When it comes to building durable and low-maintenance walkways, patios, and garden paths, what lies beneath is just as important as what’s on the surface. Whether you’re working with gravel, pavers, flagstone, or stepping stones, landscape fabric can play a key role in keeping your hardscape looking clean and stable over time.

But is it always necessary? How should it be installed, and what are the pros and cons?

In this post, we’ll explore how and why to use landscape fabric under walkways, patios, and paths, as well as best practices to ensure long-term success.

Why Use Landscape Fabric Under Hardscapes?

Landscape fabric — often called weed barrier — is typically made of woven or non-woven polypropylene or polyester. It’s permeable, allowing water to drain through while blocking weed growth.

When used under walkways, patios, or paths, landscape fabric offers several benefits:

1. Weed Suppression

The most obvious reason to use landscape fabric is to minimize weeds that try to grow up through gravel or cracks in pavers. This can drastically reduce maintenance and improve appearance.

2. Base Layer Stability

Fabric helps separate soil from your base material (like gravel or sand), preventing the base from sinking into the soil and maintaining a flat, even surface.

3. Improved Drainage

Quality fabric allows water to flow through while preventing soil erosion below the base layer — essential for hardscape longevity.

4. Reduced Settling

Over time, without a barrier, your gravel or sand can shift downward and cause unevenness. Fabric adds a layer of support that helps maintain the integrity of your project.

When and Where to Use Landscape Fabric

Using landscape fabric isn’t always necessary — and in some cases, it’s not recommended. Here’s when to use it and when to skip it:

Best Uses:

• Gravel paths or driveways: Fabric is very effective under gravel or crushed stone to prevent sinking and weed growth.
• Stepping stone paths: A fabric layer can help keep individual stones level and free from weeds.
• Loose-fill walkways: For bark, mulch, decomposed granite, or pea gravel, fabric adds stability.

Use with Caution or Avoid:

• Under paver patios: Most pros prefer using compacted gravel and sand without fabric. Fabric can create a slippery layer that causes shifting.
• Clay-heavy soils: In poorly draining areas, fabric can trap water unless installed with proper drainage layers.

How to Install Landscape Fabric Under Paths and Patios

Proper installation is key. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get it right:

1. Prepare the Site

• Mark the area with stakes and string or spray paint.
• Remove all sod, roots, and debris.
• Excavate 4–8 inches, depending on your desired base depth.

2. Level and Compact the Subgrade

• Smooth out the excavated area.
• Compact the soil with a hand tamper or plate compactor to prevent settling later.

3. Lay the Landscape Fabric

• Roll out the fabric to cover the entire area.
• Overlap seams by at least 6 inches.
• Cut fabric to fit curves or corners.
• Use landscape staples or pins every 12–18 inches to secure it, especially around the edges and seams.

4. Add the Base Material

• For gravel or paver projects, lay 3–6 inches of compacted crushed stone or gravel over the fabric.
• For stepping stones, you can add a thin layer of sand or gravel to help level each stone.
• Compact the base with a tamper or plate compactor.

5. Install Your Surface Material

• Lay pavers, gravel, stepping stones, or other hardscape materials.
• Fill gaps with sand or fine gravel as needed.

6. Edge and Mulch (if applicable)

• Use metal, plastic, or stone edging to hold materials in place.
• For natural paths, consider a thin layer of mulch or decorative gravel for aesthetics and added weed control.

Pros and Cons of Using Landscape Fabric Under Hardscapes

Pros

• Reduces weed growth.
• Keeps base material from mixing with soil.
• Improves drainage and soil separation.
• Helps prevent shifting and erosion.

Cons

• Can cause drainage issues in poorly draining soils if not installed correctly.
• May shift or tear if not pinned securely.
• Some professionals argue that compacted base materials alone (without fabric) perform better under pavers.
• Once installed, it’s hard to repair or remove.

Pro Tips for Long-Lasting Results

• Always use professional-grade, woven fabric designed for hardscapes. Avoid flimsy or non-woven “weed barrier” meant for flower beds.
• Edge your paths and patios well to prevent fabric from lifting or fraying.
• Inspect annually for any settling or visible fabric, and top off gravel or mulch if needed.
• Avoid using fabric under concrete slabs or rigid paver bases unless specified by the design — proper compaction and drainage are more critical.

ECOgardener Landscape Fabric: Smart Addition Under Walkways

Landscape fabric can be a smart addition under walkways, patios, and paths — when used correctly. It acts as a barrier against weeds, supports your base layer, and helps keep your project looking great for years. While it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, thoughtful planning and proper installation make all the difference.

If you’re building a gravel path, a rustic stepping stone trail, or a simple patio, consider whether fabric fits into your hardscape design — and use it to build a beautiful, low-maintenance outdoor space from the ground up.