Erosion is the gradual wearing a way of land due to natural forces like wind, water, and ice. For waterfront property owners, erosion can lead to a loss of land, decreased property value, and potential damage to structures.
Prepping your home for unpredictable weather is vital, especially when living near water. Homeowners can experience hurricanes, tropical storms, winter storms, and strong winds. All of which can cause erosion. Here’s how to protect your waterfront property against erosion.
Table of Contents
- Look for Signs of Erosion
- Understand the Causes of Erosion
- Best Practices for Erosion Control
- DIY Erosion Control
- When to Seek Professional Help
- Erosion Control Maintenance Tips
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Look for Signs of Erosion
Understanding the signs of erosion can help you take early action. Look for changes in the shoreline, exposed roots, or soil that seems to be disappearing.
You might also notice muddy water after a rainstorm or cracks in the ground near the water’s edge.
Understand the Causes of Erosion
Several factors contribute to erosion.
Waterfront grass with soil erosion
Natural elements like waves, currents, and tides play a significant role. Human activities such as construction, landscaping, and even foot traffic can accelerate the process. Vegetation loss and poor drainage systems can also worsen erosion.
Soil erosion along river bank
Best Practices for Erosion Control
Protecting your waterfront property from erosion involves a combination of methods.
Little Bluestem grass thriving near a waterfront
Planting native vegetation can help hold the soil together.
Native plants on waterfront hill
Grasses are the most effective type of plant to curb lakefront soil erosion. Their fibrous root systems are well adept at holding the soil in place. Buffalograss, Bushy Bluestem and Little Bluestem are three popular choices, but there are many types of grass that work well for stopping soil erosion.
Bushy Bluestem grasses in marshland at sunset
Installing a bulkhead on your waterfront property can act as a barrier against the force of waves.
Waterfront home with bulkhead
Waterfront home with stone bulkhead
Consider adding riprap, which is a layer of large stones placed along the shoreline to absorb and deflect wave energy.
Lakefront home with riprap protective stone barrier
DIY Erosion Control
For those who prefer a hands-on approach, there are several DIY erosion control methods you can try.
Erosion control around pond with hay to help seeds take root
Start by planting deep-rooted plants along the shoreline. These plants will help anchor the soil. Next, create a natural buffer zone by allowing grass and shrubs to grow longer near the water. This buffer can reduce the speed of runoff and capture sediment.
Waterfront erosion control with trall natural grass
Consider using biodegradable erosion control mats to provide immediate stabilization while waiting for plants to establish themselves.
Waterfront erosion control with natural jute netting to aid plant growth
When to Seek Professional Help
Sometimes, erosion can be too severe for DIY measures. If you notice significant land loss or structural damage, it’s time to call in the professionals.
They can assess the situation and recommend solutions like retaining walls, terracing, or advanced drainage systems.
Oceanfront erosion control retaining wall
Professional intervention may seem costly, but it’s a worthy investment to protect your property.
Beachfront retaining wall and stairs
Erosion Control Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance is key once you’ve set up your erosion control measures. Check your shoreline after storms to ensure your barriers are intact. Keep an eye on plant growth and replace any dead or dying plants promptly. Regularly inspect and clean drainage systems to prevent blockages.
Protecting your waterfront property from erosion is essential for preserving its value and ensuring its safety. According to the U.S. Climate Resilience Toolkit, coastal erosion is responsible for approximately $500 million worth of property damage and loss every year. Plus, that number continues to grow. And not every insurance company will cover the damage. Make sure you check your insurance policy and talk with your insurance provider.
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