This Lake Templene waterfront project involved the construction of a reinforced concrete seawall designed to protect the shoreline while enhancing the appearance and functionality of the lakefront property.
The seawall follows the natural contour of the shoreline and creates a permanent separation between the landscaped property and the water. Its curved layout allows the wall to work with the shape of the lakefront rather than forcing the property into a straight, unnatural line.
A strong concrete seawall begins below the visible wall. This project was constructed on a reinforced concrete footing that provides a stable foundation for the wall and helps distribute the forces placed against it.
Steel reinforcement was incorporated throughout the footing and seawall to provide additional structural strength. The footing, reinforcement and concrete wall work together as one system rather than relying only on the visible portion above the shoreline.
A properly constructed concrete seawall helps reduce shoreline erosion caused by waves, changing water levels and continual movement along the lakefront. It also helps retain the soil behind the wall and protect the surrounding landscape.
Waterfront properties experience conditions that ordinary concrete flatwork does not. Wave action, saturated soil, seasonal water fluctuations and erosion can place continual pressure on a shoreline structure.
Michigan lakefront structures must also withstand seasonal freezing and moving ice. As lake ice expands, contracts and shifts, it can place considerable pressure against the shoreline and seawall.
Reinforced concrete construction provides the strength and mass needed for these demanding conditions. Proper footing construction, steel reinforcement and quality concrete are important parts of building a seawall intended for long-term shoreline protection.
Marc Todd Concrete provides specialty concrete seawall construction for waterfront properties throughout Southwest Michigan.
For additional projects and concrete services in the area, visit our Sturgis, Michigan concrete contractor page .