FDG • July 17, 2019

Defencell & Coastal Erosion Control – The long term ‘temporary solution’ in Southern California

Receding coastlines are a problem throughout the world and a big one in Southern California where the question of how to prevent coastal erosion is a constant issue. Locals are quick to point out where the beach ‘used to be’ and are quick to attest to how quickly a single weather event will eat away at their coastal landscape never to return. This is growing problem resulting in the loss of thousands of acres of seafront property every year leaving property owners helpless to swallow the effects of property loss and resulting loss of property value.

When it comes to taking steps to protect your property from coastal erosion, there is a minefield of regulations which can become complicated, time consuming, and can leave property owners feeling frustrated and helpless. Additionally, these regulations are subject to change and typically vary from state to state.

prevent coastal erosion

(Photos: Reinforced coastline to stop beach erosion using a stacked Defencell configuration)

4 – Backfill the Defencell units with sand or soil and landscape as desired.  In this case, these units will likely be planted with native vegitation

Defense wall Coastal

Shoreline protection and beach restoration

Flood Defense Group is delighted to have Defencell as a tool in their toolbox to mitigate against this problem.  Coastal erosion control or the reinforcement/creation of coastal berms or earthen berms is another form of flood defense we can help with.  Protecting or reinforcing these coastal berms not only mitigates against the effects of erosion, it also act as a first line of defense for surging stormwaters from the ocean or large bodies water which can be destructive and erosive in nature.

Why is Flood Defense Group so excited about Defencell for this situation?

In addition to being a wonderful product, it is a fantastic long-term solution when only temporary measures are allowed!

We are constantly working with customers who are dealing with coastal flooding and erosion problems who are unable take permanent measures to protect themselves from erosion and the loss of property.  This often leaves property owners with no options but go through the process of stacking sandbags which are labor intensive, inherently unstable, and have a limited lifespan and capability in stopping erosion and/or floodwaters.

If you are trying to stop beach erosion, looking for methods to combat beach erosion, or are looking at how to restore a beach, Defencell is a great solution which easily confirms to a variety of situations.

Defencell is a soil/sand containment system made exclusively out of geotextile and can therefore be classified as, ‘a sandbag’.  This product is one of the single best alternatives to sandbags on the market and is quickly constructed, easily modified, and has a long-life span compared to traditional sandbags.

However, unlike a traditional ‘sandbag’, Defencell is easily filled with locally available machinery, stacked with ease to achieve a desired height of protection, and can subsequently be buried and vegetated with native vegetation which is helpful in blending it into the surrounding environment for a longer term and aesthetically pleasing solution.
https://www.flooddefensegroup.com/defencell/

The project sequence detailed below is an addition to an existing Defencell project which was initially used to protect the structure in the photograph.  After a recent storm, the existing traditional sandbag fortifications were strewn about the beach and notable erosion continued to take place whereas the Defencell units in place stayed strong and did not experience loss of fill material from the storm or resulting wave action which overtopped the units.

The decision was made to fortify additional sections of the beach they had remaining which is detailed below.  In this case, the end user was working to reinforce their beach to combat beach erosion, but this application can also be used in examples like seawall repairs, raising seawalls, reinforcing coastal berms, or simply creating a safe spot for native vegetation to take root.

This is a common sequence of building Defencell on eroding coastlines.

1 – The footprint was prepared by digging down a pre-determined number of feet below the existing shoreline prior to constructing the first course of the Defencell product
NOTE:  Some end users choose to line this footprint with a geotextile fabric

prevent coastal erosion

2 – Defencell units are stretched out, aligned as desired and filled with sand or soil
NOTE:  You can see this structure is keyed in by about 3’ should scouring occur

prevent coastal erosion

3 – Subsequent rows are stacked on top of lower rows to achieve desired height
NOTE:  This structure came to a final stack of 3 layers in a ‘stairstep’ configuration

 

prevent coastal erosion

Defencell is often chosen to stop coastal erosion or mitigate against it because not only is it effective, it is extremely inexpensive compared to most alternative options commonly found in the market or deployed in the coastal environment.

Common forms of hardening a beach to prevent coastal erosion consist of installing large rocks, rip rap, bulkheads, sheet piling, and concrete walls.  These structures are expensive, often difficult to get permitted for building, and leave a hardened beachfront whereas the Defencell product is extremely economical in comparison.  It is easy to build without specialized equipment or knowledge and allows for local fill material and vegitation which leaves a structure that does better at blending into the environment.

