that have a stable source of backfill. The backfill must be able to drain by itself and be able to avoid erosion.

Wire fence bulkhead

These structures may resemble fences, and can be made from timber, metal posts, lumber, or wire fence. The number of rows and general design can also change. The most important feature is that the pilings are long, the compartment to hold stone in the middle in strong, and that the structure is anchored into the embankment.

When it comes to building bulkheads and seawalls, there are a number of options and considerations that people must make when determining the right structure for them. The combination of the strength of treated pilings and the expert designs result in a structure that can help protect the land near water from erosion and the force of the waves. Those interested in learning more about the bulkhead and seawall options should speak a professional to see what may be the best choice for a particular situation.