{"id":3072,"date":"2017-05-31T19:22:10","date_gmt":"2017-05-31T19:22:10","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/lakehomes.com\/info\/articles\/?p=3072"},"modified":"2026-01-26T14:27:30","modified_gmt":"2026-01-26T20:27:30","slug":"building-a-stable-seawall","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lakehomes.com\/info\/lifestyles\/building-a-stable-seawall","title":{"rendered":"Building and Maintaining a Seawall on the Lake"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Seawalls protect the land from erosion by a body of water. If you have seen a seawall on the beach, just know that seawalls on the lake serve the same purpose. Just on a much, much smaller scale! A seawall is usually made of wood, stone, steel or concrete.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent years, synthetic materials have become more popular. These structures serve three distinct purposes on the lake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

First of all, they protect property from erosion, flooding or poor drainage. Secondly, a seawall helps maintain water depth. This is especially important if you enjoy boating, fishing, or other similar activities on your piece of the lake. Finally, seawalls can give your property an attractive, finished look. Especially if your property is on a slope, it can make your property much more attractive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you own a home on the waterfront, you may be responsible for a seawall. Don’t let this intimidate you! Seawalls typically require very little upkeep. Periodic visual inspection and minor repairs should make up the majority of your “chores.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You may want to build a seawall on your property. If so, check your local regulations<\/a>. Most lakes have requirements for any shore construction. For example, the Tennessee Valley Authority<\/a> requires that you submit an application for any shore stabilization project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Knowing regulations beforehand will help you avoid wasting money on a project you can’t finish. It can also give you guidelines on the most effective ways to construct your seawall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Repairs and Maintenance<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Inspect your seawall regularly in order to spot any problems before major issues arise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If your seawall is new, be vigilant and make note of any sinkholes or cracks. Other defects may occur due to age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maintenance and repair techniques will differ depending on the materials used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you don’t know the local guidelines on maintaining a seawall, ask your neighbors. Most lake communities have resources available to help homeowners maintain their piece of the shoreline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don’t hesitate to ask for help!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Seawall Materials<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Seawalls can be built from very different materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n