Similar to our opinion that there is no single best solution to stop all forms of floodwaters, we believe there is no best solution to stop coastal erosion or to prevent coastal erosion from happening but we do believe in the value of having a fantastic option in Defencell as one of the easiest and most effective metods on the market to stop coastal erosion or at least slow it down.

The lightweight nature of this product, simplicity of construction, and ability to use locally available fill material also make this product one of the easiest solutions to combat coastal erosion in even the most remote and hard to reach places where you may otherwise be forced to barge in rocks or rip rap.  It is environmentally inert, easily cut and modified during construction, and can be tailored to suite the most difficult of installation sites.

If your beach or coastline is eroding or if you are experiencing shoreline erosion of a lake, you appreciate the value of reacting with urgency to stop the problem that will only continue to get worse.  Defencell gives you options to combat coastal erosion in an economical option for both short term and long term applications when doing nothing is simply not an option.

If you are experiencing problems associated with beach erosion, coastal erosion, or other forms of erosion where water meets erosive soils, let us know and we would be happy to discuss options in using Defencell to combat these issues.  Whether you are looking for an immediate solution or are trying to price out any and all options available, the Defencell product is worth evaluating and comparing to options available.

If you are looking for feedback on how to protect your coastline, beaches, or lakefront property from erosion, please feel free to contact us to discuss any options we can provide.  We are happy to deliver a write-up on what we can provide to help you.  This will include detailing suggested materials required, construction time, and maintenance plans as applicable.  In providing feedback, it is always helpful to detail the height and length of protection you are looking to achieve as well as any details of the construction environment.  This can include details on soils you are building on, type of erosion you are experiencing, and any restrictions or special considerations for your work site and we are happy to details optionswe can assist with.  Pictures area always helpful in reviewing your unique situation and how we can help out.

Flood Defense Group believes that global warming is happening, weather systems are getting more violent, and our oceans are rising.  We believe that problems with coastal erosion will only get worse and likely accellerate as sea levels rise, storms become more violent, and greater amounts of moisture fall from the sky.  If you are experiencing problems associated with coastal erosion and resulting land loss, you likely appreciate that doing nothing is simply not an option and only immediate action can begin to resolve this problem.

Therefore, you will continue to find Flood Defense Group on the cutting edge of technology to combat flooding and the effects of erosion resulting from said floodwaters.  Our primary mission is to combat the effects of floodwaters but apart from that, we want to be helpful whenever we can.  We don’t care if you are using our products or not, if you need help or would benefit from an opinion of solutions available as it pertains to erosion control or combating floodwaters, let us know or give us a call anytime.  We will happily discuss any options we can assist with, other options on the market, and even home made or ‘fieldcraft’ options whenever appropriate.

We can be contacted anytime via email or phone and remain available to support you in any way we can.

 

