What Are the Differences Between Sediment Control and Erosion Control?

If you’re a homeowner, you may have encountered problems with runoff and sought out solutions. During your search, you likely came across terms like ‘sediment control’ and ‘erosion control.’ You might wonder, what exactly is the difference between these two?

This article aims to outline the difference between erosion control and sediment control and assist you in selecting the most appropriate method for your soil protection needs.

Understanding Sediment Control

Sediment control refers to the reactive measure or response used to capture soil that is already being carried, at least before it can completely escape from a construction site. Sediment control is also a method used to stop sediments from a building site from getting washed into drains, gutters, and waterways.

Sediment control techniques are designed to capture runoff and contaminants, and some of these techniques include:

• Silt Fences: These devices are built to keep sediments from reaching nearby streams and lakes. Silt fences are held in place by posts made using porous material, which captures the flowing sediment without blocking the flow of water. When they get bogged by too much soil, the silt fences are usually replaced.

Read more: 5 Key Reasons to Opt for Silt Fences in Erosion Control

• Storm Drains: Storm drains are built to protect inlets, and there are covers placed over storm drains to prevent runoff from getting into sewer lines. The covers can be made of fabrics, sod, gravel, and any other material that allows clean water to pass through but not sediments.

Erosion Control

Erosion control is a preventative measure adopted to stop soil and sediments from detaching and running off from the site. While prioritizing safety, erosion control entails the creation of a physical barrier to break the energy of wind or water, thus preventing that energy from causing soil erosion. There are different erosion control techniques, including:

• Geotextiles: These are synthetic materials made using logs, mats, and wattles that absorb and filter runoff to control the amount of soil carried away from a given site.
• Retaining Walls: Retaining walls act as erosion control techniques by containing water and runoff, preventing their escape.
• Mulch: Mulches are suitable for flat surfaces as they help absorb water, preventing that water from gaining speed to pick up loose soil and carry it away.

Read More: Top Tips on How to Prevent Your Freshly Laid Mulch from Washing Away

Sediment Control vs. Erosion Control

Sediment control and erosion control are both crucial in preventing and controlling erosion. Still, these two methods operate uniquely, with erosion control stopping soil from detaching and sediment control capturing already-flowing soil from escaping a construction site.

Read More: The Basics of Erosion Control: What You Need to Know

What Control Measures Are Right for You?

Sediment control and erosion control are both suitable for preventing soil movement from identified sites. However, using the right measure in the right place will save you time and effort. If you’re facing issues with residential drainage in Sandy Springs, Erosion Management Services can assist you by implementing tailored solutions that will protect your property. We also offer services in Winder, Roswell, Johns Creek, Marietta, and other locations, ensuring comprehensive coverage for a wide range of areas. Contact us today.