4 min read

Navigating Coastal Construction

Written by: Barton Dexter

06.12.24

Building in coastal regions is a complex endeavor requiring meticulous planning, adherence to unique regulations, and innovative construction practices. From securing necessary permits to ensuring environmental protection, several factors need consideration to ensure project success. This blog will delve into the critical aspects of constructing in a coastal environment, focusing on project start-up, construction considerations, and materials/MEP systems.

Project Start-Up 

Permitting 

One of the initial and crucial steps in any coastal construction project is obtaining permits from the Army Corps of Engineers (ACE). The ACE review process is extensive and can be time-consuming, making it imperative to start early. The review includes but is not limited to the following:  

• Shoreline Impact: Evaluating how the project affects coastal shorelines. 

• Wetland and Habitat Impact: Assessing the potential impacts on wetlands and local habitats. 

• Shoreline Stabilization Methods: Reviewing proposed methods for stabilizing the shoreline. 

• Restoration Requirements: Determining the necessary restoration activities post-construction. 

• Watershed Runoff Management: Ensuring proper management of runoff to prevent environmental degradation. 

Engaging with the ACE and DEQ early in the project timeline helps mitigate delays, identify potential challenges, and align the project with regulatory requirements. This proactive approach facilitates a smoother approval process and ensures that environmental and community impacts are thoroughly considered and addressed. 

Environmental Protection 

Coastal projects demand rigorous sediment control measures to protect delicate marine ecosystems. Key strategies include: 

• Double Silt Fencing: Often required in coastal settings to provide an additional barrier against sediment runoff, turbidity curtains are deployed in waterways to prevent sediment from spreading.  

• Consistent Maintenance: Regular checks and maintenance of sediment controls to prevent washouts into waterways.  

• Dust Control: Implementing measures to control dust and prevent waterway contamination. 

Early stabilization of shorelines is essential to protect the project perimeter and minimize the risk of environmental impact. 

Sediment control at the Elizabeth River Project- Ryan Resilience Lab

Construction Considerations 

Foundations 

The choice of foundation is critical in coastal construction and is determined by a geotechnical report to assess soil conditions. Building in a coastal environment presents unique challenges due to the diverse and often unstable soil conditions. Coastal soils can vary significantly, including sandy soils, which are prone to shifting and erosion; silty soils, which are looser in nature leading to stability issues that may require remedial steps such as undercutting and placement of compactable fill; and clay soils, which can expand and contract with moisture changes, leading to foundation settling and cracking. Understanding and addressing these varied soil conditions are critical to determining the foundation and for the successful development of coastal infrastructure. Foundation considerations include: 

• Concrete, Wood, or Auger Cast Piles: Chosen based on soil conditions, building size, and load requirements. Auger cast piles are best suited for highly sensitive areas with soft soil conditions that require deep foundations.  

• Pile Lengths: Vary significantly (45’ to 85’ or greater) based on soil layering depth and conditions. 

Storm Protection 

Nor’easters, hurricanes, and inclement weather create significant challenges for coastal construction projects, necessitating robust storm protection measures to ensure a safe and successful project. Coastal regions must implement increased material protection, site security, and strategic planning to mitigate the impact of these severe weather events. Coastal regions necessitate robust storm protection measures such as: 

• Material Storage & Protection: 

• • Securing Loose Materials: To prevent materials from becoming hazardous during high winds, extra measures need to be put in place to secure them. Materials can be secured through bundling/tarping or the preferred method of using Conex containers for secure and weather-resistant storage.  

• • Elevating Materials: Using pallets or dunnage to keep materials off potentially flooded ground. 

• Managing Dumpsters, Toilets, & Temporary Fueling Stations: Ensuring these items are emptied and secured is imperative to maintaining a site free of contamination.  

• Temporary & Final Structure Protection: Construction fencing and any building openings such as doors and windows must be secured to prevent water and wind damage.  

Temporary fencing around the Moxy project keeps the wind speed down, therefore protecting stored materials on site.

Materials and MEP

Material Considerations 

Selecting materials for a coastal construction project is crucial due to the harsh environmental conditions of coastal areas. The corrosive salt-laden air, high humidity, and frequent exposure to strong winds and storms necessitate the use of materials that are resilient and durable. The careful selection of materials that can withstand the unique stresses of coastal environments is vital for the longevity and safety of the project. The following materials require specific consideration: 

• Façade Materials: Opting for resilient materials such as brick, cementitious siding, and Exterior Insulation and Finishing Systems (EIFS) is preferred for coastal areas.  

• Windows: When selecting windows for your project wind resistance and missile impact ratings based on locality in conjunction with local and state codes is crucial.  

Mechanical Equipment 

Mechanical equipment in coastal areas must withstand high humidity and corrosive conditions, which can significantly shorten the lifespan of standard equipment. To ensure durability and reliability, it is essential to select equipment made from corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, and specially coated metals. Protective coatings and sealants can provide an extra layer of defense against the harsh coastal environment. Additionally, regular maintenance and application of anti-corrosion treatments after project turnover are necessary to keep equipment in optimal condition. The strategic selection, protection, and maintenance of mechanical equipment are critical to ensuring its functionality and durability in the challenging conditions of coastal areas. 

Coastal construction projects present unique challenges that require detailed planning, rigorous environmental protection measures, and robust construction practices. By securing necessary permits early, implementing stringent sediment controls, and choosing suitable materials, Construction Managers can navigate these challenges effectively. Prioritizing these considerations ensures compliance with regulations and contributes to the project’s sustainability and success. 

Previous Post Next Post