Flood Defense Group
www.flooddefensegroup.com
1-208-585-1815

By M M August 23, 2025
Table of Contents Why Storm Season is More Dangerous How Our Flood Barriers Offer Stronger Defense Flood Wall Panels for Reliable Storm Protection Our Residential Flood Protection Solutions The Bottom Line Frequently Asked Questions Why Storm Season is More Dangerous Storm season is becoming more intense and unpredictable across the country. With stronger hurricanes, heavier rainfall, and rising sea levels, floods are affecting areas that never used to face such risks. This change is not temporary. According to NOAA, flooding remains one of the most damaging natural disasters in the United States every year. We see how these challenges affect homeowners, businesses, and entire communities. Every season, families lose their homes, and companies face costly shutdowns because of water damage. Our goal is to help people prepare before the storm arrives. That’s why we continue to design, build, and supply systems that work fast and perform under pressure. The more prepared we are, the more we reduce the impact. It is no longer enough to rely on outdated methods like sandbags. Flood conditions have changed, and the tools we use must evolve as well. How Our Flood Barriers Offer Stronger Defense We have worked with property owners across the country and seen firsthand how fast water can rise. That’s why we’ve made our barriers faster to deploy, easier to store, and more reliable in real conditions. When you get a flood warning, there’s no time to waste. Our systems are designed to go up quickly so you can protect your space right away. Compared to traditional sandbags, our flood barriers provide a better seal and are much easier to install. You don’t need a team or heavy lifting. Many of our systems, like our water-filled and air-filled barriers, can be set up by just one or two people. That means faster response and better coverage in less time. We also build our barriers to last. Floods are not one-time events, especially in high-risk areas. That’s why reusability is a key part of what we offer. Our barriers are strong enough to stand up to repeated use, season after season, without losing their protective power. And because different properties have different needs, we provide systems that adjust to fit. Whether it’s a small doorway or a wide building front, we make sure there’s a solution that works. Flood Wall Panels for Reliable Storm Protection Among our most trusted products are our flood wall panels. These are durable, easy to install, and built for long-term protection. We’ve seen them perform in homes, commercial buildings, and critical infrastructure sites with great success. Take our Hammerhead Aluminum Flood Wall System , for example. It’s a strong, dependable barrier that uses solid aluminum planks to form a tight seal. This system is ideal for locations that need heavy-duty protection against powerful floodwaters. It fits custom openings and stays in place, even during long storms. We also offer the Mayim Flood Barrier, which features a modular, interlocking design. It’s lightweight and easy to stack, yet offers excellent water resistance. It’s great for areas that need full perimeter protection or L-shaped coverage. Both systems have been used across the country in real storm events. From public works projects in coastal towns to residential homes in Florida, our flood wall panels are proving to be a reliable first line of defense. These panels are also reusable, meaning they can be stored and deployed as needed, saving costs over time. For families or property managers in flood-prone areas, this is an investment that brings real peace of mind. Our Residential Flood Protection Solutions We believe every property deserves the right level of flood defense. That’s why our range of flood protection solutions is one of the largest in the country. We don’t rely on a single product. We offer systems that work with different ground conditions, property sizes, and risk levels. Some homes may need a portable water-filled barrier. Others benefit more from a strong panel system. We have both, and more. From soil-filled barriers to flexible wall systems, we design solutions that match the situation. We understand that flood preparation starts with knowledge. That’s why we help our customers choose the system that fits their property best. Every home is different. Some have low entrances, while others face runoff from nearby streets. That’s why we take the time to match the right solution to the risk. Our residential customers rely on these systems to protect not just their buildings, but their belongings and families. And because these products are reusable, they’re ready for future seasons. With a proper plan in place and our equipment ready to deploy, families can feel more secure when storms approach. The Bottom Line We provide more than just barriers. We provide security. As flood events become more frequent, fast action and strong defenses are essential. Our wall panels offer a dependable shield against water damage. Along with our residential flood protection solutions , we help homeowners and businesses stay ahead of the storm. At Flood Defense Group, we believe in offering the right product for each situation. That’s why our lineup includes soil-filled, water-filled, air-filled, and anchored systems. And with products like the Hammerhead and Mayim barriers, we bring advanced technology to where it matters most. By choosing our systems, you’re not just preparing for one storm. You’re preparing for every storm that might come. And we’ll be here to support you with the best tools, real expertise, and tested protection that works when you need it most. Frequently Asked Questions
By M M August 19, 2025
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By M M August 12, 2025
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By M M August 5, 2025
