Estimating the Cost of a Seawall

When considering the cost of building a new seawall, there’s a good chance that your first step was to go online and type in some version of the question: what does a seawall cost? As the creators of innovative TRULINE® vinyl sheet piling, we can help layout in general terms the items that go into determining the cost of a seawall.

Contact a local civil engineer or marine contractor

Homeowners can start their seawall project with either a local civil engineer or marine contractor. Generally, most homeowners contact a marine contractor first if their project seems “ordinary” for the area. However, sometimes a project site can be a little unique in terms of soil conditions or other differences and it may be best to contact a civil engineer first. A civil engineer can design your wall and provide a stamped drawing for you to give to a contractor. When determining which contractor, sometimes specifically a “marine” contractor, to call for a quote, the best first step may be to ask friends, family or neighbors for any recommendations. Be sure to find a reputable and properly licensed and insured contractor. Most contractors will provide a free estimate.

Looking for a Marine Contractor in Florida or Other Areas of the Country?

In Florida, for example, visit the Florida Marine Contractors Association to discover licensed & insured contractors in your area. If you live in the Florida Keys, visit the Florida Keys Contractors Association. For other areas of the country, check for similar organizations. The contractor will come to your property and review the following factors in order to provide an estimate for the seawall:

• Length and height of the wall needed (heights are usually determined by local laws)
• Soil conditions
• Current seawall material and condition
• Accessibility of the site for equipment and materials

What is involved in the cost of a seawall?

There are many variables that go into estimating the cost for a seawall. If you’re not ready to contact a contractor for a quote yet, but would like to obtain a ballpark figure, please feel free to contact TRULINE sales at (239) 591-6234 for assistance or fill out the contact form.

Below you will find a list of the primary items considered when determining the price of a seawall.

Drawing  

Every project will need a stamped drawing by an engineer.

Permits

Payment of any permits required. This can vary based on location, and may require more than one permit. Examples of permits you may need include: DEP, USACE, as well as local and county permits.

Seawall materials

This includes the materials used in the building of your seawall (vinyl sheet piling, concrete, steel, etc.) as well as the materials required in the preparation, installation, and transportation of your seawall product. The geographical location of the project can also be a factor in material costs and vary greatly around the country. Some factors that go into material selection include:

• site location
• space to access the site
• depth/embedment needed
• budget
• appearance desired
• type of wall designed by the engineer, as best suited for the property

Seawall construction equipment

Includes the cost of transporting to the site barges, trucks, track hoe, as well the cost of running the equipment, and possibly renting equipment.

Labor

Costs including wages, insurance, workers’ compensation, USL&H, and more.

Site clean-up costs

Once your seawall has been installed, your property will need to be restored or finished.

As you can see, there are many items to be considered that go into the cost of a seawall. In addition, depending on your location, obtaining the necessary seawall permits can take 1 week to 2 years or more. Wherever you are in the process of building a new seawall, be sure to ask about TRULINE – The Ultimate Seawall. It is not only providing homeowners with a strong concrete wall with flat, vinyl protection, it is beneficial for contractors as well. Contractors have installation flexibility with TRULINE when soil conditions change so your project continues smoothly and properly. In addition, there is less yard tear-up with the TRULINE system while still achieving the strength of steel-reinforced concrete. Visit TRULINE for more information.