The use of geotextiles for garden paths in the country, what is it for and how to choose
Any owner of a garden plot wants it to be comfortable and beautiful. Flower beds and paths on the site play an important role. It is possible to use different materials to make the garden attractive. Country paths should be not only beautiful, but also functional, which is why builders recommend using geotextiles for garden paths. There are several types of materials, each with specific characteristics.
Advantages and disadvantages of using geotextile
Geotextile is a material similar to fabric, but with different structures. It should not be confused with a geogrid, the products differ in shape and composition, although the purpose is the same. The product has many positive qualities:
- little weight;
- compact size;
- reasonable price;
- many kinds;
- the ability to pass air;
- simple styling;
- easy transportation;
- no harmful effects on the soil;
- resistance to damage.
Another advantage of the geotextile (spunbond) is that it does not allow the germination of weeds. Therefore, the tracks remain in perfect condition at all times.
However, this coverage also has negative sides:
- reduced resistance to ultraviolet radiation;
- increased cost of some types.
Geotextiles have more positive than negative sides, which is why the material is popular and used quite often.
Varieties of geomaterials
There are several types of geotextiles. Each is characterized by the presence of specific signs and properties.
Polyester based
Made from fine polyester fibers. The material is environmentally friendly. However, there is a serious drawback - fragility. Unfortunately, such a product is subject to rapid destruction under the influence of the environment, and does not tolerate the action of acids and alkalis.
Polypropylene based
Such geotextiles have increased resistance to fungal bacteria, the fabric is durable, it can be used for a long time. Has an increased filtration coefficient.
Combined
The composition of the combined material contains recyclable materials, as a result, the product has a reduced cost. However, in terms of quality, such a fabric is inferior to polyester and polypropylene types.
The composition often includes natural additives prone to rotting, which significantly reduce the time of use of this type of geotextile.
Types by type of production
Geotextiles also differ in the type of production.
The choice of material depends on the purpose of use.
Needle
Such textiles are obtained by specific bonding of microscopic fibers of polypropylene and polyester. The material is very durable, permeable to moisture and not prone to clogging the floor.
Doronite
Such material has increased strength and elastic structure; textiles can be used as a reinforcing substrate.
Doronite has good filtration properties, which is why the material is also often used.
Thermosetting
Geotextiles of this type are made under the influence of high temperatures, therefore they have increased strength. However, the material only allows moisture in the transverse direction, so the filtration capacity is not very high.
Thermal treatment
During production, the ingredients are simultaneously pressed and melted, so that the material is obtained with increased density. Heat-treated geotextiles are used for waterproofing.
Building
The material passes water only from the inside, therefore it is used for waterproofing.
Knit with topstitching
The fiber of such material is connected by strong threads. Textiles are well permeable to water, but susceptible to mechanical damage.
How to apply correctly
In order to achieve a good result that will not disappoint, you need to use geotextiles correctly.
The laying of the canvas is mandatory in the trenches of the garden paths. The material will allow you to keep tiles, crushed stone, stones in one position. The work is carried out in several stages:
- First, you need to mark out a place for the future track, then dig a small trench up to 40 centimeters deep.
- A layer of sand is laid on the bottom, leveled. Geotextiles are laid on top, and the edges should go a few (5-10) centimeters on the slopes of the groove.
- If there are joints, the overlap is at least 15 centimeters. The fabric is fixed with a needle or a stapler.
- Small crushed stones are poured, leveled and covered with another layer of fabric, on which sand is again poured up to 10 centimeters high.
- After all the actions, stones, crushed stone are poured or a slab is laid.
If the path is made of gravel or crushed stone, then it is permissible to lay only one layer of material.
How to choose the right one
The choice of geotextile depends on the use for which it is necessary. It is recommended to pay attention to the characteristics of the material.
Geogrid density
Density affects material flow. The recommended figure is 150 to 300 g/m³. With a lower coefficient, textiles are more susceptible to damage and deteriorate quickly. Pores should not be smaller than 175 microns.
Filtration coefficient
Indicator indicating the ability to pass water. For draining tissue, a coefficient of 100 to 300 m/day is considered normal. It will be possible to choose the fabric more accurately if you know at what level the groundwater passes, how much precipitation falls approximately and how much moisture permeates the ground. For very humid areas, it is recommended to use a cloth with a high filtration coefficient.
Force level
The stronger the material, the longer it will last. Textiles with an indicator of at least 1.9-3 kN / m are considered optimal. When choosing, it is recommended to take into account the load on the ground, its possible displacement, the depth of the drainage system. The most commonly used textiles with a resistance index of 500 N. This is more than enough to obtain good traces. If large crushed stones are used, it is recommended to choose a stronger material.All the information is indicated on the packages.
Financial component
The cost of geotextiles depends on the manufacturer. Russian material is often several times cheaper than imported material, but not inferior to it either in quality or in properties. It is recommended to take into account that the fabric with higher values will be more expensive.
App Features
It is recommended to remember that depending on the type of textile chosen, there are certain peculiarities of its laying. Therefore, before starting work, it is recommended to research all the information and prepare carefully.
Other Landscaping Uses
Geotextile is a common material that is often used in the country. However, the use of such fabrics is not only possible for the arrangement of paths and paths.
Textiles can be used for drainage, floor cleaning. When you lay fabric under a layer of grass, you can get the following results:
- The floor will not be washed.
- The hills will remain if necessary.
- Useful substances remain in the soil.
- The number of weeds will decrease significantly, most of them will stop growing.
- Water drainage is provided where required.
Geotextiles are used for the design.
If desired, it can be used to create flower beds. However, recently the material has often been used in the arrangement of small reservoirs - ponds, pools, fountains. The fabric helps protect the waterproofing membrane against mechanical damage. Textiles are laid on the bottom and walls of the prepared pit, then sand or stones are added.
Often the product is used to create beds with fertile soil. This cloth will help separate the good soil from the lesser quality soil and prevent them from mixing.
Geotextiles in flower beds will help preserve soil moisture and prevent weed growth. In winter, the fabric is used to protect shrubs and trees from frost. The material is excellent for reinforcing the soil layer on slopes and hills.
In suburban areas there is a constant use of geotextiles. Proper style and use will create beautiful and neat paths and beds. The choice of material depends on the preferences of the buyer and the purpose of use.