Flood Defense for Oil & Gas Facilities Flooding near the Mississippi River is a growing concern for many industries, especially oil and gas facilities in Louisiana. These critical operations require long-term protection and a reliable structure that can hold back the force of river water. This is where our team stepped in. We chose HESCO Bastion as the best option for this project. It delivers strong and lasting protection while also adapting to the complex layout of the site. The goal was to build an 8-foot-high floodwall that could remain in place for years with little upkeep. It also had to surround active pipework and tie securely into a sloped earthen berm. Our experience with HESCO made this possible. This product stacks easily, resists erosion, and stands up to the pressure of high river levels. It’s one of the most cost-effective flood protection systems available today for both industrial and residential areas. Custom Solutions with HESCO Bastion We enjoy working with HESCO Bastion because it allows for creative builds. For this site, we needed to wrap the barrier around several exposed pipes and make it flow seamlessly into a grassy berm. Traditional floodwalls can’t always handle this level of detail. The key was in modifying the units during construction. HESCO Bastion's wire mesh design made it easy to adjust each section. We started by placing the units on each side of the pipe network. Then, we built a frame using mesh strips to form a strong seal around the pipes. After sealing the gaps with coil wires, we lined the section with geotextile and filled it with compacted sand. In this case, water was used to help pack the sand tight. Finally, we added spray foam around the pipe entry points to prevent seepage. These steps created a clean and secure connection, even with multiple pipes in place. Building Barriers Around Pipes Most barriers aren’t designed to go around fixed objects like piping. But in real-world settings, that’s often the challenge. That’s why we rely on HESCO Bastion. It offers a rare balance of strength and flexibility. To secure the pipes, we connected the modified wire mesh across the front and back of the barrier. Vertical mesh gave us structure, while horizontal pieces held the form tight. Once filled, the unit created a reliable seal that locked into place. We also included a spray foam layer around the piping. While not always required, spray foam is a smart way to reduce risk in high-pressure zones. It helps block small openings that might otherwise go unnoticed and helps build redundancy into the design. Tying Floodwalls to Natural Embankments One of the final challenges was tying the flood barrier into the existing berm. The embankment was covered in grass and even had layers of seashells, making it naturally resistant to erosion. We wanted to preserve this, so we avoided digging into it. Instead, we chose to modify the HESCO Bastion unit. We disassembled it and rebuilt it in place to match the slope. This allowed the barrier to visually and physically blend into the berm. By working with the natural shape rather than cutting into it, we maintained the berm’s stability and protected against long-term erosion. We added buttress cells for support where the floodwall met the embankment. These small attachments give the wall added strength without changing the core structure. They’re quick to install and make the system more secure during major flood events. The Bottom Line This project is a clear example of how adaptable flood protection systems can be when handled correctly. At Flood Defense Group, we tailor each solution to the site’s needs. We work with proven products like HESCO Bastion that are flexible, strong, and ideal for long-term flood control. Whether the job requires protecting oil and gas plants or flood barriers for residential areas , we bring the same level of care to every installation. Our team understands how to design barriers around complex infrastructure, tie into natural features, and reinforce systems for lasting strength.  We believe in flood defense that’s practical, proven, and built to last. Our success in Louisiana is just one example of how the right product combined with the right technique makes all the difference. FAQs
By M M July 29, 2025
Severe storms are a rising threat to commercial properties. Learn how businesses can reduce flood risks with protection systems, planning, and mitigation tools.
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By M M July 29, 2025
Learn how to build smarter DIY flood defense systems at home. Protect your property from flooding with effective, easy-to-follow prevention techniques.
Flooding
By M M July 24, 2025
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By M M July 24, 2025
Understanding Flood Risks During Hurricane Season Hurricane season brings heavy rains and strong winds that often cause flooding. Floodwaters can enter your home quickly and cause significant damage. Every flood event is different, so the best flood barrier for one home might not work for another. We know that protecting your home from flood damage is not about a single product but about the right combination of solutions tailored to your needs. Our experience shows that flood defense should be flexible. Whether your home faces slow rising water or sudden surges, we provide different types of barriers that suit the situation. From soil filled to air filled, water filled to water anchored, each barrier type works differently. This variety helps us build a flood defense plan that fits your unique risks during hurricane season. Effective Techniques to Protect Your Home Keeping water away from your home requires more than just putting up barriers. Our approach includes combining barrier systems with smart installation techniques. For example, water anchored barriers are secured in place using the force of water itself. This makes them strong against fast moving floodwaters. Soil filled barriers use weight and mass to hold back water and are great for longer flood events. Air filled barriers offer easy setup and can be reused many times, making them practical for frequent storms. Flood panel systems provide a rigid shield that fits over doors and windows, sealing off openings where water might enter. Choosing the right technique depends on your home’s location, flood type, and how quickly you need to respond. We always assess these factors to recommend the best method. Our goal is to prevent water from entering your home by stopping it before it reaches your walls and foundation. Our Flood Protection Services We offer home flood protection services designed to give you peace of mind during hurricane season. Our experts help you choose the best barriers from our large selection. