When do I need a silt fence?
What is a silt fence?
Silt fences are temporary barriers typically made up of wood, PVC, or metal posts and some sort of permeable fabric. The original purpose of a silt fence is to retain an area of soil on a piece of land. They help protect the surrounding infrastructure by keeping the soil in its place. So, instead of soil being washed off or eroded, the soil is kept and maintained in a controlled location.
When does a construction site need a silt fence?
They are frequently used on construction sites when workers are attempting to keep soil away from bodies of water, roads, or other areas where the soil would be unwanted. It is much easier to set up and purchase a silt fence than pay for damages to roads, storm drains, and aquatic life, or build more permanent barriers.
When does a homeowner need a silt fence?
A homeowner needs a silt fence whenever there is a risk of erosion, water contamination, or when required by law.
How much does a silt fence cost?
When doing any kind of building or construction, the cost of the silt fence will be minimal compared to all other expenses. And skipping a silt fence will almost always cost more in the long run due to damages or fines you may inherit. If you’re willing to do some of the assembly yourself, the parts for silt fences can cost around $150 for a 50-foot fence. If you want something prebuilt or need a longer fence, the cost can go into the $1,000 to $2,000 range for the typical homeowner.
How to set up a silt fence?
Only those with a good understanding of landscaping, water run-off, and erosion should set up their own silt fence. Otherwise, you should invest in the help of a professional.
If you’re ready to try it on your own, be sure to visit the EPA website for in-depth, helpful tips for setting up your silt fence. Then, follow the instructions below.
- Lay out the path for your fence on the ground. Try to think about rainwater run-off and other possible areas of erosion. You don’t want some areas of the fence to be more strained than others, so you may have to stagger your fence posts a bit to ensure they can handle the pressure that might be pushed against them.
- Now, you’ll need to dig a trench at least 4 four inches deep and 4 inches wide. Bury the bottom 8 inches of the fabric into the trench. Your fence fabric should have a line indicating how deep it should be buried.
- Insert the fence stakes on the downhill side of the trench and your fabric on the uphill side.
- Fill in the dirt and bury the bottom 8 inches of your fabric.
- Pound the stakes into the ground with a maul. Stakes should be set approximately 8 feet apart from each other.
- Attach the stakes to the fabric with staples, tie wraps, or wire fasteners.
- Backfill the trench and make sure the fabric is appropriately buried. You may need to tamp the soil around the fabric to ensure it is properly secure.
- Keep the fence maintained, especially after any wet or rainy weather. Before removing the fence, ensure the ground is stable and no movement or erosion occurs.
Have a question? Stop in and talk to one of our construction supplier experts. We can help you silt fences, rebar, concrete, water pumps and many more construction items. We have PPE in stock for all your employees and the best equipment selection in the area. Chenango Supply is conveniently located off interstate 75 in Punta Gorda.