refurbishment
Concrete marine structures are continually exposed to some of the most aggressive operating environments, including tidal chloride-rich waters, wave action, and severe weather events. Over time, these conditions can accelerate deterioration, placing the structural integrity, durability, and safety of assets at risk if not effectively managed.
CRL has extensive experience in the refurbishment and protection of marine assets, providing expert support from initial assessment through to delivery. We work closely with clients to define the scope of works and advise on the most appropriate access solutions—an essential factor in the successful execution of marine projects, where tidal movements, restricted working windows, and environmental constraints must be carefully managed.
Our teams have delivered projects using a wide range of access systems, including traditional scaffolding, suspended cradles, pontoons, and bespoke solutions for low headroom environments. For longer-duration projects, we also design and install specialist steel access structures to ensure safe, efficient, and uninterrupted working.
CRL provides expert advice and undertakes the full range of survey and assessment works required for marine structures. Detailed condition surveys are delivered by our specialist sister company, CRL Surveys, enabling informed decision-making and the development of robust, targeted refurbishment strategies.
Marine refurbishment works frequently require the breakout of high-strength concrete, often in significant volumes. In such cases, hydrodemolition offers an effective and controlled method of concrete removal while preserving sound substrate and existing reinforcement.
Environmental considerations are integral to our approach. Where required, we design and implement systems for water capture, treatment, and containment, alongside appropriate safety measures, to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and best practice.High chloride exposure significantly increases the risk of both incipient and ongoing corrosion in marine structures. CRL has extensive experience in the design and installation of corrosion mitigation systems, including Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP), which can extend the service life of marine assets by 50 years or more.
We have cathodic protection systems in marine environments that have been operating successfully for over 25 years, continuing to provide effective, long-term protection. Depending on asset condition and exposure, we also design and install galvanic and impressed current systems, particularly below water level where Accelerated Low Water Corrosion (ALWC) may be present. CRL provides full design, installation, and guidance on system performance and expected lifespan.
In certain circumstances, protective coating systems are applied to provide additional defence against aggressive marine exposure. These systems are often used in combination with cathodic protection to deliver a holistic corrosion management strategy.
CRL also undertakes a range of ancillary and specialist works commonly associated with marine assets, including:
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Refurbishment of chains, Hi-Dacs, and fender support systems
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Repair and replacement of pipework suspended beneath jetties
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Repair of unprotected steel piles and sheet piling affected by accelerated low water corrosion
Where steel elements are affected, repairs may include over-plating followed by the application of protective coatings, wraps, or the installation of cathodic protection systems to ensure long-term durability.
Related Projects
“CRL were very professional in their approach and in executing the works carried out”
Rob Green | Site Manager | Raymond Brown Construction (Haslar Bridge, Gosport)
