how much landscape fabric do i need
Landscape fabric is a material that is used to suppress weeds and conserve moisture in gardens. It is usually made of plastic or natural fibers and comes in rolls or sheets. Landscape fabric can be useful for certain types of plants and gardens, but it also has some disadvantages, such as being expensive, non-biodegradable, and potentially harmful to the soil and plant health. Therefore, it is important to use landscape fabric properly and carefully, and to estimate the amount of landscape fabric you need for your project. Here are some tips for estimating how much landscape fabric you will need:
- Measure the area: The first step is to measure the length and width of the area where you plan to use the landscape fabric. You can use a tape measure, a ruler, or a string to measure the area. For irregularly shaped areas, you can break it down into smaller sections and measure each section separately. You should also add at least 12-18 inches extra on all sides for burying the edges of the fabric.
- Calculate the square footage: The next step is to calculate the square footage of the area or each section. You can do this by multiplying the length by the width of the area or section. For example, if the area is 10 feet long and 8 feet wide, the square footage is 10 x 8 = 80 square feet. If you have multiple sections, calculate the square footage for each section separately and then add them together to get the total square footage for the entire area.
- Consider overlapping and seams: The third step is to consider the overlapping and seams of the landscape fabric. It’s typically recommended to overlap the landscape fabric by a few inches to ensure there are no gaps where weeds can penetrate. Depending on the specific recommendations or guidelines of the manufacturer, you can add an additional percentage for overlapping. For example, if the recommendation is a 10% overlap, you would multiply the total square footage by 1.1 to account for the overlap. If you need to use multiple pieces of landscape fabric and will need to join them together, you should also consider the additional square footage required for overlapping and securing the seams. You should plan for 6-12 inches of extra fabric per seam.
- Account for cutting and waste: The fourth step is to account for cutting and waste of the landscape fabric. You may need to cut the landscape fabric to fit the shape of the area or to create holes for planting. You should estimate 10% additional material to allow for cutting irregular shapes or holes for planting. You should also account for any cutting or installation errors that may result in waste. It’s always a good idea to purchase slightly more than you think you’ll need to avoid running out of fabric during the project.
- Choose the grade/weight of fabric: The final step is to choose the grade/weight of fabric that suits your needs and preferences. The grade/weight of fabric refers to the thickness and durability of the material. Heavier/stronger options require more material per square foot, but they also last longer and provide better weed control. Lighter/weaker options require less material per square foot, but they also degrade faster and provide less weed control. You should choose the grade/weight of fabric based on the type of plants, the level of weed infestation, and the expected lifespan of the project.
By following these tips, you can estimate the amount of landscape fabric you need for your project. You can also check the minimum order sizes with manufacturers or home improvement stores, as rolls often come in 50-150 square feet increments. You can also consider pre-cut squares or kits instead of full rolls for small jobs less than 50 square feet. Don’t forget to purchase landscape fabric staples and/or stakes to secure the fabric once installed. If you’re unsure, it’s recommended to consult with a professional or the manufacturer of the landscape fabric for specific guidance based on your project’s requirements.
