Can I Use Landscape Fabric for Erosion Control?

Erosion Control Landscape Fabric

A couple of years ago, our neighbors built a new home on their property and were concerned that their hillside would erode during the heavy winter rains throughout construction. They decided to lay down landscape fabric to help mitigate erosion but questioned whether it was the best solution for preventing erosion.

Geotextile landscape fabric can indeed help reduce soil erosion. It is most effective when buried under 4 inches of soil and used on slopes with a 4:1 grade or less. A 4:1 slope means 1 foot of elevation for every 4 feet of distance. For steeper slopes, other products like erosion control blankets or turf reinforcement mats are more suitable.

This article discusses where erosion control fabric is most effective for preventing erosion when it is not appropriate, and what other materials should be considered for various scenarios.

How Does Landscape Fabric Help Prevent Erosion?

Landscape fabric sometimes referred to as erosion control fabric, helps stabilize soil and provides a protective layer against erosion. The fabric is laid over the slope or hillside, and soil or aggregate is placed on top.

Sandwiching the fabric between layers of soil helps prevent water from easily washing away the slope and creates a secure place for grass and vegetation to grow. Erosion fabric is best suited for applications on gradual slopes.

Erosion Control Landscape Fabric on a Roadside
A roadside is covered with fabric to help prevent erosion.

landscape fabric helps prevent erosion by stabilizing the hillside against rain erosion and providing time and space for grasses and vegetation to grow. The fabric plays a supporting role and can be extremely helpful and easy to implement in developing a landscape that will withstand erosion.

The steeper the hillside, the more likely other erosion control solutions will be required. In general, the steeper the slope, the harder it is for grasses and vegetation to fill in and take root.

Ground cover and grasses are important in preventing erosion, as the root networks of these plants stabilize the soil and help prevent water from causing further damage.

What Is the Best Type of Landscape Fabric for Erosion Control?

There are two primary geotextiles used for landscaping: woven fabric and nonwoven fabric. Each is designed for different applications. Generally, woven geotextile fabric is used where strength is needed and drainage (permeability) is less critical, such as in driveway matting.

Common Nonwoven Fabric Applications:

• Hillside stabilization and erosion control
• French drains and drainage fields
• Rip rap, shorelines, retaining walls
• Pond and water feature construction

Landscape Fabric vs. Slope of the Hillside

Understanding your slope is crucial in determining whether to use erosion control fabric or another solution. For slopes greater than a 4:1 grade, other erosion solutions like erosion control blankets (ECBs) or turf reinforcement mats (TRMs) are more appropriate.

Erosion Control Product Options

Here are three factors to consider when determining if other erosion control solutions are needed:

• Slope: Is the slope greater than 4:1?
• Amount of Rainfall: Is the area known for heavy rain or flash flooding?
• Intended Project Duration: Is the solution temporary or permanent? Depending on the project needs, you can consider biodegradable options or synthetic/permanent options as