Early Warning Signs of Structural Damage to Jetties

From earthquakes to excess chloride exposure, numerous factors beyond your control can cause structural damage to your jetty. When such damage happens, you may not notice the warning signs immediately. If you learn how to recognise the earlier ones, you can call on professionals with experience in repairing jetties in order to avoid heavier costs later on.

Rust staining of metal structures due to chloride ion exposure

Jetties in marine environments come into contact with high volumes of chloride ions. While most structural engineers will create jetties that can weather such environments, natural disturbances can increase the chloride ion volume. Additionally, older structures may not benefit from the same degree of integrity.

In a lot of cases, modern jetties benefit from steel supports. Steel can weather corrosion more than many other forms of metal but won't withstand it forever. When a jetty, especially one that features steel, starts to show signs of corrosion it may need repair. If rust begins appearing, request a survey of the jetty.

Cracks and fractures appearing in unexpected places

While earthquakes aren't as commonplace in Australia as they are in some other countries, coastal areas sometimes feel the effects of strong tremors that are far offshore. While a single small incident might not result in damage, multiple ones over time can. 

If cracks and fractures start to appear along the jetty's concrete before its next repair or maintenance period, performing a survey before it deepens is essential. The right structural engineer can find the impact point and address it before the crack spreads outwards and results in the need for a complete replacement.

There are signs of distress along the deck

If you own a jetty that undergoes lots of foot traffic, it's natural to notice some distress in the form of wear. But if those signs of distress appear inconsistent with the deck's use, you may want to consider whether the wood is handling the chloride ion content of the sea as it should. Patches that begin to weaken, fracture or lighten suddenly may require replacement. If you replace them rapidly, you'll prevent an unexpected collapse.

Ultimately, the best way to prevent significant damage to your jetty is to adhere to its usual survey and maintenance period. However, that doesn't mean you shouldn't look out for early signs. It's especially important to do so when there's a significant change to the local environment, including adverse weather, earthquakes or a collision from a nearby ship