If you live along the Connecticut or Rhode Island shoreline, your seawall is one of the most critical structures protecting your home or commercial property from storm surges, erosion, and rising tides. Whether you see visible signs of damage or simply want to stay ahead of potential failure, understanding the seawall reconstruction process can help you make informed decisions and protect your investment.

At K.E. Braza Construction, we’ve been rebuilding and restoring coastal seawalls for over 20 years. Here’s what you need to know about seawall repair and how to get started.

Signs You May Need Seawall Repair

Not sure if your seawall is in trouble? Here are common signs of seawall deterioration:

Cracks or shifting in the wall
Soil loss behind the wall
Visible leaning or bowing
Corrosion on rebar or tiebacks
Standing water or pooling near the seawall
Erosion or sinkholes forming behind the wall

If you're noticing any of these issues, it's important to act quickly. Structural problems only get worse over time—especially with harsh coastal weather.

What Is Involved in Seawall Reconstruction?

Seawall reconstruction involves replacing all or part of the existing structure with new materials and reinforced designs. This typically includes:

Demolition and removal of damaged wall sections
Excavation to assess below-ground conditions
Installation of new footings or piles for structural support
Reinforcement with rebar, geogrid, or helical piles
New wall construction using concrete, vinyl, steel, or stone
Backfilling and drainage installation to prevent future erosion

Each seawall is different, and the reconstruction approach depends on factors like soil conditions, exposure to wave action, and whether your wall is a gravity wall, cantilevered wall, or anchored system.

If you’re unsure what type of wall you have, our team can assess it and walk you through the options.

How Long Does Seawall Repair Take?

Most seawall repairs and reconstructions take 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the length of the wall, weather conditions, permit requirements, and site accessibility. At K.E. Braza, we manage the project from start to finish—including all permitting and engineering coordination—to ensure a smooth process.

For a breakdown of our full project management approach, visit our Seawall Repair & Construction page.

Is a Permit Required for Seawall Reconstruction?

Yes—especially along the Connecticut and Rhode Island coastline. Depending on your location, you may need:

DEEP (Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection) permitting
Coastal or flood zone compliance
Local town or zoning approvals

K.E. Braza is experienced in handling all coastal permitting requirements. We ensure your project is fully compliant from the start, minimizing delays and ensuring long-term protection.

What’s the Best Time of Year to Rebuild a Seawall?

Spring through early fall offers the most favorable weather and tidal conditions for seawall construction. However, emergencies can arise year-round. If your wall is at risk of collapse, don’t wait—we offer year-round services when necessary.

What Does Seawall Repair Cost?

Seawall repair and reconstruction costs vary significantly based on:

Wall length and height
Site accessibility
Type of materials used
Whether excavation or pile work is needed

A typical repair or replacement can range from $500 to $1,200+ per linear foot. For an accurate estimate, we offer free consultations and site evaluations.

Shoreline Restoration and Erosion Control

In many cases, seawall reconstruction includes shoreline restoration services such as:

Regrading eroded land
Installing drainage solutions
Restoring natural vegetation or installing riprap

These steps help preserve your view, property value, and compliance with local regulations.

Why Choose K.E. Braza for Seawall Work?

We are a family-owned construction company with deep roots along the Connecticut and Rhode Island shoreline. Our seawall services are trusted by homeowners, municipalities, and commercial property owners alike. When you work with us, you get:

20+ years of shoreline construction experience
End-to-end project management
DEEP compliance expertise
Marine-grade materials and engineering
A team that handles everything from demolition to completion

Explore our marine and dock construction services or view additional offerings like foundation installation and house lifting to protect your entire property.

Related Resources:

Ready to Rebuild or Repair Your Seawall?

Don’t wait until the damage gets worse. Contact K.E. Braza Construction today for a consultation and site assessment. We’ll help you create a safe, compliant, and long-lasting shoreline solution.

Seawall Repair & Reconstruction: What Waterfront Property Owners Need to Know