If you grew up next to water, you will know what riprap is – you will remember climbing over it as a kid. But how much do you really know about it? Here are 5 tidbits of information that may be able to help you decide whether riprap is right for your property:
- It’s not just for shorelines. You can use riprap anywhere where erosion from water is, or will be, an issue. Usually, it’s used on shorelines of rivers and creeks to prevent erosion caused by movement in those bodies of water. But these aren’t the only places you’ll see it. Another place where it’s very useful is on a steep graded hill to prevent weather-related erosion.
- Riprap actually absorbs waves, unlike seawalls and other erosion control measures, which deflect waves to other shoreline areas.
- Riprap helps to create habitats for wildlife. During high or mean tides, it is typically covered by water, making it perfect for small water creatures seeking shelter.
- Climate determines the size of rock used for riprap. Exposed areas require larger stones than more protected areas.
- One of the very first forms of erosion control was riprap. It was even used on the Panama Canal’s dams, construction of which was only completed in 1914, even though it began in the early 1800s.
From dredging services and dock systems to retaining walls, floating docks and sea walls, our team at Renegar Construction can help with any project in the Lake Norman area of North Carolina. Contact us today for more information.