Natural shoreline protection using Florida limestone for erosion control
A vertical seawall isn’t always the right solution. In many cases, rock revetments (also known as rip rap) offers a more effective, natural-looking, and environmentally friendly way to stabilize your shoreline.
At Florida Shoreline and Foundation, we install custom rip rap systems that reduce erosion, absorb wave energy, and help restore the shoreline’s natural edge, whether you're on a canal, bayfront, riverbank, or lake.
Why Choose Rip Rap for Shoreline Restoration
Rip rap involves placing carefully selected rock along a shoreline to create a strong, erosion-resistant barrier. It’s especially effective for properties exposed to wave action, boat wake, or runoff.
We typically use Florida limestone ranging in size from 4 inches to 4 feet, depending on the project’s needs. When properly installed, rip rap offers:
- Fast shoreline stabilization with minimal disruption
- Natural integration with vegetation and habitat
- Long-term performance with low maintenance
- Better drainage than concrete or vertical barriers
- Cost-effective installation for many property types
More Than Just Stacking Rocks
Successful rip rap shoreline restoration requires more than just placing boulders on a bank. We design and build every revetment for performance and longevity, considering key technical elements such as:
- Toe trenches to prevent slippage and undercutting
- Filter fabric layers to stabilize soil behind the rock
- Rock size and placement based on slope, exposure, and permit requirements
Our team evaluates every site to determine the ideal rock size, placement pattern, and installation method, ensuring performance, safety, and long-term durability.
Where Rip Rap Works Best
We’ve installed rock revetments for clients throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties, some locations are:
- Sarasota Bay
- The Manatee River
- Residential canals in Siesta Key and Longboat Key
- Lakefront communities in Venice, Osprey, and Nokomis
- HOA properties and municipal waterway access points






Consult with Florida Shoreline for the Right Solution
Whether you're comparing options or know you need erosion control fast, we can help. We’ll meet with you, assess your shoreline, and walk you through:
- Rock size and type
- Equipment needs and site access
- Permitting considerations
- Budget-friendly installation timelines
Rip rap may be the quickest and most natural way to protect your shoreline, and we’ll help you get it done right.
Call us at 941.927.1410 or email us at info@shorelineandfoundation.com
