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Why Are GeoTubes Better Than Sheet Piling Cofferdams?

When creating temporary or semi-permanent barriers in marine and coastal projects, choosing the right solution is critical. Two commonly used methods are GeoTubes and Sheet Piling Cofferdams. While both serve important purposes, GeoTubes offer several advantages in terms of cost, speed, and environmental impact—especially in shallow and nearshore projects.

What Is a GeoTube?

A GeoTube is a high-strength geotextile mesh bag filled with a sand–water slurry. Once filled, the sand settles and water drains out, forming a solid, stable barrier.

GeoTubes are designed to:

• Hold back water effectively

• Create cofferdams or temporary enclosures

• Protect shorelines and marine structures

• Be installed without disturbing the seabed

Advantages of GeoTubes Over Sheet Piling Cofferdams

1. No Seabed Penetration Required

GeoTubes rest directly on the seabed and do not require piling or drilling.
This eliminates the need for:

• Soil tests

• Geotechnical investigations

• Seabed clearance reports

This makes GeoTubes ideal for sensitive seabed conditions and environmentally restricted areas.

2. Faster and Easier Installation

GeoTubes can be deployed and filled quickly using locally available sand.
Unlike sheet piling, they do not require heavy piling equipment, vibration, or complex alignment procedures.

This significantly reduces:

• Project timelines

• Mobilization requirements

• Operational downtime

3. Cost-Effective Solution

Compared to sheet piling, GeoTubes are:

• Less expensive to manufacture

• Cheaper to transport

• Faster to install

This makes them an excellent option for small to medium-scale marine projects, emergency works, and temporary cofferdams.

4. Strong Water-Sealing Capability

Once filled, GeoTubes:

• Compact naturally as water drains

• Form a dense, stable mass

• Effectively hold back water without additional reinforcement

Their ability to seal and retain water makes them highly reliable for cofferdam applications.

5. Environmentally Friendly

Because GeoTubes:

• Do not disturb the seabed

• Create minimal turbidity

• Use natural fill material (sand)

They are considered a low-impact and eco-friendly solution, particularly in coastal and nearshore environments.

When Is Sheet Piling the Better Option?

Sheet piling cofferdams are more suitable when:

• Working in greater water depths

• High structural loads are required

• Long-term or permanent structures are needed

• Piles must be driven deep into the seabed for stability

However, sheet piling:

• Is significantly more expensive

• Requires extensive soil testing and approvals

• Needs specialized equipment and skilled labor

• Takes longer to install

Conclusion

For shallow waters, temporary works, emergency projects, and environmentally sensitive areas, GeoTubes are often the better choice. They provide a strong, fast, and cost-effective barrier without the complexity and high costs associated with sheet piling cofferdams.

Sheet piling remains valuable for large-scale, deep-water, and permanent marine structures, but when simplicity, speed, and cost-efficiency are priorities, GeoTubes offer a superior alternative.