Pilings
Treated wood remains the most affordable piling option but is the most vulnerable to marine borer activity, particularly in high-current areas like river mouths and inlets. Concrete and composite pilings resist marine borers entirely and generally outlast wood, at a higher upfront cost.
Decking
Pressure-treated wood is budget-friendly but needs regular sealing. Composite decking costs more but eliminates that maintenance cycle and typically lasts twice as long or more.
Hardware
This is where corners get cut most often, and where it matters most. Hot-dip galvanized or marine-grade stainless steel hardware costs more than standard galvanized fasteners but resists the brackish and saltwater corrosion that causes premature hardware failure across the First Coast.
Bulkheads and seawalls
Vinyl sheet pile systems generally outlast timber bulkheads by a wide margin and resist marine borers entirely, while concrete panel systems offer strong wave resistance for higher-exposure shorelines.