Rock Scaling

Rock Scaling

Rock scaling is the controlled removal of loose, unstable, or potentially hazardous rock from cliffs, cut slopes, highwalls, and tunnel portals. As one of the most important preventative measures in rockfall mitigation, scaling reduces immediate hazards and prepares slopes for long-term stabilization. Rock Supremacy performs both manual rope-access scaling and mechanical scaling, depending on the size, geometry, and condition of the terrain.

500+
Slopes Scaled
1000 ft
Max Vertical Reach
15+
Years Experience
Overview

Comprehensive Rock Scaling Programs

Scaling is often the first line of defense in rockfall mitigation. It removes loose blocks before they fall unexpectedly, reduces immediate danger to workers, the public, and infrastructure, improves slope geometry for long-term stability, allows accurate mapping of fractures and potential failure planes, and helps ensure rock bolts, dowels, mesh, and shotcrete bond to stable surfaces. Skipping scaling dramatically increases the risk of failure, even when engineered systems are installed correctly.

Common applications include highways and interstates beneath steep slopes, rail lines through mountainous terrain, tunnel portals and cuttings, mining highwalls and access roads, bridge abutments and retaining structures, and steep slopes awaiting mesh, barriers, or shotcrete.

Rock Supremacy is equipped to handle any scaling challenge: rope-access teams trained for extreme terrain, mechanical scaling machines for high-production work, airbag block release systems for controlled dislodgement, helicopter support for remote locations, traffic control and safety planning for high-traffic corridors, and integration with rockfall barriers, bolts, mesh, and shotcrete crews. The combination of rope-access expertise and mechanical capability allows us to work safely and efficiently in any environment.

Rock scaling is required when slopes show loose or fractured rock on the surface, visible cracks, wedges, or block separations, recent rockfall activity or talus accumulation, fire-damaged or heat-fractured rock, freeze-thaw instability in seasonal climates, or overhangs or bulging surfaces. Scaling is also essential before installing bolts, dowels, mesh, barriers, or shotcrete.

Rock Scaling
Equipment

Tools & Technology

We deploy specialized equipment matched to project requirements and site conditions.

Rope access and rigging systems
Hydraulic scaling bars
Air-powered scaling tools
Long-reach excavators
Blast hole drilling equipment
Traffic control systems
Techniques

How We Do It

Proven methods and specialized techniques that deliver reliable, long-lasting results.

Draped Mesh Systems
Draped Mesh Systems icon

Draped Mesh Systems

Draped mesh systems control loose rockfall by capturing debris and guiding it downslope to a safe catchment area. Unlike pinned mesh, draped systems are not rigidly attached to the entire slope—allowing them to manage high volumes of material efficiently.

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High-Energy Rockfall Barriers
High-Energy Rockfall Barriers icon

High-Energy Rockfall Barriers

High-energy barriers provide advanced rockfall protection for slopes where large blocks, high drop heights, or extreme impact forces exceed conventional barrier capacity. These systems absorb up to 10,000 kJ through flexible ring nets, energy-dissipating brakes, and engineered post foundations.

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Pinned Mesh Systems
Pinned Mesh Systems icon

Pinned Mesh Systems

Pinned mesh systems combine steel mesh with rock bolts or dowels to create a secure, reinforced slope surface. This containment system prevents loose blocks from detaching and provides long-term stability in both civil and mining applications.

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Rock Bolting
Rock Bolting icon

Rock Bolting

Rock bolting stabilizes fractured, jointed, or unstable rock masses by anchoring steel bars deep into competent rock. By tying loose blocks back to stable substrate, rock bolts improve the overall strength and cohesion of slopes, cuts, tunnels, and vertical faces.

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Rock Dowels
Rock Dowels icon

Rock Dowels

Rock dowels are passive reinforcement elements used to lock loose or fractured rock blocks into place. Unlike tensioned bolts, dowels rely on full-length grouting to create shear resistance across joints and discontinuities.

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Shotcrete (Dry Mix)
Shotcrete (Dry Mix) icon

Shotcrete (Dry Mix)

Dry-mix shotcrete conveys dry material by air and hydrates at the nozzle, providing a versatile concrete application method ideal for remote sites, repair work, and intermittent applications where portable equipment and adjustable water content are advantages.

