Hurricane Helene recently slammed into Florida’s Gulf coast, causing deadly flooding throughout Georgia and the Carolinas, impacting other states as well. Here in Mississippi, we just saw a few rainy days, but it does bring to light the importance of being prepared for such weather. Mississippi is no stranger to hurricanes. We’re ranked 8th in the country, accounting for 6.4% of all U.S hurricanes.
While there are many proactive steps you can take to protect yourself and your property, some things should be done afterward. For instance, scheduling a seawall inspection with a member of the Seawall Repair Network is an important step in ensuring your seawall is structurally sound. After all, you rely on this structure to prevent erosion, flooding, and storm surges.
Let’s learn more about the importance of scheduling a seawall inspection after a hurricane.
Assess Hidden Damage
Hurricanes bring intense wind, rain, and waves that can cause both hidden and visible damage to seawalls. While the structure may look fine on the outside, the powerful forces of the storm can create cracks, erode soil behind the wall, or weaken its foundation. These issues might not be immediately visible, but they can compromise the seawall’s ability to protect your property during the next storm. A professional inspection can detect hidden issues before they become larger problems.
Prevent Future Failure
A seawall that’s been weakened by a hurricane is more vulnerable to failure. If the wall has sustained any level of damage, it may not be able to withstand powerful storms or high tides in the future. The last thing you want is for your seawall to collapse when you need it the most. Regular inspections, especially after a major storm, can identify weak spots and provide you with the opportunity to address them.
Protect Property from Erosion
The primary function of a seawall is to protect your property from erosion caused by waves and tides. However, hurricane-induced storm surges can wash away large amounts of soil and weaken the structure’s stability to hold back water. If this happens, your seawall and the land behind it can be compromised, putting your property at risk. A post-hurricane inspection can assess the extent of erosion and recommend solutions to prevent further damage.
Identify Drainage Issues
Seawalls are equipped with drainage systems to release the pressure of water behind the wall. Hurricanes bring excessive rainfall, which can overwhelm these systems. Blocked or damaged drains can’t do their job, allowing water to pool up and increase pressure on the seawall, eventually leading to cracks and failure. A thorough inspection ensures that your drainage system is working properly and that there are no blockages.
Mitigate Costs with Early Detection
Repairing a damaged seawall can be costly, especially if the damage is severe. Catching issues early allows you to avoid more costly and intensive repairs down the line. By addressing minor cracks, erosion, or drainage problems, you can prevent larger and more expensive structural failures that could require a full seawall replacement. Trust us when we say that early detection saves money - and headache!
Don’t Wait - Schedule an Inspection Today! We are a proud Member of the Seawall Repair Network
Hurricanes like Helene are a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of protecting coastal properties. A seawall is a critical line of defense, and ensuring its integrity is vital. Don’t wait to schedule an inspection. If you wait until you see signs of damage, it could be too late. To schedule a thorough inspection of your seawall, contact Foremost Foundations and Construction today.
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