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions because every home and flood situation is unique. From initial assessment to installation, we guide you through the entire process. Our team ensures that your flood barriers fit correctly and provide maximum protection. We also help with maintenance and advice on when to use each type of barrier. Using our flood protection services means you have a tailored plan that matches your property and flood risk. This reduces damage and recovery costs when storms strike. It also makes your home safer for your family. Choosing the Right Hurricane Flood Barriers When choosing hurricane flood barriers, it is important to consider the environment around your property. We offer multiple designs to meet different flood challenges. Water filled barriers are perfect for quick setup and strong defense against rising water. Soil filled barriers suit locations where you can leave them in place longer without disturbing the area. Air filled barriers are lightweight and easy to store, making them great for homes needing fast protection. Water anchored barriers use water pressure to stay in place, which works well in situations with strong currents or waves. Flood panel systems are ideal if you want a permanent or semi-permanent solution for entry points. We always recommend a mix of these barriers depending on your flood risk, budget, and the time you have before a storm hits. Our expertise helps you choose barriers that provide the best protection and fit your lifestyle. The Bottom Line Flood defense requires planning and the right tools. We offer the largest variety of flood barriers in the USA, ensuring that you get a custom solution for your home. Our flood protection services help you prepare for hurricane season by matching the barrier type to your needs. No two floods are the same, and neither are our solutions. By choosing hurricane flood barriers for homes from our wide selection, you protect your property efficiently and effectively. Reach out to us to create a flood defense plan that keeps water out and gives you confidence during hurricane season. FAQs
Flood
By M M July 19, 2025
Many say flooding never happened here before, but now it’s frequent. Explore the reasons behind rising floods and what communities can do to adapt.
By M M July 14, 2025
Introduction: Why Urban Flooding Is Rising Flooding is becoming more severe in urban areas. As cities expand, more surfaces are covered in concrete and asphalt. These materials do not absorb water, which means rainwater has fewer places to go. Instead of soaking into the ground, it flows into drainage systems. When these systems can’t keep up, streets and homes flood. The problem isn’t just about heavier storms. The design of cities has a big role to play. Large paved areas speed up water runoff. With fewer natural surfaces to slow the flow, flash floods happen more often. This makes flood prevention systems more important than ever before. The Role of Flood Prevention Systems Flooding doesn't just damage property—it disrupts lives. Homeowners need ways to protect their spaces when heavy rains arrive. Flood prevention systems are becoming a key part of modern home safety. These systems are designed to stop water before it enters the building. They vary in structure and size depending on the location and the expected water levels. Some homes need large barriers, while others may only need modular panels. What matters most is that these systems are tailored to suit the specific flood risks of a home. At Flood Defense Group, we offer an unmatched variety of solutions for this exact reason. Our catalog includes water-filled, air-filled, and soil-filled barriers, along with anchored options. This wide selection helps ensure each home gets the best possible protection. No single product can solve every problem, which is why diversity in design is so critical. Understanding the Impact of Hesco Flood Barriers Hesco flood barriers stand out for their strength and durability. These barriers are built using wire mesh containers filled with earth or sand. They create solid walls that can be deployed quickly and handle strong water pressure. Originally used in military defense, these barriers are now a go-to solution in flood protection. Their ability to cover wide areas quickly makes them a reliable choice for emergency response. For homes in high-risk zones, they provide a robust defense system that can be assembled in advance or when flooding is imminent. Hesco flood barriers are often chosen for their speed and efficiency. Unlike traditional sandbags, they can be installed faster and offer more support. For families looking for security during storm season, these barriers are a practical solution that holds up under pressure. How Surface Choices Shape Flood Risks The rise of impermeable surfaces is not just an architectural trend—it’s a growing hazard. When roads, driveways, and sidewalks replace soil and grass, water loses its natural escape route. Instead of draining slowly, it rushes toward the lowest point, often overwhelming drains. Urban planning rarely keeps pace with these changes. Drainage systems that were built decades ago can’t handle the volume of water caused by new developments. Even moderate rainfall can lead to serious flooding if runoff exceeds system capacity. This is why proactive protection is key. Homeowners in cities and suburbs need to assess their exposure. Flood prevention systems can make all the difference when drainage fails. By adding barriers or panel systems around vulnerable points, water can be stopped before it causes damage. The right surface around the home—like permeable pavers or green landscaping—also helps reduce runoff, but physical flood barriers provide that last, crucial line of defense. The Bottom Line As flood risks increase across the U.S., solutions must evolve. Cities are not likely to reduce their use of concrete anytime soon. That puts more pressure on homeowners to protect their property. At Flood Defense Group, we offer the most extensive selection of flood prevention systems for homes in the country, giving customers more control over how they prepare. Whether it's water-filled options or Hesco flood barriers, we focus on tailored protection. No single barrier fits all situations, but with the right tools, homeowners can stay one step ahead of the water. Our experience, product variety, and expert guidance make Flood Defense Group the top resource for flood protection planning. Frequently Asked Questions