Understanding Erosion Control: The Key Construction Supplies

According to the latest research, 24 billion tons of soil are lost each year due to erosion. However, you can control that erosion if you have the right construction supplies.

But what materials are necessary for erosion control? If you want it to be successful and safe, then it's crucial you have the right materials.

Keep reading to discover what you should gather before you start working on your erosion control.

Concrete Blocks

To start with, you'll need to have articulated concrete blocks. These are revetment systems that you can construct in different shapes. They also come in different thicknesses so that you can use them for any type of project.

The blocks can form a grid and be interconnected units for erosion control. This will be helpful on embankments or waterways or for any drainage channels that were manmade. 

MSE Walls

Mechanically Stabilized Earth (MSE) walls can also be used for sediment control. These have actually become more popular than the normal concrete walls. 

There are many benefits of these walls when compared to concrete, but they're easier and quicker to install, more adaptable, and have better erosion control. 

Geotextiles

Geotextiles are used to control erosion and improve the soil over embankments, pipelines, and roads. 

They might have an open mesh weave, a closed fabric, a nonwoven surface, or a warp-knitted structure. There are different ones for different types of surfaces or purposes.

For example, you could get one for filtration, drainage, reinforcement, sealing, protection, and separation. 

Riprap

Riprap helps protect the soil from erosion in any area that has concentrated runoff. It's a layer of large stones that are locked together to act as a barrier on slopes that are unstable. 

These slopes might be unstable because of areas or problems that are receiving any large or concentrated flow. This can help minimize erosion from riverbeds and lakeshores. The soil won't be able to move through the riprap, which can protect the soil. 

Soil Nails

Soil nails help provide a resisting force against any slope failures. They're very easy and quick to install. These are great for beginners, and all you need to do is drill them into the soil.

You'll place steel bars with nails into the earth. The nails will be capped at the surface to create a barrier that is like retaining a wall. You can drive these nails into the soil and decide whether to grout them or not after you install them. 

Discover More of the Key Construction Supplies

These are only a few of the key construction supplies you'll need for erosion control, but there are many more things you'll want to gather.

Erosion control can be very challenging for someone who has never done it before. This is why it may be better to hire an expert in it. 

If you're looking for help with your erosion control, check out our products and services.