When working near or within water bodies, protecting the surrounding aquatic environment from sediment disturbance is a priority. Turbidity curtains—also known as silt curtains, silt barriers, or floating turbidity barriers—play a crucial role in containing suspended particles and preventing environmental damage during construction, dredging, or shoreline work.
What Is a Turbidity Curtain?
A turbidity curtain is a floating barrier designed to contain and control the dispersion of suspended sediment (turbidity) in water caused by construction or industrial activities. These curtains consist of a floating boom on top, a skirt (usually made of geotextile fabric) that hangs down into the water, and ballast weights at the bottom to keep the skirt vertical.
By forming a temporary containment zone, turbidity curtains help maintain water quality, protect marine ecosystems, and comply with environmental regulations.
Types of Turbidity Curtains Sold by GEI Works
At GEI Works, we offer turbidity curtains to match different project demands and site conditions. Our product line includes:
1. Type 1 – DOT Turbidity Curtain
- For calm water conditions such as ponds, lakes, canals, or roadside ditches.
- Ideal for short-term projects with minimal flow and boat traffic.
- Complies with many Department of Transportation (DOT) specifications.
2. Type 2 – Medium-Duty Turbidity Curtain
- Suitable for moving water conditions like rivers or tidal zones.
- Designed to withstand moderate currents and wind exposure.
- Frequently used in bridge construction, marina projects, or inlets.
3. Type 3 – Heavy-Duty Turbidity Curtain
- Built for fast-moving or open water environments, including offshore or large river projects.
- Includes robust flotation and reinforced skirts for high-performance durability.
- Common in dredging operations, harbor construction, and high-flow containment.
Permeable vs. Impermeable Curtains: What’s the Difference?
One of the key design choices in turbidity curtains is whether they are permeable or impermeable:
➤ Permeable Turbidity Curtains
- Made from filter fabric or mesh that allows water to pass through while trapping sediment.
- Helps reduce water pressure buildup behind the curtain in high-flow conditions.
- Recommended when flow control is needed but filtration is a priority.
➤ Impermeable Turbidity Curtains
- Constructed from vinyl or PVC materials that prevent any water from passing through.
- Creates a complete containment barrier, useful in sensitive ecosystems or when sediment containment must be total.
- Ideal for still water projects where filtration is not necessary.
Where Are Turbidity Curtains Used?
Turbidity curtains are essential tools in various marine and inland water projects. Common use cases include:
- Bridge and pier construction
- Dredging and excavation
- Shoreline restoration and stabilization
- Dam maintenance
- Port or dock construction
- Wetland protection projects
- Stormwater runoff containment
Their use ensures that sediment-laden water doesn’t travel far from the source, protecting aquatic life, maintaining navigability, and keeping projects in regulatory compliance.
Other Names for Turbidity Curtains
Depending on regional terminology or project type, turbidity curtains may also be called:
- Silt Curtains
- Silt Barriers
- Sediment Curtains
- Floating Silt Fences
- Silt Containment Booms
These names all refer to the same essential tool, though material and design may vary.
Why Choose GEI Works for Turbidity Curtains?
GEI Works provides customizable, compliant, and field-tested turbidity curtain solutions made in the USA. With fast lead times and technical support, we help you choose the right product for your project’s site conditions and compliance requirements. Whether you’re working on a quiet pond or facing open-water challenges, we have a curtain that meets your needs.
Need help selecting the right turbidity curtain?
Contact our team at 772-646-0597 for a consultation tailored to your project specifications.
