GEO Target: Bokeelia, Florida
When Hurricane Ian swept through Southwest Florida in 2022, many waterfront homes in Bokeelia suffered severe foundation damage and seawall deterioration. Coastal Foundation Solutions was honored to assist one local homeowner facing these exact challenges, restoring their home’s structural integrity with expert underpinning and seawall repair.
Understanding the Challenge: Foundation Sliding and Seawall Failure
Bokeelia is a scenic coastal community known for its beautiful waterfront properties. However, these homes are vulnerable to extreme weather events, particularly hurricanes that bring storm surge, flooding, and soil erosion. For this homeowner, Hurricane Ian caused significant foundation sliding and a failing seawall—both critical threats to the safety and stability of the property.
Our team collaborated with the client’s engineering firm to perform thorough soil analysis and site assessments. The goal was clear: stop the foundation’s movement and reinforce the seawall to prevent further erosion and structural damage. Given the sensitive coastal ecosystem, environmental responsibility was also a top priority throughout the project.
The Solution: Precision Underpinning and Innovative Marine Erosion Control
To stabilize the foundation, Coastal Foundation Solutions installed four galvanized underpinning piles fitted with seven additional extensions. Using advanced torque monitoring technology, our crew drove each pile to the necessary depth and load capacity. This ensured the foundation was firmly supported without disrupting neighboring properties or the fragile shoreline.
Next came the seawall repair. We applied a marine erosion guard system specially designed for Florida’s coastal conditions. This system involves durable one-foot-wide vinyl sheets attached over the joints between seawall panels. The sheets extend from 12 inches below the mudline to one foot beneath the seawall cap, preventing soil washout through panel seams and reducing the risk of sinkhole formation.
To further strengthen the seawall, we installed five seawall filters that allow trapped water and hydrostatic pressure to escape. Relieving this pressure reduces stress on the seawall and prevents soil erosion behind the structure.
Throughout the work, our team prioritized environmental safeguards to minimize impact on local marine life and preserve Bokeelia’s beautiful coastal ecosystem.
Project Results: Durable Stability and Peace of Mind
The underpinning piles halted the foundation’s dangerous sliding, restoring the homeowner’s confidence in their property’s safety. Meanwhile, the marine erosion guard system and seawall filters protected against future soil loss and structural wear.
Our client praised the professionalism, efficiency, and minimal disruption of the project. By choosing galvanized steel components and eco-conscious materials, we provided a long-lasting solution built to withstand Bokeelia’s harsh coastal environment.
This project demonstrates how combining modern foundation underpinning techniques with marine structural repair can protect waterfront homes from storm damage while honoring the natural environment.
Products Used
- RS2875.217 10” x 12” 84″ L Galvanized Round Shaft Lead Section
- RS2875.217 84” L Galvanized Round Shaft Extensions
- Galvanized Underpinning Bracket
- Marine Vinyl Seawall Erosion Guard Sheets
- Seawall Hydrostatic Pressure Relief Filters
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is underpinning necessary for homes affected by foundation sliding in coastal areas like Bokeelia?
Underpinning strengthens existing foundations that have shifted due to erosion, storm surge, or unstable soils. Coastal areas experience accelerated foundation movement due to water intrusion and soil shifts, making underpinning critical for restoring structural safety.
How does the marine erosion guard system protect seawalls from future damage?
This system seals joints between seawall panels with vinyl sheets, preventing soil washout and sinkholes beneath the seawall. It reduces erosion behind the wall and helps maintain long-term structural integrity.
What benefits do seawall filters provide in seawall repair projects?
Seawall filters allow trapped water and hydrostatic pressure to escape, reducing stress on the seawall, minimizing soil loss, and extending the wall’s lifespan.
About the Author
Charlie Garcia is a Florida-certified building contractor and a seasoned marine construction expert with over 25 years of experience serving coastal communities throughout the state. Based in Cape Coral, he holds multiple licenses including Florida License #CBC1252534 and #CBC1263386, and specialized certifications such as Certified Helical Piling Inspector, Certified Deep Foundation Contractor, and Certified Foam Injection Contractor. Charlie is widely respected for his expertise in seawall repair, erosion control, foundation stabilization, and marine structural restoration. His approach blends technical precision, long-term durability, and a strong commitment to environmental responsibility.
If your waterfront property in Bokeelia or nearby areas requires expert foundation stabilization or seawall repair after storm damage, don’t wait to protect your home and investment. Contact Coastal Foundation Solutions today for a free consultation and personalized solution tailored to your property’s needs.
Call (239) 555-1234 or visit www.coastalfoundationsolutions.com/contact now to schedule your assessment.