Avoid These 3 Risky Construction Erosion Control Products

​Selecting the best construction erosion control products remains a priority in construction planning. Choosing the wrong product can mean construction delays, environmental disturbances, and costly reapplication processes. While the market has many options, some are better left on the shelf. In this article, we'll highlight three types of construction erosion control products that might seem appealing for soil stabilization but have some major downsides. Let's jump right in. 

 1. Plastic Netting 

Plastic netting is often pitched as an easy solution for erosion control. These construction erosion control products come in various options, from polypropylene to polyester types. While manufacturers boast that these products are great for facilitating vegetation growth and trapping eroded sediment, the environmental impact of plastic netting is often overlooked. 
 
Environmental Concerns 

Unfortunately, the material used to create plastic netting products isn't biodegradable and can often entangle wildlife, especially reptiles, amphibians, and small animals. Additionally, as these plastics break down over time, they can lead to plastic fragment runoff into nearby bodies of water or soil. 

Alternatives to Plastic Netting

Fortunately, there are several environmentally friendly erosion control products to help protect soil and vegetation. Netting or erosion control blankets (ECBs) made with natural fiber such as jute or coconut coir are biodegradable. They can provide an effective solution without the negative environmental impacts of plastic netting. 

2.  Water Spray

Water is often the go-to option for many construction companies. Of the many construction erosion control products out there, it's often the most commonly used due to its initial low cost. However, considering it requires constant reapplication, it can be a more labor-intensive and costly construction erosion control product.

The True Cost of Water for Erosion Control

Your construction project's geographic reason, season, and climate will impact how adequate water is for erosion control. If you're in a dry environment, water won't last as long on the soil's surface, and you'll need to continue reapplying it. If your construction project is in a humid or wet region, water can pool up at the base of slopes, leading to soil saturation and potential landslides. Consider the longer-term costs of water before you opt for it as an erosion control solution. 

Alternatives to Water Spray

Many biodegradable alternatives use naturally derived materials if you like the water spray technique. For example, polymer-based solutions like Envirotac road dust control products can be sprayed and bonded with the surface topsoil for immediate performance, saving time and money.

3.  Chloride Construction Erosion Control Products

Chlorides are a popular choice for construction erosion control because they come in three forms—calcium, sodium, and magnesium—and can be used in various applications. Plus, chlorides are also relatively inexpensive compared to other products on the market. However, the drawbacks may lead you to reconsider chlorides for your next project. 

The Problems with Chlorides

Despite their popularity, chloride chemicals are corrosive, posing a risk to machinery and other construction materials. The additional costs for replacing or repairing equipment can quickly add up. On top of those risky costs, if chloride chemicals leech into local waterways through runoff, they can result in expensive fines and penalties related to the Clean Water Act and other regulations. 

Better Alternatives 

There are more cost-effective, eco-friendly options for construction erosion control products than chlorides. For example, biodegradable fiber rolls or acrylic copolymer sprays are both excellent alternatives that provide effective, long-term protection without the potential risks of corrosion or fines. 

Select the Top Construction Erosion Control Products

Before you embark on your next construction project, ensure you have the best erosion control products in your toolbox. Nowadays, there are plenty of options that won't put your construction site at risk for hefty fines or costly delays. 

Consider Envirotac or Earth Glue for your erosion and dust control needs. Our line of polymers offers robust soil stabilization, ensuring that your projects are not only durable but also eco-friendly. Contact us today to make the responsible choice for your construction projects.