Coastal Erosion Control: Best Practices for Shoreline Stabilization and Protection

Coastal erosion continues to pose serious challenges to homeowners, engineers, and marine contractors. With sea levels rising and storms becoming more frequent, effective shoreline protection is no longer optional—it’s essential.

At Building Products Plus, we help property owners build smarter, more resilient shorelines using proven materials and techniques that stand the test of time.

What Is Coastal Erosion?

Coastal erosion is the gradual wearing away of shoreline land caused by waves, wind, tides, and currents. It may occur naturally or be accelerated by human activity, and it’s commonly intensified by:

• Rising sea levels due to climate change
• Intense storms and hurricanes
• Coastal development and vegetation removal
• Boat traffic and dredging

Unchecked, erosion can result in significant property loss, habitat destruction, and infrastructure damage.

Why Coastal Erosion Control Matters

Implementing proper erosion control prevents:

• Costly damage to homes, roads, and infrastructure
• Unsafe conditions around boardwalks or trails
• Environmental degradation, including wetland loss
• Legal penalties from regulatory non-compliance

With a well-executed plan, you can preserve land value, protect ecosystems, and reduce long-term repair costs.

Best Practices for Coastal Erosion Control

1. Living Shorelines

Ideal for: Low-energy coasts, residential properties, and parks

These nature-based solutions use vegetation, oyster reefs, and fiber rolls to buffer wave energy.

Benefits:

• Promotes biodiversity and habitat creation
• Naturally filters stormwater runoff
• Adapts and strengthens over time
• Qualifies for permitting incentives

Drawback: Less effective in high-wave environments

2. Vinyl Sheet Piling Seawalls

Ideal for: High-energy zones, marinas, commercial waterfronts

Vinyl sheet piling offers a long-lasting and low-maintenance alternative to wood or steel bulkheads.

Benefits:

• Resistant to rust, rot, and marine borers
• Lasts 50+ years in saltwater
• Clean aesthetic and eco-friendly profile

Tip: Top with timber caps for enhanced appearance and durability.

3. Riprap (Rock Revetments)

Ideal for: Slopes, dunes, and infrastructure protection zones

Layered boulders stabilize banks and break wave force.

Benefits:

• Strong, reliable erosion defense
• Allows water drainage
• Visibly effective immediately

Limitation: May appear too industrial in residential settings

4. Timber Bulkheads & Retaining Walls

Ideal for: Private shorelines, parks, and ranches

Marine-grade, pressure-treated wood walls provide a natural look with reliable support.

Benefits:

• Cost-effective
• Customizable to fit terrain
• Can include steps, landings, or benches

Best Practices: Use CCA-treated Southern Yellow Pine with weep holes for drainage

5. Coir Logs & Biodegradable Blankets

Ideal for: Short-term stabilization and wetland projects

These coconut-fiber-based products help hold soil while vegetation takes root.

Benefits:

• Fully biodegradable
• Supports native plant growth
• Simple to install on low slopes

Drawback: Not suited for rough wave action or deep water zones

6. Hybrid Solutions

Ideal for: Custom projects and high-traffic areas

Combining structural and natural methods can offer the best of both worlds. Examples:

• Riprap toe + vinyl wall
• EcoPile pilings + planted buffer
• Coir log + anchored geogrid + marsh planting

Key Considerations for Shoreline Stabilization

• Assess Site Conditions: Understand your shoreline’s soil, wave energy, water fluctuation, and storm history.
• Understand Regulations: Permits may be needed for any shoreline disturbance. Consult local environmental agencies.
• Plan for Maintenance: Vinyl and composite systems typically require less upkeep than untreated timber.
• Work with Experts: Partner with engineers, marine contractors, and environmental specialists to get it right the first time.

Shoreline Protection Products We Offer

At Building Products Plus, we provide high-performance materials designed to resist erosion and weathering:

• EcoPile Composite Pilings – Maintenance-free and made from 100% recycled materials.
• Vinyl Sheet Piling – Engineered for seawalls and bulkheads.
• Marine-Grade Timber – CCA-treated and poly-coated options.
• SnapJacket Piling Repair Sleeves – Reinforces damaged pilings without removal.
• Custom Timber Components – Trusses, bulkheads, and retaining wall systems built to your specifications.

We ship nationwide and offer custom fabrication to meet your project’s exact specs.

Protect the Shoreline. Preserve the Future.

Every site is unique. That’s why we work with you to design smart, site-specific solutions that blend durability with environmental responsibility.

Get Expert Help Today

✆ Call us at (800) 816-0335
🔗 Visit us at BuildingProductsPlus.com

Let’s build something that lasts—and protects what matters most.