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Maintenance
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October 29, 2026
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2 min read

What is a king tide, and how does it affect your seawall and dock?

King tides hit hard this year. What they mean for seawalls and docks on the Space and Treasure Coasts, what to look for afterward and when to call.
Photo from one of our job sites. King tide water around a wooden dock and waterfront house.
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Short answer: a king tide is an informal name for the highest tides of the year. When the water rises that high, it puts extra stress on seawalls and docks. King tides hit hard this year and if your dock or seawall took a beating, we are available now to repair the damage. The photos on this page are from our own job sites, taken when high water came up over docks and waterfront yards.

How does a king tide affect a seawall?

Your seawall is what protects your shoreline from erosion. Extra-high water tests that protection and can show weak spots that were not obvious before.

King tide floodwater standing among palm trees and oaks in a waterfront yard
Photo from one of our job sites. High water standing in a waterfront yard.

How does a king tide affect a dock?

Docks, lifts and boat houses sit right at the water line, so high tides reach them first.

King tide floodwater up against a wooden dock, with rain ripples and trees along the bank
Photo from one of our job sites. High water up against a wooden dock.

What should I check after a king tide?

  • Damage to the seawall or erosion behind it
  • Damage to the dock, walkway or pilings
  • Damage to boat lifts and boat houses
King tide water covering a wooden dock walkway behind yellow caution tape that reads Do Not Enter
Photo from one of our job sites. A dock walkway underwater after a king tide, marked off with caution tape.

Before you head out on the water after a big tide, the Sebastian Inlet District webcam shows recent images and video of the inlet along with a tide chart.

Who repairs king tide damage?

We repair docks and seawalls and also provide 24/7 storm and water cleanup. After historic rainfall, use our Central Florida flood dock and seawall checklist. For wall type and height decisions, see which seawall fits a Treasure Coast shoreline and a completed example, our raised vinyl seawall, finger pier and lower dock. Once the plans are approved, we'll handle all paperwork submission to local and state agencies for permitting.

Get a free estimate

Tell us about your waterfront project and we will set up a time to look at your property. Call 772-664-6798, contact us or request a free estimate. You can also browse our marine construction services.

Our partners: Dockside Builders works alongside community, conservation and industry partners on Florida's Treasure and Space Coasts. Meet our partners.

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