What is sheeting? Sheeting is bank protection along ponds, ditches and waterways that protects the bank against erosion. The sheeting is installed as a vertical wall in the water and holds the bank in place, prevents soil from washing away and gives the water's edge a clean, finished shape. At Houthandel Jan Sok in Meppel we supply two materials: hardwood (Azobe) and plastic (Prolock Sigma). Both have their own strengths, depending on the project, the budget and how long the sheeting needs to last.
Anyone searching “what is sheeting” usually wants a clear definition first before choosing between wood and plastic. In this guide we explain what sheeting is exactly, which materials make good sheeting, where it is applied and what the pros and cons of hardwood are compared to Prolock plastic. We finish with a maintenance schedule and answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Definition
Sheeting is a structural bank protection placed along waterways to protect the bank against erosion and scouring. When customers ask us “what is sheeting”, we describe it as a vertical wall of planks or panels anchored into the water bed with posts. The wall sits partly in the water and partly above the water line, and absorbs the pressure of the water and the bank soil. Without sheeting, a ditch bank or pond edge would wash away, scour and subside over time. Properly installed sheeting gives the water's edge a fixed shape, keeps the water contained in the ditch or pond and prevents soil from entering the water. Do not confuse sheeting with damwand: damwand is a heavier, water-retaining wall that also holds back groundwater, while sheeting mainly fixes the bank.
Materials
A good sheeting starts with the right material choice. At Houthandel Jan Sok we work with two proven materials: hardwood (Azobe) for those who choose a natural look and maximum strength, and Prolock Sigma plastic for those who want a low-maintenance, long-term solution.
Hardwood (Azobe)
Azobe is a tropical hardwood that is naturally very durable without treatment. According to EN 350, Azobe falls in durability class 1 (very durable, more than 25 years). Azobe resists permanent water contact, which makes it the classic choice for sheeting in ponds, ditches and waterways. In water, a well-installed Azobe sheeting lasts 30+ years. The wood is heavy, hard and available fine-sawn, and is TLV-certified. Those who choose hardwood choose a natural look that greys over the years.
Prolock Sigma plastic
Prolock Sigma is a sheeting system made of recycled plastic. The panels are 50 cm wide and available in heights from 50 to 300 cm, so they fit almost any bank height. Prolock is designed for a long service life of 50-60 years and is fully maintenance-free: the material does not decay, does not rot and needs no treatment. An important installation rule is the post spacing of maximum 1.50 m, so the system can absorb water pressure without deformation. In Meppel we keep around 5000 m² of Prolock in stock, so we can deliver quickly.
Applications
Sheeting is applied wherever a bank needs to be protected, fixed or shaped. The most common applications are:
- Ponds and garden ponds — a clean edge line and no washing-away soil.
- Ditches and trenches — protection against scouring from fluctuating water levels.
- Waterways and canals — longer stretches with consistent bank protection.
- Private and commercial projects — from a single pond edge to complete ditch stretches for contractors and water boards.
For a complete overview, see our sheeting systems collection for both hardwood and Prolock.
Pros and cons
Both materials have their own profile. The choice depends on what you value more: a natural look or maximum maintenance freedom.
Hardwood (Azobe): natural appearance, very high strength, 30+ year service life in water, class 1 durability. Downside: greys over the years and requires periodic maintenance if you want to keep the original colour.
Prolock Sigma plastic: 50-60 years maintenance-free, recycled material, no greying or rot, fast delivery from stock. Downside: an artificial look that does not suit every garden, and a higher purchase price than basic wooden sheeting.
Not sure which to choose? Read our comparison in sheeting wood buying and the step-by-step guide Prolock installation step-by-step plan for a solid basis. For the Prolock system itself see also Prolock sheeting.
Maintenance
Maintenance differs sharply between hardwood and Prolock. Azobe sheeting does not need treatment to remain durable — the class 1 durability applies without impregnation. Untreated outdoor wood greys naturally; this is cosmetic and does not affect the structure. To keep the warm, natural colour, clean the wood periodically and optionally oil it. Prolock Sigma is fully maintenance-free: rinsing with water is enough. Inspect the posts and connections of both materials once a year, check that the edge line stays straight and top up soil behind the sheeting where needed.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is sheeting?
Sheeting is bank protection along ponds, ditches and waterways. It is a vertical wall of hardwood or plastic that protects the bank against erosion and gives the water's edge a fixed shape.
How long does sheeting last?
An Azobe hardwood sheeting lasts 30+ years in permanent water contact. Prolock Sigma plastic has a service life of 50-60 years and is maintenance-free.
Which is better: hardwood or Prolock plastic?
That depends on your priorities. Hardwood (Azobe) gives a natural look and 30+ years of service life. Prolock Sigma is maintenance-free and lasts 50-60 years. Both are suitable for permanent water contact.
What post spacing applies to Prolock sheeting?
For Prolock Sigma a maximum post spacing of 1.50 m applies. This lets the system absorb water pressure without deformation.