Erosion is a threat to any construction or landscaping project near a body of water. Fortifying your structure with erosion control rocks is the best way to prevent water or weather damage. While there are many types of stone to choose from, few can beat the qualities of rip rap stone.
Limestone rip rap can be placed along any shoreline, steep slope, or foundation to defend against harmful elements and protect your investment long term. Keep reading to learn more about the material’s advantages and how you can prevent erosion.
How Does Rip Rap Prevent Erosion?
Scouring and erosion wreak havoc on construction projects without proper protection. Unchecked erosion compromises your property, washing out everything along and beyond your shoreline. However, you can’t surround your structure with any old rock and expect it to survive the weather. The type of material selected has a big impact on the longevity of your project.
Rip rap is a durable, natural, and environmentally friendly solution. Over time, erosion pulls away materials from your shoreline, and storms and floods accelerate the effects. Building a retaining wall to absorb the energy of rushing water and protect your shoreline ensures your property stands the test of time. Rip rap is the protective layer that prevents water from disturbing your soil. Rather than erode your shoreline, the water flowing to your property wears down the rocks at a much slower rate.
While rip rap doesn’t need to be set like cement or paving stones, you do need to install it purposefully. The sea wall absorbs wave energy and deflects the water flowing along the shoreline. With deliberate spacing between your rip rap stones, you can create channels that divert water consistently, reducing the impact of erosion.
How Long Does Rip Rap Last?
The longevity of rip rap varies depending on the materials you use. Rip rap stones installed thoughtfully and routinely inspected can last for generations. Rip rap requires much less maintenance than wood or steel. It’s good to check on your sea wall after heavy snow or a rainstorm, replacing any displaced, worn, or slumping stones.
You can perform most sea wall treatments by hand. Heavy equipment is only needed in extreme situations. If you have any woody vegetation around your sea wall, you should clear it from the rip rap stone at least once a year. Tree roots can dislodge the rocks and compromise your sea wall. Also, remove debris, fallen trees, and any other obstructions from your channel bank that could impact your rip rock stone wall.
How Much Is Rip Rap Rock?
The cost of rip rap varies depending on location and the type of material selected. A cost of $35 to $75 per cubic yard of ungrouted rip rap can be used as a basic quote, while grouted rip rap stone can cost anywhere from $45 to $60 per square yard.
To determine how much rip rap you need, measure the cubic yards you have that need coverage, or contact a local professional who can help you design and implement your rip rap stone solution. With the right experts on your side, you figure out exactly how much material you need to prevent erosion and how to install the rocks strategically.
It’s essential to select rip rap stone material that can survive the seasons. Well-graded rocks of various sizes form a solid sea wall with a robust interlocking system. Get enough rip rap stone to reach the top of the bank and consider using a chain link wire mesh to secure your sea wall.
Build a Wall To Last a Lifetime With Pontotoc Services
Not just any rock can provide the protection you need to keep your property safe from erosion. Pontotoc makes sure you get it right the first time by delivering high-grade crushed limestone rip rap stone that has the strength to absorb energy from currents, water runoff, and waves while simultaneously moving it away from critical areas.
We build you a shoreline erosion strategy according to your specific needs. We learn your situation and use our network of coastal engineering experts to design and direct your rip rap stone installation. Are you ready to protect your property? Reach out today.
