Having seawalls on your waterfront property is a necessity for many owners, and there are several options when it comes to the type of seawall you need. While concrete still sets the standard as the best seawall for most waterfront conditions, a vinyl seawall is an alternative that can be very effective in some cases. It is important to talk with a marine contractor who has practical experience installing all seawall material types when meeting your seawall needs.

The main advantage of vinyl over other seawall materials is that it will not deteriorate due to saltwater exposure. It is also resistant to rot and will not suffer from damage caused by marine borers, which tend to latch on and drill into other seawall materials such as wood or steel. Additionally, vinyl is not affected by the harmful ultraviolet rays that can fade and weaken concrete seawalls over time.

In addition to its durability and longevity, vinyl is relatively inexpensive compared to concrete or steel seawalls. It can be installed a lot faster and with less labor than concrete or steel, which makes it more affordable for many homeowners. It is also more environmentally friendly, as it does not contain any cement and instead uses PVC, which is recycled and is safe for the environment.

It is also easier to install than concrete or steel, as the vinyl is not confined by formwork and can be installed quickly and efficiently with minimal equipment. It is also much lighter than concrete, which reduces installation costs. The individual pieces of vinyl seawalls are manufactured under maximum supervision and precise standards, which results in an extremely uniform product that is easy to install.

A seawall repair using vinyl is a great option for existing concrete seawalls that are beginning to lean or have suffered from significant damage due to wave action or other natural factors.

While not recommended for new construction, vinyl seawalls can be used to upgrade a treated lumber seawall, or in place of concrete in some situations. It is important to keep in mind that they cannot be built very high, as the height limitations are set by state codes and local ordinances.