October 3rd, 2015

Vinyl bulkheads are an excellent way to stop erosion while also adding a touch of visual beauty to a property. Sheets made from vinyl bulkhead material have quickly surpassed traditionally used materials due to their lower cost, resistance to UV rays, and resistance to marine borers that feed on other materials. Plus, vinyl bulkheads are much easier to install thanks to their uniformity.

But before you begin your own vinyl bulkhead installation project, consider the following tips:

• Getting the appropriate length. The vinyl bulkhead material can be cut according to your desired length. As a good rule of thumb, you’ll want as much of the sheet length underground as above. For example, a 14-ft. cut sheet should be installed so that approximately 7 ft. is in the ground and 7 ft. is exposed above. If you have poor soil and are already experiencing extreme erosion, you may consider putting more of the vinyl material below ground.
• Dig and frame. Use a jackhammer or an auger to dig holes into the ground for the piling framework. Use 2×6 treated timber boards for backfill and to act as a guide so you can install the vinyl sheets straight and even.
• Use nearby sand to your advantage. If you’re installing in sand you can use a trash pump to suck water from the adjacent waterway and blow it out the other end of a firehouse aimed at your work area. This water pressure will jet the sand out of your way and allow the vinyl bulkhead sheets to slide right into place.