Natural erosion control methods are usually more cost-effective and sustainable, but sometimes site projects call for synthetic controls to protect bare soil and allow for seed germination.
Erosion control blankets (ECBs)–available in synthetic and natural blends–offer a temporary solution for erosion control on steep slopes or areas vulnerable to sedimentation.
With various erosion control blankets available, it can be challenging to know which one to select and how effective it can be for specific site applications.
This guide will discuss the science behind erosion control blankets, the different types available, and their effectiveness for erosion control.
What Are Erosion Control Blankets?
Erosion control blankets (ECBs) are rolled materials woven from natural or synthetic fibers, designed to be laid over exposed soil.
Think of ECBs as carpets or rugs designed to protect the underlying surface from damage. Thanks to their strong material construction, these products physically prevent water from penetrating the ground underneath and dislodging loose soils.
In addition to physically protecting bare soil from ECBs, it helps prevent soil displacement and surface runoff, promoting seed germination and root establishment. ECBs can help stabilize slopes and other areas vulnerable to erosion, sedimentation, and sliding soil during construction activity.
Where ECBs Are Commonly Used
Erosion control blankets are widely used in a variety of commercial and residential settings, including:
- Highway and roadside slopes
- Retention ponds and drainage swales
- Construction site perimeters
- Parks and recreation trails
- Streambanks and wetlands restoration
- Large residential developments or golf courses
Their versatility makes them a go-to solution for engineers, landscapers, and environmental contractors.
Types of Erosion Control Blankets
While we may refer to ECBs broadly as a single product, there is a massive variety of choices in the marketplace that differ by material, decomposition rate, and intended use. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ones:
1. Straw Blankets
Straw blankets are great for residential or low-impact commercial sites where grass or groundcover will establish within a season.
- Material: Natural straw fibers stitched together with biodegradable netting
- Best For: Moderate slopes, short-term protection (up to 12 months)
- Pros: Affordable, widely available, suitable for seed germination
- Cons: Lightweight—may require secure anchoring or erosion control staples
2. Coconut (Coir) Blankets
Coconut blankets are ideal for slopes near creeks, retention basins, or any area prone to long-term water exposure.
- Material: Coconut husk fibers (coir) with jute or biodegradable netting
- Best For: Steeper slopes, wetter environments, and longer-term use (up to 3 years)
- Pros: Stronger than straw, excellent moisture retention
- Cons: Slightly more expensive, heavier to install
3. Curlex
Curlex blankets, made from curled wood fibers (excelsior), are designed to conform to the soil surface for superior contact and stability, especially in areas with moderate slopes and moisture.
- Material: Excelsior (shredded aspen wood fibers), usually with biodegradable or photodegradable netting
- Best For: Areas with moderate moisture, light-to-moderate slopes, and where quick germination and strong soil contact are needed
- Pros: Excellent soil contact, moisture retention, and resistance to movement from wind or water
- Cons: Slightly bulkier to install than straw; may be more expensive than standard straw blankets
4. Synthetic or Permanent Blankets
These are used in heavy-duty construction, mining, and infrastructure projects where natural regeneration may be slow or insufficient on its own.
- Material: Polypropylene or plastic mesh; sometimes mixed with natural fibers
- Best For: High-traffic areas, drainage channels, or permanently exposed slopes
- Pros: Durable, reusable in some cases, resistant to UV and rot
- Cons: Not biodegradable, more expensive, less eco-friendly
Factors to Consider When Choosing an ECB
Selecting the right erosion control blanket means understanding your site’s specific needs. When choosing the right material, keep these factors in mind:
- Slope Steepness: The steeper the slope, the stronger the blanket needs to be. Straw works for gentle slopes (0–3:1), blends or coir for moderate (3:1–2:1), and coir or synthetic mats are best for steep slopes (2:1 or greater) where soil movement is more aggressive.
- Water Exposure (Wet vs. Dry Conditions): In dry areas, straw helps retain moisture and is cost-effective. Coir blankets for wet, flood-prone, or high-moisture environments last longer and better support seed germination without early breakdown.
- Vegetation Type: Straw blankets are ideal for fast-growing grass seed, while coconut or straw-coconut blends suit slower-germinating native plants or wildflowers. If no vegetation will be planted, choose synthetic mats for long-term erosion control.
- Soil Type: Sandy soils require heavier blankets that won’t blow away, while compacted clay may need additional anchoring to secure the blanket. Consider the soil’s ability to hold stakes or pins when choosing installation methods.
- Project Timeline: For short-term use (under 12 months), straw blankets are sufficient. Coir or blended blankets work for medium-term needs (1–3 years), and synthetic options are best for permanent or multi-year stabilization.
- Environmental Regulations: Biodegradable blankets made from natural fibers are often required in sensitive areas like wetlands or near waterways. Avoid synthetic netting where local regulations restrict non-degradable materials.
The Importance of Professional Installation
Even the best erosion control blanket can fail if installed incorrectly. For optimal performance, the soil surface must first be properly prepared, smoothing out the area and removing any large rocks, debris, or vegetation.
The blanket should be laid parallel to the slope and overlapped by 3 to 6 inches to ensure continuous coverage. Secure the blanket with staples or pins spaced no more than 3 feet apart, with closer spacing on steeper slopes. The top edge of the blanket should always be anchored in a shallow trench to prevent slipping or washout.
Finally, lightly water the area after installation, especially if seeds have been applied underneath the blanket, to help initiate germination and bonding with the soil.
Erosion control blankets are a simple but highly effective way to protect exposed soil, encourage vegetation growth, and stabilize landscapes.
Whether you’re managing a sloped construction site, restoring a natural habitat, or seeding a roadside embankment, ECBs help prevent costly erosion and long-term soil degradation.
But choosing the right blanket is key. Consider your site’s slope, moisture levels, vegetation goals, and project timeline. With proper planning and installation, an erosion control blanket can be your most valuable (and cost-effective) line of defense against erosion.
FAQs
How long do erosion control blankets last?
The lifespan depends on the material. Straw blankets typically last up to 12 months, straw-coconut blends up to 24 months, and coir blankets can last 2–3 years. Synthetic blankets may last indefinitely, especially in areas without vegetation.
Can I install an erosion control blanket myself?
While DIY installation is possible for small, flat areas, professional installation is recommended for steep slopes, large sites, or areas with high erosion risk. Proper soil preparation, overlapping, anchoring, and trenching are critical for effectiveness.
Are erosion control blankets biodegradable?
Many ECBs are made from biodegradable materials like straw, coir, or jute, and decompose naturally as vegetation takes over. However, some synthetic blankets or netting may not break down and are designed for permanent or long-term erosion control.