CASE STUDY
Case Study: Comprehensive Seawall Rehabilitation
Surf Colony Condominiums – Vanderbilt Beach, Naples, Florida
How Seawall Savers™ Restored Structural Integrity Without Disruption or Full Replacement
Project Snapshot
Project Title: Seawall Rehabilitation – Surf Colony Condominiums
Location: Vanderbilt Beach, Naples, Florida
Client: Surf Colony Condominium Association
Service Provider: Seawall Savers™ – Coastal Infrastructure Specialists
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
Metric
Outcome
Total Seawall Length
310 linear feet
Jet Filters Installed
68+
Polyurethane Injection
64+ injection points
Cracks Repaired
90 linear feet (epoxy injection)
Project Duration
4 business days
Disruption to Residents
Minimal – no landscape replacement needed
Projected Lifespan Gain
25+ years of structural durability
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
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Polyurethane injection is a minimally invasive repair method that fills voids and stabilizes soil behind seawalls. It lifts misaligned panels, halts erosion, and strengthens foundations—all without excavation. This method extends the seawall’s life by decades.
Jet Filters regulate water discharge through weep holes, preventing the buildup of damaging hydrostatic pressure. This system improves drainage, reduces soil loss, and helps maintain seawall integrity long-term.
Our systems require minimal upkeep. We recommend periodic inspections and simple Jet Filter cleanings to ensure proper drainage and prevent future issues.
Protect Your Coastal Investment
Don’t wait until seawall failure threatens your property value or safety. Let Seawall Savers™ provide a customized, non-invasive solution tailored to your needs and budget.
Call (239) 284-6830
Visit www.seawallsavers.com to schedule your FREE site assessment
About the Author
Charlie Garcia, founder of Seawall Savers™, is a Florida-certified marine contractor with over 25 years of experience in seawall repair, erosion control, and coastal infrastructure protection.
Certifications & Licenses:
- Florida License #CBC1252534
- Florida License #CBC1263386
- Certified Helical Piling Inspector
- Certified Deep Foundation Contractor
- Certified Foam Injection Contractor
Charlie is recognized for his eco-focused, engineering-led approach to seawall rehabilitation—trusted by communities across Florida’s coasts.