Outcropping Services for West Michigan

Outcropping can be used in a variety of fashions.  It is a series of large stones that are used to make up walkways, inland retaining walls, around ponds for waterfall features, or simply make a patio.  Many people love the look of outcropping but really don’t know what it is called.  It is very natural since it is made of large stones.  By choosing a different stone, you can have a completed different outcropping look.

Before you can have a successful outcropping experience you may need to have a little excavation done.  This isn’t a problem as we offer excavation services along with our outcropping services. We work with homeowners as well as local landscaping companies to bring in these large stones and assemble them as they have been drawn up. Should you need a little help with your vision, give us a call and we are happy to assist.

Damaged seawalls are useless, which is why Viking Marine Construction LLC is here to help with our outcropping services along with offering other seawall options such as Rip Rap Seawalls, and Steel Seawalls , and More. 

Outcropping offers a beautiful natural look when completed and demands attention.  The eye is drawn to the large stones and it really has a beautiful outcome.

Outcropping is another form of a seawall as well when used in the marine construction world.  Similar to steel seawalls and rip rap seawalls are built to protect your property from erosion issues as well as flooding without the use of harmful chemicals.  This offers a very natural look as opposed to that of steel walls as well.  Which makes it a pretty popular option. Many of these seawalls are put into place with the help of our crane services.

Sometimes outcropping can form naturally, however, many times we have to form it on our own.  The various seawall options all have a different look.  The purpose of a seawall is the same, but it is it what type of look you would like to see.

What is the process of outcropping?

Outcropping is not something that a homeowner or business owner can do on their own.  The rocks are huge and will need to be moved with heavy equipment.  They will need to be placed strategically so that the wall will stand up against the waves as well.  Let’s take a look at the actual process.

The first step will be ground preparations.  You will need to have the ground super flat before the Outcropping should begin.  This can be done with our excavation services.  Be sure there isn’t any surface water.  Surface water can seep up into the rocks and weaken them.

The bottom will have a filter fabric.  This filter fabric will allow the water to escape when it rains.  The water will need a place to drain.

Choosing your stones or rocks for outcropping

While there are some rocks that we can recommend.  The final look will be determined by what type of rock you choose.  This is an important step as you want your outcropping to complement your home.  There are some types of rocks that work better than others. We are happy to discuss the different options with you.

Once you have the rocks picked out and the ground is prepared, you are ready to have your outcropping wall started.

The rocks are completely natural, so they will go together like a puzzle.  The idea is to get them as close together as possible.  You don’t want huge gaping holes in your wall, steps, or seawall.

Outcropping and flood control

While you don’t want surface water under your rocks. There is another type of water called groundwater that can become very saturated, especially at the shoreline during certain times.  This means that you run the risk of flooding your lawn and your home.  However, outcropping prevents this from happening as it

Erosion Control

The main reason that someone is looking at getting a seawall is to prevent erosion from happening. This is where the water will start to claim the land around it.  Erosion happens in the Great Lakes such as Lake Michigan but it also happens in channels and inland lakes.  Erosion can happen even more quickly if you live in an area that has many wakes from boats and other water toys.  To prevent erosion you will need proper protection with a seawall.

Maintenance

The maintenance of your outcropping wall, sea wall, or steps is quite simple. While there is certainly is some maintenance it really isn’t that complex.

Avoid Excessive and abrasive cleaning

While your outcropping seawall is made of rock, it still can be affected by cleaning, especially certain rocks.  You should ask during installation what you can use on that particular stone to keep it clean.  If it is in the water, you will not want to use chemicals that will harm the water.  Usually, a simple hose and brush will do.  Or, sometimes, you could use a pressure washer should it get a build-up of vegetation or something that you want to remove.  Again, before you do anything, be sure that you know what you are doing or hire a professional so that you don’t ruin your outcropping seawall.

Cost?

The cost will be determined by a few factors such as how long is the seawall and the height.  Also what types of materials are being used as well as what type of outcropping is needed.  Each project is quoted to ensure that you are getting the outcropping that you want and need.

While it is an investment, it is also saving your shoreline or adding beauty to your yard.  Many times it is used to control flooding.  Most insurances do not cover flood damage due to natural occurrences.  This could add up to be very expensive.

While we typically are working with outcropping seawalls, they can be used for a variety of things such as retaining walls, waterfalls, or ponds.  It is really beautiful when done properly and will last a lifetime.  Call today and let’s get started on your customized free quote.  616-294-3597