StrongHold® Pile Repair for Waterfront Restaurant – The Blind Tiger, Fairhope, AL
Project Overview: Structural Stabilization on the Fairhope Pier
The Blind Tiger, a popular waterfront restaurant located on the Fairhope Pier overlooking Mobile Bay, underwent major renovations. During the process, the owner discovered significant deterioration in the support pilings beneath the building.
Given the restaurant’s location directly over water and its high foot traffic, a long-term, structurally sound repair was essential. MDH Foundation Repair was hired to stabilize the failing supports with the StrongHold® Pile Repair System.
Problem: Deteriorating Wood Piles Threaten Waterfront Structure
Upon inspection, MDH identified:
2 pilings with severe deterioration
5 pilings with heavy damage including pits, holes, missing layers, and checks
Remaining pilings were in moderate condition and showed early signs of degradation
Because the structure is built on a marine pier, the repair system needed to perform in wet conditions, provide long-term strength, and be compatible with ongoing renovations.
Solution: StrongHold® Pile Repair System for Seven Pilings
Marine-Grade Pile Reinforcement
MDH installed the StrongHold® Pile Repair System on seven wood pilings. Each system included:
A 60″ x 10″ x 10″ square jacket
Epoxy structural grout
A moisture-sealing cap
These components were engineered for submerged and semi-submerged use, delivering structural strength and protection from future water damage.
Permit Compliance and Engineering Oversight
Permits were already secured by the client. MDH submitted all repair specifications to the engineer of record, Russell Barton of Barton & Shummer Engineers, who approved the design and confirmed regulatory compliance.
Coordinated Construction Schedule
MDH worked closely with the owner and renovation team to complete the repairs swiftly and avoid delays to the restaurant’s reopening. Since the pile jackets were fully submerged, painting was waived for this project.
"We live in a 110-year-old Craftsman bungalow with a pier footing foundation. Due to her age and location on the lot, she needed a little reinforcement. I contacted two foundation repair companies, and MDH had the best plan and price. Kyle immediately quoted the job, and Kim followed up to schedule and confirm the appointment. Chris and the crew arrived on time, worked professionally, and delivered high-quality results. Shannon followed up after the job to ensure our satisfaction. I wish all contractors had this level of service! I highly recommend MDH Foundation Repair. They are EXCELLENT! Hopefully, I won't need them again for another 100 years!"
Frequently Asked Questions: Pile Repair for Marine Structures
Q: How long does a typical pile repair take?
A: Installation takes a few days to a week per piling, depending on damage and access.
Q: Why use the StrongHold® Pile Repair System?
A: It’s engineered for marine environments and delivers long-term reinforcement against rot, decay, and moisture exposure.
Q: Will this disrupt my renovation or restaurant operations?
A: No. We coordinate directly with your contractor to minimize disruption and keep your project on schedule.
Protect Waterfront Properties with MDH Foundation Repair
Do you own a restaurant, dock, or pier-based structure? Deteriorating piles can put your building—and your investment—at risk. MDH Foundation Repair specializes in marine-grade structural repair systems that restore integrity and prevent future failure.
Serving Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi.
Schedule your free inspection today and see why property owners across the Gulf Coast trust MDH for dependable structural solutions.
