Can Landscape Fabric Help with Erosion Control?

A few years ago, our neighbors built a new home on their property and were concerned about potential erosion on their hillside due to heavy winter rains during construction. They decided to use landscape fabric to mitigate erosion but questioned whether it was the best solution for their needs.

How Does Landscape Fabric Help Prevent Erosion?

Landscape fabric, also known as erosion control fabric, stabilizes soil and provides a protective layer against erosion. It is typically laid over slopes or hillside areas, with soil or aggregate placed on top. This setup prevents water from washing away the soil, creating a stable environment for vegetation to grow. Landscape fabric is most effective on gradual slopes.

When to Use Landscape Fabric for Erosion Control

Landscape fabric is ideal for slopes with a grade of 4:1 or less (where the slope rises 1 foot for every 4 feet of distance). It works well when buried under at least 4 inches of soil. For steeper slopes, other erosion control methods like Erosion Control Blankets or Turf Reinforcement Mats may be more suitable.

Choosing the Right Type of Landscape Fabric

There are two primary types of geotextiles used for landscaping: woven fabric and nonwoven fabric. Each type serves different purposes:

• Nonwoven Fabric: Suitable for hillside stabilization, French drains, rip rap, and pond construction.
• Woven Fabric: Used for high-strength applications like driveway stabilization, roads, and under patios.

Considerations Based on Slope

The effectiveness of landscape fabric varies with the slope gradient. Steeper slopes may require additional erosion control measures, as vegetation may struggle to establish roots effectively.

Landscape fabric plays a crucial role in erosion control by stabilizing soil and facilitating vegetation growth. Understanding the slope and specific needs of your landscape will help determine whether landscape fabric or alternative solutions are more appropriate.