CASE STUDY
Pelican Isle Yacht Club – Naples, FL
Seawall Savers™ | Comprehensive Marina Seawall Repair Using Polyurethane Grouting
Protecting Waterfront Infrastructure with Precision
At Pelican Isle Yacht Club in Naples, Florida, visible erosion behind the seawall was threatening waterfront access and property safety. The marina’s stone access walkway had begun shifting underfoot, posing a hazard to guests, and the structural soil beneath was failing. To address this danger, Seawall Savers™ employed an advanced, non-invasive polyurethane grouting technique instead of opting for costly and disruptive seawall replacement.
This case study highlights how our precise solution stabilized this premier marina infrastructure quickly, safely, and cost-effectively—underscoring why our methods are preferred in coastal Florida.
The Problem: Erosion, Voids & Structural Instability
The marina’s seawall exhibited several critical issues:
- Sinkholes forming behind wall panels created unstable ground sections
- Four large 24-inch stormwater outfall pipes were leaking, resulting in severe soil erosion and water infiltration
- Settling access pavers became uneven and hazardous
Contributing factors included:
- Saltwater corrosion gradually weakening concrete integrity
- Ongoing tidal shifts and wave action displacing underlying soil
- The infrastructure—likely 35–50 years old—lacked modern drainage and erosion protection systems
- No proactive maintenance or drainage measures had been implemented
Together, these risks demanded a durable solution that preserved marina aesthetics and prevented a full-scale replacement.
What We Found During Inspection
A detailed site assessment revealed:
- Void zones behind panel joints threatening structural stability
- Significant soil loss around pipe outflows, increasing sinkhole risk
- Separated panel joints, compromising the seawall’s ability to support loads safely and retain soil effectively
Our Repair Process
Seawall Savers™ carefully designed and executed a four-step, minimally disruptive solution:
- Site Preparation
Removed pavers and worked closely with marine engineers to identify safe injection zones.
- Polyurethane Grouting
Delivered approximately 750 gallons of SWRP1 hydrophobic polyurethane resin, which expands upon injection to form a watertight, rigid foam barrier.
- Permeation Grouting
Conducted 65 deep injections up to 8 feet beneath the seawall joints. This stabilized the soil mass behind the wall without the need for digging or heavy mechanical disturbance.
- Floating Containment Barriers
Utilized floating curtains to contain grout near boats and sensitive docking areas—ensuring a clean and protected operation.
Project Results:
- Structural Stability Restored: Voids eliminated and soil movement halted
- Zero Heavy Equipment Required: Non-invasive delivery preserved marina operations and surroundings
- Cost Savings: We avoided an estimated $100,000+ seawall replacement scenario
- Improved Safety: Re-leveled access pavers eliminated slip and trip hazards
- Rapid Completion: The marina was operational within days instead of weeks or months
Why Polyurethane Grouting is a Smart Solution for Waterfront Properties
Florida’s coastal homes and marinas face unique threats—from aging seawalls to increased storm activity. Proactive, modern techniques like those used at Pelican Isle Yacht Club offer significant advantages:
- Avoid full seawall replacement and its cost (often 50–70% savings)
- Prevent trip hazards or liability incidents caused by shifting surfaces
- Maintain property value and seamless aesthetics during repairs
- Fortify seawalls against king tides, hurricanes, and rising water levels
Maintenance Tips for Marina & Coastal Property Owners
- Schedule annual inspections—especially before and after storm season
- Monitor for visible cracks, panel movement, or seepage
- Ensure outfall pipes and drainage systems remain clear
- Address small erosion signs early to prevent large-scale failure
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The resin expands to fill cracks and cavities underground, creating a strong, watertight foam barrier that supports soil and stabilizes panels.
Yes. We use floating containment and controlled injection to prevent overspray and ensure marina safety.
With routine maintenance, polyurethane-injected seawalls can remain stable and effective for many decades.
Absolutely. This method is trenchless and non-invasive—ideal for properties with limited access or sensitive landscaping.
Look for sinking walkways, visible cracks, soil loss, and standing water behind the wall after storms.
Ready to Secure Your Shoreline?
If your seawall or marina shows signs of distress, don’t delay. Contact Seawall Savers™ for a free consultation.
Call us today: (239) 9849899
Visit: www.seawallsavers.com
Proudly serving Naples, Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and all Southwest Florida.
About the Author
Charlie Garcia
FloridaCertified Building Contractor & Marine Construction Specialist, Seawall Savers™
With over 25 years of experience, Charlie Garcia is a trusted expert in seawall repair, erosion control, marine foundations, and structural stabilization across Florida’s coastline. He holds dual contractor licenses (#CBC1252534, #CBC1263386) and certifications including:
- Certified Helical Piling Inspector
- Certified Deep Foundation Contractor
- Certified Foam Injection Contractor
Charlie combines technical innovation with environmental stewardship, ensuring durable and clean solutions for waterfront properties.