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Why Us

Why Choose Rock Supremacy

Expert rope-access crews for steep and technical slopes
Ability to scale in locations most contractors cannot reach
Rapid response to emergency rockfall events
OSHA-compliant safe work practices
Integrated rockfall mitigation systems available
Rock Scaling project
Trusted by
Industry Leaders
Gallery

Our Work in Action

Questions

Rock Scaling FAQ

Project duration varies based on slope height, rock conditions, and access. Small highway cuts may take 1-2 days, while large mine highwalls can require several weeks. We provide detailed schedules during the proposal phase.
Our crews are trained to identify and remove only loose or hazardous rock while preserving stable formations. We use controlled techniques that minimize disturbance to the surrounding rock mass.
Yes, we regularly perform scaling on active corridors using traffic control, catch fences, and scheduled work windows. Our crews are experienced in coordinating with DOTs and mine operations to minimize disruption.
All rope access personnel are trained in industrial rope access techniques. Blasting operations are led by licensed blasters. Every crew member completes site-specific safety training and holds current MSHA/OSHA credentials.
We conduct detailed visual inspections and use sounding techniques to identify loose material. Our geologists assess discontinuities, weathering patterns, and failure potential to prioritize removal areas.
Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

We take pride in building lasting relationships with our clients through exceptional service and results.

"It amazes me how quick these guys adapt to challenging and seemingly overwhelming construction situations in the best, and most creative approach. Very smart, dedicated, hardworking group of brave workers in hazardous work sites. Not the type of work just anyone can do! Keep up the good work!"
A
Anthony Laitta
Google Review
"When it comes to heavy foundation anchoring and stabilization projects, these guys are superb. Although the majority of the company's jobs involve heavy civil work, my project required their skills and specialized equipment for a challenging residential cliffside application. After careful review and critique of our plans, as well as assuring that expectations were fully understood, the work began on time and was completed ahead of schedule with minimal trauma along the way. In all, the job required the installation of ten horizontal deep rock anchors, several vertical piles, and shotcrete encapsulation. I highly recommend Rock Supremacy's services and would definitely use them again."
D
David
Google Review
Residential Slope Stabilization
"We engaged Rock Supremacy for a very challenging cliffside project that involved the stabilization and reinforcement of a retaining wall which ultimately required a total of ten drilled horizontal rock anchors, multiple vertical stabilization pilings and encapsulation with concrete structural reinforcement. Even though my residential project, as large as it was to me, was of a much smaller scale than the company often deals with, it approached the task with all of the consideration and professionalism I could hope for. Notably, they were not hesitant to take on a challenging terrain even with its limited access. From the outset, Corey Muir was very engaged in the project and with finding workable solutions. He was eager to explore alternative options for accomplishing the goals and worked diligently with my engineering consultants to tweak the design for a practical, affordable solution. Throughout the planning process, he maintained excellent communications with myself and our structural engineers. Corey was careful to make sure, prior to our final agreement, that all details were fully understood. The company began the project exactly when anticipated. The on-site crew, David, Nate and Jules proved to be the "A" team. They are very skilled and professional. I found them considerate, easy to interact with, and flexible with regard to change possibilities. The team showed careful concern for my property and all possible avoidance of collateral damage while completing a job that involved some very heavy equipment. When the concrete supplier was unduly delayed, they took it in stride and made the best of the situation. The job was actually finished a little ahead of schedule. Definitely a five star rating for this group, I would be happy to further discuss my experience with anyone contemplating the use of Rock Supremacy's services."
D
David Stellway
Residential Client
Residential Slope Stabilization
Contact

Deploy Us

Ready to discuss your rock scaling needs? Our team can assess your site conditions and provide a custom solution.

Emergency (24/7)

(541) 383-7625

Bidding & Estimates

Info@RockSupremacy.com

Headquarters

Western Division (HQ)
65147 N Hwy 97
Bend, OR 97701
Eastern Division
915 Millennium Ct
Blountville, TN 37617

Licensed in CO, UT, WY, ID, MT, CA, WA, OR, TN, VA

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