How Greenheart Timber Is Used in High-Durability Marine Projects Like Piers and Seawalls

Timber has been used in marine construction for centuries. In fact, the oldest boat discovered dates back to 8000 BC and was made by hollowing out a tree trunk; simple but effective! While construction techniques have come on leaps and bounds since then, timber is still very much a staple in British marine projects, and Greenheart is a firm favourite.

Find out in this guide more about this durable timber species and why it is perfect for piers, seawalls and everything in between.

Why Is Greenheart Used in Marine Projects?

Greenheart timber is a hardwood species native to the forests of Guyana and prized for its extraordinary density, strength and natural resistance to marine borers such as Teredo navalis – the dreaded shipworm. In fact, Greenheart has one of the highest durability ratings of any commercially available timber! Its close grain and high silica content make it incredibly resistant to rot and abrasion, even with direct and prolonged exposure to saltwater.

This makes it perfect for high-durability marine projects, where materials such as steel might corrode and weaker timbers would not stand a chance. It is capable of withstanding the constant wet-dry cycles of tidal environments, wave impact and even physical abrasion from vessels or floating debris.

Greenheart Applications for Marine Construction

We have made it pretty clear that Greenheart is one of the best choices for marine projects, but what exactly can it be used for? Let’s take a closer look:

• Piers: Greenheart is ideal for structural piles and decking, providing the strength and water resistance needed to handle tidal forces and heavy foot traffic.
• Seawalls: Natural durability makes Greenheart perfect for withstanding constant wave action and resisting rot in long-term coastal defence systems.
• Lock gates: Alongside Oak and Ekki, Greenheart is one of our top picks for British lock gates.
• Fenders and groynes: Dense and impact-resistant, Greenheart absorbs collisions from vessels without splintering, protecting both the dock and the boats with impressive strength.

Using Greenheart for UK Marine Projects

When it comes to your marine project, Greenheart is one of our top picks. But do not just take our word for it! The proof of our love for Greenheart is in our projects, where we have been using this durable timber species for years.

Take a look at our work on the Putney Embankment Foreshore in Central London, for instance, as part of the Thames Tideway project. We supplied over 100 boards of FSC®-certified Greenheart to create the pier, and they are now part of the historic London river and will remain so for many decades to come.

Order Greenheart Timber for Marine Projects

Incorporating Greenheart timber into marine construction projects offers a sustainable and durable solution which meets the demands of challenging environments. Ready to learn more about Greenheart timber prices or start an order? Reach out to the EcoChoice team today and let’s get your marine project started.