Building a boat ramp can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to working with water. Boat ramp construction is a complex process that requires careful planning, skilled engineers, and the right equipment. One of the most useful tools for boat ramp construction is a cofferdam, a temporary structure that can be used to create a dry work environment in water. Here, we’ll explore the benefits of using a cofferdam for boat ramp construction and how it can help builders save time, money, and energy.
Controlling Water Flow: A cofferdam provides an effective solution to control the flow of water during boat ramp construction. Constructing a temporary barrier around the site prevents water from entering the work area, allowing builders to work in dry conditions. This means that machines and tools can operate with ease, and workers can move around without worrying about the risks of submerged workplaces.
Safety: Safety is paramount in any construction project, and boat ramp construction is no different. The cofferdam offers a safe work environment for workers, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. It also ensures that workers have a stable platform that is free from slippery surfaces and water currents.
Flexibility: Cofferdams are versatile in design, and they can be customized to fit the specific requirements of a boat ramp construction project. They come in different shapes and sizes, and they can be assembled and disassembled quickly, making them a convenient choice for projects of any scale. They can also be adjusted according to fluctuations in water levels, which is an essential feature in tidal waters.
Cost-Effective: Using a cofferdam for boat ramp construction can lead to significant cost savings. It allows builders to access the work area easily, reducing the need for expensive excavation and dredging work. The dry work environment also means that machines and equipment have a longer lifespan as they are not exposed to water damage.
Environmental Impact: Using a cofferdam for boat ramp construction can have a positive impact on the environment. By controlling water flow, it reduces the risk of soil erosion and sedimentation, which can harm aquatic ecosystems. It also reduces the need for dredging, which is an activity that can disturb natural habitats and ecosystems.
- Understanding a Cofferdam:
A cofferdam is a watertight enclosure that is dewatered temporarily for a specific use such as boat construction or bridge repairs. This temporary enclosure surrounds a construction site, reduces the inflow of water, and provides a dry work environment. This method is suitable for shallow water depths. Common cofferdam systems are sheet piles, earthen berms, and sandbags but with extensive research and development, the Aqua-Barrier ® water-inflated dam has been created to act as a temporary cofferdam as well. The Aqua-Barriers are non-erodible, user-friendly, and can be installed up to 5x faster than the traditional cofferdam systems, making them a better alternative to site dewatering.
- Building Your Boat Ramp Foundation:
After installing the cofferdam and pumping the water out, the next step is to build your boat ramp foundation. A solid foundation will ensure that the ramp is stable and able to withstand the weight of boats. Concrete is the most popular material used in building boat ramp foundations. The thickness of the foundation depends on the weight of the boats and the soil-bearing capacity.The concrete is poured into the cofferdam, and after curing, the temporary cofferdam is removed, leaving a solid concrete foundation.
- Adding Reinforcement:
Once the concrete foundation has cured, the next step is to reinforce it. Reinforcing steel bars helps to increase the strength of the boat ramp foundation. The steel bars are placed in the cofferdam before pouring the concrete. Using a boat ramp without reinforcement can make it prone to cracks and damage. Reinforcement also provides longer life to your boat ramp.
- Placing the Ramp Slope:
The next step is to place the ramp slope. The ramp slope is the inclined part of the boat ramp that reaches the waterline. The ramp slope should be gentle (not excessively steep) so that boats can easily be launched and retrieved. It is recommended that the slope angle be between 8 and 15 degrees. The slope must be smooth (avoid abrupt changes in gradient), and its surface must be non-slippery.
- Finishing the Ramp:
After constructing and establishing the boat ramp’s foundation, reinforcement, and slope, you can finish up the ramp by adding some final touches. These can include the addition of railings, widening the ramp, and constructing a waiting area or parking lot. Railings are essential as they help protect people from falling into the water while using the ramp. The waiting area/parking lot is important for people to park their cars or move at a safe distance while waiting for their turn to use the ramp.
Cofferdams offer many benefits for boat ramp construction projects, from controlling water flow to ensuring safety on the worksite. Additionally, they provide cost savings and environmental benefits, making them a smart and practical choice for any boat ramp construction project. By using a cofferdam, builders can create a dry work environment and construct a boat ramp that is safe, durable, and sustainable. Contact your local cofferdam supplier for more information on how it can help your boat ramp construction project.
For the past 27 years, we’ve been the number 1 provider of temporary flood protection, damming, and dewatering solutions for multiple applications worldwide. The Aqua-Barrier® water-inflated cofferdam is offered in a wide selection of working heights and dimensions to provide you with the highest level of protection available. This fact is just one of the reasons we’re trusted across the world to ensure worksites stay dry and protected. Want to learn more? Contact us at any time or come see us in person at our world headquarters in Waller, Texas!
