What are the Pros and Cons of a Rip Rap Sea Wall

While living on a body of water is a dream for many people, there are some unique issues with it.  You will be more susceptible to flooding, different pests, and erosion of your property.  If you don’t protect your land with proper seawalls.  Let’s take a look at what a rip rap seawall will have on your property.

A rip rap seawall, like any seawall, is installed to ensure that your land is protected from going into the water.  As the waves crash into the shoreline it is taking a bit of the shore with it.  This erosion can be prevented.

A rip rap seawall is a seawall made from large rocks.  These rocks are put together similar to a puzzle.  You have probably seen this style of seawall and simply didn’t know what it was called.  Rip Rap can be found in many of the Lake Michigan beach towns such as Grand Haven, South Haven, Muskegon, and more.  There you will find large white rocks that are used to protect various areas.  They are also used to protect bridges, piers, and other structures that are anchored in the water.  You will also see steel seawalls in these beach towns as well.  

Pros of Rip Rap Seawall

Erosion

Erosion protection would be the number one reason people look at getting retaining walls.  Erosion is very common on the shoreline and can be worse if there is boating nearby.  Rivers and channels also have a flow that will erode away at their edges slowly.  However, if you the proper seawall installed you should have to worry about it.  Read More.

Maintenance

The maintenance of this type of seawall is pretty easy.  You simply need to inspect it from time to time to ensure no rocks are broken.  This type of seawall is very strong and made with large rocks that simply cannot be moved by animals.

Eco Friendly

It is very eco-friendly.  It is made from natural stones, so there aren’t any chemicals used to even make the materials.  It also keeps pests such as muskrats at bay in a friendly fashion without having to trap them or harm them in some way.

Longevity

This sort of seawall will last a really long time. With proper maintenance, it can last for decades and could be the last sea wall you ever have to put it.

Improves property value

Because it is so durable and doesn’t take a lot of maintenance, typically you set it and forget it. You won’t have to worry about doing it again.  However, it also adds a lot of beauty to the shoreline.  The natural stones look amazing and many people like this look which means that it will improve the look of your home.  Better curb appeal means an increase in property value.

Some Cons of having a Rip Rap seawall

Location

This style of seawall is best for moving waters.  However, if you live in an area that has calmer waters, you might want to consider different types of seawalls.  While we love the look of Rip Rap there are other options such as steel, plastic, wood, and more.  We will happy to assist you in finding the right seawall for your location.

Won’t protect from flooding on adjacent properties

You might be a responsible homeowner and have your rip rap seawall in.  But, if your next-door neighbor doesn’t have the same protection the water can come in from the sides.  There is no way of stopping this.

While the look and the maintenance of this type of seawall are impressive.  We also offer other types of seawalls such as outcropping, steel walls, and more.  Give us a call and let’s take a look at your unique needs. We can go over some options and offer some suggestions that should work well for your project.