Choosing the Right Riprap Size for Your Erosion Control Project
When it comes to erosion control, choosing the right material is only part of the equation. Choosing the right size matters, too.
Riprap is commonly used to protect soil from erosion in areas where moving water, runoff, or changing grades can cause instability. From drainage areas and creek crossings to riverbanks and coastal applications, the appropriate riprap size depends on the conditions and demands of the project.
At Landmark Materials, we carry a variety of riprap stone sizes to help contractors, developers, municipalities, and other customers find the right material for their specific application.
Baby Surge: 1"–6"
Baby Surge riprap stone ranging from 1 to 6 inches for drainage and erosion control
Often compared to the size of a grapefruit, Baby Surge is one of the smaller options available.
Its smaller size makes it useful for applications where drainage and erosion protection are needed without the scale of larger riprap.
Common applications include:
NRCS creek crossings
Ditch lining
Drainage applications
Baby Surge can be a practical solution for controlling water flow and helping protect areas susceptible to washout or erosion.
Type 3 Riprap: 6"–12"
Type 3 riprap stone ranging from 6 to 12 inches for slope stabilization and culvert outlets
Type 3 Riprap falls into the mid-size range, with stones approximately 6 to 12 inches in size, or roughly football-sized.
The larger stone provides additional stability for areas experiencing greater water movement or erosion concerns.
Common applications include:
Slope stabilization
Check dams
Ditch lining
Culvert outlets
For projects where smaller aggregate may not provide enough protection, Type 3 Riprap offers a heavier-duty option.
Type 1 Riprap: 12"–24"
Type 1 riprap stone ranging from 12 to 24 inches for riverbank and shoreline erosion control
For larger erosion control applications, Type 1 Riprap ranges from approximately 12 to 24 inches, putting it into small-boulder territory.
Its size makes it well suited for projects where significant stabilization and protection are required.
Common applications include:
Riverbank stabilization
Slope stabilization
Large culvert outlets
Coastal protection
From protecting shorelines to reinforcing slopes and waterways, Type 1 Riprap can provide the size and weight needed for demanding applications.
What If Your Project Requires Something Larger?
Not every erosion control project fits neatly into a standard category. Site conditions, water velocity, slope, engineering specifications, and other factors can affect the type and size of material required.
If your project calls for larger stone or you're looking for a specific material, talk with the Landmark Materials team about your needs.
Find the Right Material for Your Next Project
Whether you're working on drainage, a creek crossing, slope stabilization, a culvert outlet, or a larger erosion control project, Landmark Materials can help supply the material you need.
Have questions about availability or need a larger stone? Call Landmark Materials and let us know how we can partner with you on your next project. 678-306-1660