Rip rap stone is a combination of rock materials used to prevent erosion along shorelines, bridge abutments, and other areas near water. Curiously, the stone actually receives its name from the nautical term “rip-rap,” which refers to a span of rippling water resulting from elevation changes below the water’s surface.

What Is Rip Rap Made Of?

The material often comprises more than one type of rock. Some of the most common aggregates consist of granite and limestone. However, it can also be comprised of concrete rubble, which is produced by the demolition of buildings and other structures.

What Are Its Primary Purposes?

In addition to preventing erosion along shorelines and structures extending beneath the water’s surface, rip rap can also be used for several other functions. The largest stones measure 9 inches or more in diameter and are reserved for water-based applications, but there are some other purposes for which smaller sizes are useful.

Stones measuring 6 to 9 inches, for instance, are ideal for milder shorelines, such as those found on lake shores and beds of small streams. Since the stone isn’t quite tread-friendly, it can be used to deter people and animals from walking along privately owned waterways. Additionally, this medium-sized stone is ideal for building retaining walls, lining railroad tracks, and creating public gravel roads.

Finally, the smallest rip rap stones come in handy when used as bases for driveways and parking lots. Commonly found in sizes of 4 to 5 inches, these stones are sturdy enough to bear the weight of vehicles, but are even enough for relatively smooth driving. The smaller stones can also be used along walking trails and in gardening applications to prevent the development of weeds. They can also be placed around ditches to prevent further soil erosion.

No matter your application, Sierra Cascade Aggregate & Asphalt Products has the area’s best selection of rip rap to help meet your specific needs. Based in Chester, CA, the quarry plant has a wide array of gravel, asphalt, and aggregate to accommodate all excavating and paving projects. To learn more about their stone products, call (530) 258-4555, or visit their website for additional information.