Why You Would Use a Filter Sock

Do you need to prevent erosion from disturbing your property? Or contain excess water and harmful debris? Filter socks are the solution. They stem and redirect the flow of water, blocking erosion and preventing unwanted material from entering surrounding areas.

What Is the Purpose of a Compost Filter Sock?

Compost filter socks, or silt socks, are lengthy, polyester or polypropylene tubular mesh sleeves filled with compost or other biodegradable materials that filter water flow, preventing the spread of sediments, debris, bacteria, metals, and other harmful chemicals. They protect freshly installed seed plots, construction sites, and everything in between.

There are many varieties of filter socks. They come in different lengths and diameters, usually 8 to 24 inches, and a few different materials. Some filter socks have straw wattles or other materials compared to “compost socks,” but they all serve the same purpose. If you’re doing any projects involving water runoff, you need to know how to use a filter sock.

Silt fences are another popular alternative to filter socks. However, ditches must be dug with an excavator, making the process more challenging. Also, digging a trench isn’t an option if you need to dam a parking lot or sidewalk. Workers and landscapers use filter socks for their quick application and functional properties.

Let’s discuss filter socks, erosion control, and everything in between.

Common Uses of Filter Socks

Filter socks are widely-used for a reason. They have a variety of uses and are an efficient, more straightforward option than other erosion and debris products. Filter socks are essential for stormwater management, maintaining a controlled rate for excess water. They also prevent erosion and prevent harmful materials from leaving the designated areas.

Some common uses of filter socks include:

Check Dams for Ditches and Swales

Dams, ditches, and swales near highways and construction projects are often subject to erosion. Knowing how to use a filter sock eases and redirects the flow of excess water, keeping the workers and environment safe for construction.

Storm Drain Protection

Certain materials and debris shouldn’t get washed down storm drains and sewer systems. Workers can put filter socks around drains to filter out harmful waste and chemicals, allowing water to pass through.

Sediment Control

Heavy rains and excess water disrupt landscapes and properties, sending mulch, dirt, and sediment away from where they should be. Filter socks prevent sedimentation and erosion, keeping sediment and mulch in place.

Protect Bodies of Water and Ecosystems

Harmful chemicals, metals, and debris can impact local ecosystems and bodies of water. Filter socks keep these materials out of surrounding areas, preventing damage, fines, and other implications.

Fields and Industries That Know How To Use Filter Socks

Many industries use filter socks during operations and projects for different, essential reasons. Here are some of the common fields and industries that use filter socks.

Landscaping

Knowing how to use a filter sock is the best way to maintain perimeter control. Filter socks keep sediment, mulch, and other debris from escaping onto other parts of your property. Erosion control socks can be used around gardens, landscaping patches, and driveways, preventing sedimentation and keeping materials where they belong.

Storm water and heavy precipitation cause water to flow where it shouldn’t, carrying away soil, mulch, and debris. Sedimentation can ruin landscapes and can create expense restoration projects. Filter socks are the perfect erosion control product to prevent damage from happening.

Construction Sites

Construction sites have materials and debris that shouldn’t come into contact with surrounding areas. Cement dust, chemicals, metals, and hardware can get washed away from the job site after heavy rain or onsite water operations. Hazardous materials can also get washed down drainage and sewer systems, causing severe damage. Filter socks ensure that harmful materials don’t contaminate the surroundings of construction sites.

Varsity Inc. has over 40 years of erosion control experience. We’ve effectively utilized filter socks on various projects across Pennsylvania and the surrounding areas.

We offer commercial landscaping, erosion control, site maintenance, snow removal, and other landscaping services to keep your property looking excellent.

Varsity Inc. offers a free consultation to assess your landscaping and commercial needs. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity. Contact us today.

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filter sock around exposed dirt at a construction site_

Agriculture

Farming and agriculture producers use fertilizers, pesticides, and other chemicals to preserve their crops and produce. However, some substances aren’t allowed to leak into the surrounding wildlife and water systems, leading to fines and disciplinary actions. Filter socks are excellent perimeter controls, trapping harmful chemicals from escaping a plot while letting water flow freely.

Machinery and Spills

Commercial facilities and factories often contain expensive machinery and assorted chemicals.
Filter socks can surround machinery bases prone to leaks, spills, or fluids operating, protecting the surrounding area. Workers can’t mop up certain chemicals and liquids with soap and water. Filter socks can surround accidental spills, preventing them from spreading while the sock absorbs and contains harmful or volatile materials.

Varsity Inc. Provides Professional Filter Sock Installation

You need to be confident when you choose a company to work on your commercial landscaping or erosion control project. That confidence is a guarantee when you hire Varsity Inc.

Varsity Inc. combines years of commercial landscaping, erosion control, site maintenance, and snow removal experience with decades of practical knowledge to provide the exact services you require. We tackle every project with efficiency, professionalism, and dedication, from complex erosion control projects and simple real estate landscaping. We can do it all.

We value training and hard work, and we will do what it takes to earn your business and your trust. We know how to use a filter sock to professionally protect your property, worksite, or landscaping facilities.

Varsity Inc. are your erosion control pros, and the last commercial landscaping company you will ever need. Contact us today.