Submerged structural elements — such as bridge piles, sheet pile bulkheads, piers, and mooring structures operate in one of the most challenging environments on Earth. Constant exposure to water, oxygen, chlorides, biological growth, and mechanical wear can accelerate corrosion and deterioration, threatening structural integrity and shortening service life. Protective coatings are one of the most effective ways to prevent corrosion, extend asset life, and reduce long-term maintenance costs.

Specialized Expertise in Underwater Coatings

Commercial Diving Services, Inc. has a long history of solving complex coating challenges in the marine industry. Since 2004, we have successfully applied high-performance underwater coatings to critical infrastructure across the Southeast — from New Orleans, LA to Ft. Lauderdale, FL including:

  • Bridge substructures and piles

  • Bulkhead and sheet pile walls

  • Marine terminals and port infrastructure

  • Offshore platforms, risers, and mooring structures

  • Pier and dock substructures

Certified Applicator of Alocit — A Proven Underwater Coating System

We are proud to be the only certified underwater applicator in the Southeast for Alocit, a high-performance epoxy coating system approved by both the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Navy for use in marine and subaqueous environments.

About Alocit

Alocit is a two-part, solvent-free epoxy coating specifically engineered for application on wet or submerged surfaces. It forms a tough, impermeable barrier that bonds directly to steel or concrete substrates, even underwater. It also provides long-term corrosion protection without the need for dewatering.

 

Key features of Alocit include:

  • Underwater Application: Designed to be applied directly by diver coating specialists in fully submerged conditions.

  • Superior Adhesion: Bonds to damp, wet, or fully submerged steel and concrete surfaces, even when surface preparation is limited by access or environmental conditions.

  • Exceptional Durability: Resistant to abrasion, impact, saltwater, chemicals, and biological fouling.

  • Industry-Proven Performance: Used for decades by the U.S. Navy, Army Corps of Engineers, and major port authorities worldwide.

  • Manufacturer Warranty: When applied by a certified applicator, Alocit often carries a 10-year manufacturer guarantee, providing owners with long-term confidence and reduced lifecycle costs.

 

This level of reliability and performance makes Alocit a preferred solution for critical infrastructure where conventional coating systems are impractical or impossible to apply.

Our Coating Process

Applying coatings underwater requires a combination of specialized training, equipment, and technique. Our diver coating teams follow a proven methodology to ensure the best possible results:

  1. Condition Assessment
    We begin with a detailed inspection to evaluate substrate condition, corrosion activity, fouling, and surface preparation needs.

  2. Surface Preparation
    Surfaces are mechanically cleaned to remove marine growth, corrosion products, and contaminants, maximizing coating adhesion.

  3. Application by Certified Diver Coating Technicians
    NACE-informed divers apply the coating system directly to the submerged surface using proprietary underwater techniques to achieve uniform thickness and coverage.

  4. Quality Control and Verification
    Every project includes coating thickness measurements, adhesion checks, and comprehensive documentation. NACE-certified inspectors verify compliance with project specifications and manufacturer standards.

Applications and Benefits

Underwater protective coatings are used across a wide range of infrastructure and provide measurable benefits, including:

  • Bridges & Transportation Structures – Extend the life of substructure piles, caps, and abutments without costly replacement.

  • Bulkheads & Sheet Piles – Halt corrosion and section loss in waterfront retaining systems and port infrastructure.

  • Ports & Terminals – Maintain operational uptime by repairing and protecting steel structures without dewatering.

  • Marine Vessels & Offshore Assets – Provide long-term corrosion control for submerged hulls, risers, and mooring components.

 

Benefits of underwater coating systems include:

  • Corrosion Mitigation: Prevent steel loss and structural degradation.

  • Cost Efficiency: Avoid expensive dewatering, cofferdams, or replacement.

  •  Extended Service Life: Protect assets for decades with minimal maintenance.

  • Operational Continuity: Complete work while facilities remain in service.

  •  Regulatory Compliance: Meet or exceed standards set by the U.S. Navy, Army Corps, and NACE.