Woven vs non-woven landscape fabric?

Woven is stronger and better for under gravel. Non-woven is better for garden beds as it allows more water penetration.

Does landscape fabric really work?

It effectively suppresses weeds for 3-10 years when properly installed with adequate mulch cover.

Landscape FabricGenerating image…

Landscape & Outdoor

Ground Cover

Budget: $0.05-$0.10/sq ft (lightweight non-woven) | Mid-range: $0.15-$0.30/sq ft (commercial woven) | Premium: $0.30-$0.60/sq ft (heavy-duty woven)

Landscape Fabric: Weed Barrier for Garden Beds & Pathways (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Building Materials Team

|Last updated May 25, 2026|Sources & methodology

Landscape fabric is a permeable geotextile material placed under mulch, gravel, or stone to suppress weed growth while allowing water and air to reach the soil. Available in woven and non-woven varieties, it is a staple of low-maintenance landscaping. Proper installation with overlap and securing pins is essential.

Key Features

Blocks weeds while allowing water passage; Woven and non-woven types available; UV-stabilized for longevity; Standard 3 ft and 6 ft widths; Available in rolls up to 300 ft

Specifications

Types: woven polypropylene

non-woven spunbond | Widths: 3 ft

4 ft

6 ft | Lengths: 50 ft

100 ft

300 ft rolls | Weight: 2-4 oz/sq yd | UV rating: 5-20 year

Applications

Under mulch in garden beds; Beneath gravel walkways and patios; Around foundation plantings; Under raised bed bottoms; Erosion control on slopes

Installation Overview

Clear area of existing weeds. Level and smooth soil surface. Roll out fabric with 6-inch overlap at seams. Cut X-shaped openings for existing plants. Secure with landscape staples every 2-3 feet. Cover with 2-3 inches of mulch or gravel.

Pros & Cons

Pros

✓ Effective weed suppression; Allows water penetration; Reduces mulch decomposition; Low maintenance solution

Cons

✗ Can degrade and become visible over time; Weeds can grow on top of mulch above fabric; Makes adding plants harder later; Non-woven types can clog and prevent drainage

Top Brands

DeWitt

ECOgardener

Agfabric

Code Requirements

No building code requirements. May be required under gravel driveways for soil stabilization in some jurisdictions. Check local erosion control requirements for slope installations.

Buying Tips

Use woven fabric under gravel and non-woven under mulch beds; Always overlap seams by at least 6 inches; Secure with landscape staples every 2-3 feet for wind and movement resistance