There’s a lot of coastline out there, and people like to be near it. However, when oceans meet land, there can be issues, like erosion and surf, that must be dealt with to ensure a healthy landscape is maintained. Different types of marine construction are utilized for creating and maintaining safe environments that border waterways.
1. Breaker Walls
Breaker walls or sea walls are constructed where water meets land, so that there will be a layer of protection for structures against the force of waves. Typically built of concrete or masonry, these walls also help to combat coastal erosion. Breaker walls are important to Florida marine construction because they help to ensure that property damage is kept to a minimum, especially during the unpredictable surf that accompanies coastal storms.
2. Retainer Walls
Retainer walls are used to protect land and to keep it from eroding into the water. Good retainer walls can be made of anything that is water-resistant, such as stones, concrete or even sheet metal. They can be different sizes, and besides having the particular function of keeping the soil intact, they can be decorative and aesthetically pleasing, too.
3. Docks
Docks are everywhere along coastal waterways, and there are many different kinds. Pipe docks are docks that are supported by metal frames, like aluminum. They are incredibly durable, lightweight and easy to install.
Piling docks are docks in which a platform is supported by sturdy beams that have been sunk into the seabed. Typically made of wood or concrete, these are perfect for unstable waters.
Floating docks are docks that sit atop the water and are supported by buoyant pontoons wedged into their construction. They are usually attached to land by a gangplank and can have rope lines to help for stabilization. Floating docks are ideal for calm water scenarios.
