The advantages of non-woven groundcover
Non-woven ground is made from 100% polypropylene and fibers, and it is used as a weed control cover or as a stabilisation cover underneath materials like gravel, wood chips, tiles or decking. In the Netherlands, we still often use the classic, woven groundcover that most people are familiar with for these applications.
However, we are noticing that non-woven groundcover is becoming increasingly popular and is often replacing woven groundcover. This is primarily due to the many advantages that non-woven groundcover offers. So, what makes non-woven groundcover so desirable?
Water and air permeability
Non-woven groundcover allows more air and water to pass through than woven groundcover. This also means that it lets nutrients through, which is a significant advantage because it helps maintain the health of the soil life underneath the cover. In contrast, woven groundcover tends to seal off the soil beneath it, weakening it when removed.
Another benefit of its excellent water permeability is that water can quickly drain away, even during heavy rainfall. Puddles do not form, which is very important given the frequent waterlogging problems we face today.
It doesn’t fray
Another reason non-woven groundcover is often preferred over woven groundcover is that it doesn’t fray. Woven groundcover, as the name suggests, is made from woven (polypropylene) tapes. With the slightest friction, this type of cover tends to fray. Non-woven groundcover is made from pressed fibers, and even with heavy friction, it remains intact. It doesn’t leave any remnants in the ground, making it better for the environment.
Because it doesn’t fray and isn’t woven, it can be easily cut to the desired size with scissors or a knife. This is especially useful for direct use in gardens or projects requiring custom sizing!
Provides more stability
Non-woven groundcover provides more stability to the soil than woven fabric. This is because non-woven groundcover has a dense network of fibers that offer more flexibility and pressure distribution. It better absorbs the movement of the soil and stabilises it more effectively. Woven groundcover usually has more space between the threads, making it less effective at distributing pressure and stabilizing the soil.
Weed removal is easier
Weed removal is easier with non-woven ground fabric because its dense and random fiber structure makes it difficult for weed roots to anchor into the soil or on the cover. Woven groundcover has regularly intertwined tapes, creating larger openings. This allows weed roots to anchor and grow through. Non-woven groundcover offers less space for roots to settle, making weeds easier to dislodge and remove.
Highly durable, strong and flexible
The fibers in non-woven fabric are randomly placed and tightly packed, making it highly durable, strong, and flexible. This allows it to withstand heavy loads, such as the pressure from vehicles or machines, without tearing.
Recyclable
Our non-woven groundcover is made from polypropylene, which is highly recyclable. It is not treated with harmful chemicals, meaning it can be processed into new products after use, contributing to sustainability.
Superior quality
In short, non-woven groundcover has numerous advantages and outperforms woven groundcover in several areas. It has properties that make it more effective at doing its job, better for the soil and better for the environment. The efficiency benefits also make non-woven groundcover a more cost-effective solution when considering long-term advantages.
Would you like more information about our non-woven groundcover? We are happy to help! Contact us.
