Bulkhead replacement and repair

Your bulkhead holds your yard in place. When it starts to go, the river slowly takes the soil behind it, and a small problem can turn into a big one after a few storms. If you're in Red Bank, Fair Haven, Rumson, Middletown or Highlands, call and we'll connect you with a local marine contractor who can tell you whether it needs a repair or a new wall.

Seeing a sinkhole behind the wall? Say so when you call.

Call (732) 399-3747

Signs a bulkhead is failing

The wall is leaning out toward the water, or bowing in the middle
Sinkholes, soft spots or washouts in the lawn just behind the wall
Rotted, split or cracked sheathing boards
Gaps between boards where soil is leaking through at low tide
Tie-backs or anchors that are rusted, loose or broken
Caps and walers that are cracked or pulling away

Vinyl, timber or steel

Most bulkheads around here are built from one of three materials. Vinyl sheeting doesn't rot and is common on residential jobs. Treated timber is the traditional choice and is still widely used. Steel is strong and is more often used where the wall takes a lot of force. Each has trade-offs in cost, looks and how long it lasts in salt water, and the right one depends on your site. Ask your contractor why they recommend what they do.

Repair or replace

Sometimes a few new boards, a new cap or new tie-backs will buy years. Sometimes the whole wall needs to come out, or a new wall goes in just in front of the old one. A good contractor will look at the whole length, check behind it, and explain your options. Replacing an existing, legal bulkhead at the same size may be simpler to permit than building something new, and your contractor and their engineer will sort out what's needed.

Other waterfront help

Send a quick note

Not a good time to talk? Leave your number and a few words about your bulkhead, dock or lift, and a local marine contractor will call you back.