CASE STUDYCase Study: Comprehensive Seawall Rehabilitation

The Challenge: Aging Seawall Jeopardizing Waterfront Stability

Surf Colony is a luxury condominium community overlooking the bayfront of Vanderbilt Beach in Naples, FL. Decades of exposure to tropical storms, tidal changes, and rainwater runoff had caused significant structural distress to over 300 feet of its seawall.

Key Issues Identified:

• Voids and sinkholes forming behind the wall, compromising ground stability
• Soil displacement and hydrostatic pressure stressing seawall panels
• Cracking along both surface and structural components
• Safety concerns for residents due to unstable walkways and shoreline erosion

A complete seawall replacement was too invasive and costly, making a non-disruptive rehabilitation approach essential.

Site Assessment & Diagnosis

The Seawall Savers™ team, led by Kit Garcia, conducted an in-depth structural and geotechnical evaluation to determine the best course of action.

Evaluation Techniques Included:

• Crack Mapping & Analysis
  Documented and categorized 310 linear feet of cracking to distinguish superficial vs. structural damage.
• Subsurface Investigation
  Probing and visual inspection uncovered extensive void formation and water infiltration.
• Tidal Pressure Monitoring
  Assessed how daily tidal activity contributed to soil erosion behind the wall.
• Corrosion Assessment
  Identified rusted rebar and degraded tiebacks, indicating internal structural weakening.

Engineered, Non-Invasive Rehabilitation Strategy

Seawall Savers™ developed and executed a multi-pronged repair plan designed to stabilize, realign, and preserve the seawall—without demolition or excavation.

🔹 1. Jet Filter™ Drainage System Installation

• Installed 68+ maintainable Jet Filters into seawall weep holes
• Reduced hydrostatic pressure buildup behind the wall
• Prevented future soil migration and water-induced stress

“Jet Filters” are a low-maintenance, eco-conscious solution for extending seawall performance.

🔹 2. Polyurethane Foam Injection for Structural Stabilization

• Performed 64+ targeted foam injections behind the seawall
• Filled voids, lifted displaced panels, and re-compacted soil
• Foam used was marine-grade, inert, and waterproof, ensuring long-term durability and minimal disruption

This process stabilized the foundation without excavation and extended the wall’s life by 25+ years.

🔹 3. Epoxy Injection for Crack Repair

• Injected marine-grade epoxy grout into 90 linear feet of structural cracks
• Restored tensile strength and sealed off pathways for water intrusion
• Prevented further crack propagation and concrete deterioration

🔹 4. Soil Compaction & Void Fill

• Added compacted clean fill beneath sidewalks and hardscape areas
• Eliminated sinkholes and improved pedestrian safety
• Strengthened the ground base, preventing future settlement and erosion

Results Overview

Client Testimonial

“Thanks to Seawall Savers™, we avoided a costly seawall rebuild and restored safety and beauty to our shoreline. The team was professional, efficient, and minimized disruption for residents.”
— Jerry H. Surf Colony HOA Board Member

Why Seawall Savers™?

• ✔️ No excavation or full replacement needed – Save time, cost, and disruption
• ✔️ Eco-conscious technology – Preserves the surrounding ecosystem
• ✔️ Proven success – Trusted by Florida’s top coastal communities for over 25 years
• ✔️ Advanced diagnostics + repair – Including predictive maintenance tools and proprietary foam systems