If you own waterfront property, one of your concerns might be the problem of erosion. If your home does not already have a retaining seawall, you will need to have one constructed. There are several materials that a seawall can be made out of.

1. Wood

One of the oldest types of materials to make a retaining seawall out of is wood. The wooden boards can rot over time and might need to be replaced with new planks of wood. Fortunately, this is easy to do. However, wooden seawalls will often not last as long as structures made out of other materials. 

2. Concrete

Concrete is a material commonly used in construction in general. It is a material that can last for many years. However, the concrete must be designed specifically to be able to resist the environment that it is under. Fortunately, when it wears down, you will be able to remove the sections that have cracked or become damaged in some other way. The concrete can also be constructed at an angle so that waves cause less damage.

3. Masonry

Similar to concrete is masonry. This is a material made out of boulders and rocks. It is very effective at preventing soil erosion. Masonry is also a great option if you are looking for a more aesthetic alternative to other seawall construction options. 

4. Steel

Aluminum is sometimes used for seawall construction, but it is not always the best option because it is not as durable. Steel is a better metal to use and can be coated to protect it from exposure to moisture. However, the protective coating needs to be applied every couple of years. Also, this type of seawall is expensive to install.

5. Vinyl

Vinyl is one of the longest-lasting materials and can be very durable when exposed to seawater. However, it is best used to repair existing seawalls. When you try to use vinyl by itself, or if the surface of the existing seawall is too rough, you might need to use a different type of material. 

If you are not sure about which type of material your retaining seawall should be made out of, it's a good idea to contact construction contractors who have experience with retaining seawalls. While seawalls are essential when defending against erosion, they will wear out eventually and it's important to consult with a professional on how to protect your property.

A construction company can offer more information about seawall construction.