Bank Run Gravel vs Rip Rap

Bank Run Gravel

Bank run gravel is a naturally occurring mix of sand, gravel, and small stones excavated directly from pits or riverbanks. Unlike crusher run, it is not mechanically crushed or screened, resulting in inconsistent sizing.

Rip Rap

Large, heavy, angular stones ranging from 6 to 24+ inches used primarily for erosion control. Rip rap protects shorelines, stream banks, bridge abutments, and steep slopes from water erosion. The heavy weight and interlocking shape resist displacement by flowing water and wave action.

Bank Run Gravel

• ✓ Rural driveways
• ✓ Base fill
• ✓ Backfill
• ✓ Construction fill

Rip Rap

• ✓ Shoreline protection
• ✓ Stream bank stabilization
• ✓ Bridge abutments
• ✓ Steep slope stabilization
• ✓ Culvert outlets
• ✓ Retaining wall faces

Bank Run Gravel

• + Low cost
• + Minimal processing
• + Good general fill material

• − Inconsistent size
• − Poor compaction compared to crusher run
• − Can contain excess sand

Rip Rap

• + Extremely effective at preventing water erosion
• + Heavy weight resists displacement by water
• + Long-lasting — lasts decades with no maintenance
• + Angular shape interlocks for stability
• + Natural appearance blends with waterside environments

• − Very heavy — requires heavy equipment to place
• − Expensive for large projects
• − Not suitable for foot traffic
• − Requires engineering design for major installations
• − Limited decorative appeal

Bank Run Gravel

Unscreened blend ranging from sand up to 2" stones. Color varies by region.

Rip Rap

Large angular stones typically 6-24 inches in diameter, though some applications use stones up to 36 inches or larger. Weight ranges from 25 to 500+ pounds per stone. Colors vary by source quarry — typically gray, blue-gray, tan, or brown. Sold by the ton rather than by the yard.