Marine Foundation Repair Services

We probe and hammer-test each pile to determine remaining structural capacity. A pile with less than 50% of its original cross-section remaining — due to marine borers or rot — typically requires replacement. Piles with surface deterioration but remaining core integrity can often be fiberglass-wrapped and returned to service.

If sinking is caused by soft soil settlement rather than pile failure, helical pier underpinning can stabilize and potentially raise the dock without piling replacement. We assess the root cause before recommending a repair method.

Marine borers are wood-boring marine organisms — primarily shipworms (Teredo navalis) and gribbles — that hollow out timber pilings from the inside. Heavily infested pilings look sound on the outside but have lost most of their structural capacity. Annual inspection and protective pile wraps are the most effective prevention.

Coverage depends on your policy and the cause of damage. Storm-related foundation damage is often covered under the dwelling or other structures portion of your policy. Gradual deterioration typically is not. We provide detailed documentation and repair estimates to support insurance claims.

Structural repairs typically require permits. Over-water work on navigable waterways may require DEP and Army Corps authorization. We assess the permit requirements and handle all applications as part of our repair service.