How Can Erosion Control Materials Protect Your Landscape?

​There are a variety of erosion control materials available to protect your landscape. Erosion control products work by slowing down the water flow rate and reducing the size of water droplets. These products help reduce soil loss, which is a major contributor to erosion and dust. Erosion control materials have different properties, so it is important to research before choosing one for your landscape. 

H​ow Do Erosion Control Materials Work?

Erosion is a natural geologic process that occurs in all kinds of environments. It is the wearing away of landforms and sediments by the action of wind, water, waves, or ice. Erosion control materials protect the soil from being eroded by water or wind. These materials can be natural or man-made.

What Are The Main Categories of Erosion Control Materials?

The three major categories of erosion control materials are: soil stabilization, vegetation stabilization, and rock protection. Soil stabilization is a process in which soil is made more stable by adding amendments and is popular on hillsides and banks prone to washouts or landslides. Vegetation stabilization is the process of using plants to help stabilize slopes and banks. Rock protection involves adding rocks to help stabilize slopes and banks.

Applications for Erosion Control Materials

Erosion control materials are typically used to prevent soil, sand, or gravel from being carried away by water or wind. However, erosion control materials can be used for a variety of applications. Some examples include:

• Protecting and stabilizing the banks of rivers and streams
• Preventing landslides
• Reducing the effects of stormwater runoff
• Protecting coastal areas and waterfronts
• Preventing erosion in construction sites

Ultimately, your project's terrain and scope will determine the erosion control materials that are right for your landscape.

Factors To Consider When Choosing Erosion Control Material

You need to consider many factors when choosing the best erosion control material for your landscape, such as slope, type of soil, and amount of rainfall. The most popular types of erosion control products include:
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• Planting trees and shrubs at the bottom of a slope
• Laying erosion control blankets on soil
• Installing a rip-rap around a lakeshore embankment
• Constructing retaining walls
• Spraying polymer soil stabilizers on the soil surface

The Proper Erosion Control Material for Your Landscape Can Make A Difference 

The use of erosion control materials can be a daunting task for many construction managers. It is not always easy to know which type of material will be best for your landscape. When deciding on what material you want to use to prevent erosion on your terrain, you should consider the following factors: cost, durability, appearance, and ease of installation.

Environmental Products & Applications, Inc. can help save you time, money, and provide peace of mind on your construction site. Contact us to find out how Envirotac can help reduce the costly problems caused by ineffective erosion control.