Lava Rock vs Rip Rap

Lava Rock

Lava rock is a lightweight, porous volcanic stone commonly used in landscaping. Its rough texture helps retain moisture while allowing airflow to plant roots.

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.

Lava Rock

• ✓ Landscaping
• ✓ Garden beds
• ✓ Decorative ground cover

Rip Rap

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

Lava Rock

• + Very lightweight
• + Excellent moisture retention
• + Decorative appearance

• − Breaks down over time
• − Sharp edges
• − Can scatter easily

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

Lava Rock

Typically 3/4"–1.5" sizes. Red or black.

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.