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Get Rid of Pesky Plants With the Best Weed Barriers

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By Old House Journal Review Team
Last updated: 21 Feb 2023

When it comes to yard maintenance, weed barriers are an invaluable asset. They help prevent weeds and other plant matter from growing in your lawn and gardens, making it easier to care for and enjoy your outdoor space. This article reviews some of the best weed barriers of 2023, so you can find the perfect product for your needs.

We review the top-selling weed barriers of the current market, their strengths and weaknesses, and what factors to consider when choosing the right one for you. If you’re looking for a chemical-free solution to your weed problem, this post has you covered.

Best Overall
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Goasis Lawn Weed Barrier
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Best for Larger Areas
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VEVOR Weed Barrier
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Best for Xeriscaping
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WAENLIR Weed Barrier
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Most Affordable Option
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AGTEK Weed Barrier
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Best for Sunny Areas
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DeWitt Weed Barrier
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The Ultimate Buyer's Guide To Finding a Suitable Weed Barrier

There are several essential product features to consider when purchasing a weed barrier. Factors like material, permeability, weight, UV protection, thickness, installation, and maintenance requirements are all critical for making an informed decision when selecting the correct weed barrier for your needs. Check out why below! 

Material

The material of the weed barrier is an essential factor to consider when purchasing a product. Plastic is a highly durable option that can offer a long lifespan but may be too heavy for specific applications. Fabric weed barriers also come in various materials, including polypropylene and jute, which are lightweight and easier to move around than plastic varieties. Consider the overall durability of the material for your particular use when selecting a weed barrier. 

Permeability

A sound weed barrier should allow water and nutrients to reach the soil conveniently. Look for products with permeability ratings that indicate the amount of air, water, and nutrients that can pass through the material when installed correctly. Planter beds should be designed with layers to allow water to move freely from one area to another to ensure adequate drainage.

Weight

If you plan on moving or storing your weed barrier regularly, opt for a lighter material, such as fabric, to reduce strain on you or your employees. Lightweight products make transport more accessible and efficient if you use your barrier in multiple locations. 

UV Protection 

Selecting products that offer UV protection and dark colors to reduce heat absorption and maximize outdoor applications’ longevity is essential. It can help prevent fading over time and ensure you get the most out of your purchase. 

Thickness

The thickness of the material will affect how well it can handle punctures and tears in high-traffic areas requiring frequent movement of equipment or foot traffic. Thicker materials offer increased durability but may need to be lighter for specific applications. Consider what type of usage your chosen area requires before deciding on a thickness rating that is right for you. 

Price

You don’t have to break the bank when investing in a weed barrier, but looking for affordable options that still provide quality performance is essential. Evaluate products carefully before making a purchase decision or opt for a manufacturer’s guarantee or warranty for extra peace of mind about the quality of your purchase. 

Size

Measuring the area where you want to install your weed barrier is essential before making a purchase decision. Determine the dimensions needed by measuring width and length several times to ensure accurate results. Based on those measurements, evaluate which size best fits your needs so you know you are getting the right product.  

Maintenance

Look for products requiring minimal maintenance once installed, such as weeding or cleaning up debris that may accumulate on top of the material over time due to wear and tear or weather conditions like strong winds or excessive rainfall. Consider what type of usage your chosen area requires before deciding which product will require less upkeep once installed correctly. 

Warranty

Selecting products with a manufacturer’s guarantee or warranty is always good practice. It adds an extra layer of security when choosing a product that meets all your needs correctly without any surprises during use or installation processes.

Reviewing the Leading Weed Barrier of 2023

1

Goasis Lawn Weed Barrier

– Best Overall
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Our first pick suits anyone looking to take their gardening to the next level. This professional gardening solution provides unparalleled weed control and is easy to install and set up. It is light enough to carry and cut yet heavy enough to protect your garden from weeds. The fabric also contributes to reducing chemical usage and reducing environmental impact. 

The Goasis Lawn Weed Barrier promotes air and water circulation and helps conserve natural soil moisture. Its heavy-duty design ensures long-lasting garden protection that won’t let you down for anyone looking for an effective way to keep weeds at bay without compromising their soil’s value and moisture content. It is why it is our top pick overall.

Pros
  • Easy to install using a household hammer 
  • You can trim it with wire cutters 
  • Helps deter weeds in raised garden beds
  • Works excellent for securing irrigation lines 
Cons
  • Popping holes can be challenging.
2

VEVOR Weed Barrier

– Best for Larger Areas
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The following product is an essential tool for anyone looking to protect their garden from pesky weeds. This professional-grade polypropylene fabric has a durable, high-strength design that effectively blocks sunlight and prevents weeds from growing. Not only does it provide weed and soil erosion control, but its good permeability allows air and rainwater to transmit quickly so that water puddling won’t occur on the surface. It’s also lightweight enough for easy transportation and installation and has colored lines to mark intervals to make planting easier.

This VEVOR Weed Barrier Landscape Fabric is an excellent choice for gardening and road engineering projects, whether a vegetable patch, flower bed, artificial lawn, gravel and stone pavement, or driveway. Its high-density texture helps retain humidity and accumulate nutrients in the soil while reducing erosion in rainy seasons. The weed barrier fabric also ensures that your vegetables or flowers can absorb water without root decaying. 

Pros
  • Durable, tarp-like thick material 
  • Light-blocking properties prevent weed growth
  • Allows water to pass through 
  • Covers large areas quickly and efficiently 
Cons
  • Material can be messy when cutting.
3

WAENLIR Weed Barrier

– Best for Xeriscaping
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The WAENLIR Heavy Duty Weed Barrier is a must-have item to control weeds in outdoor garden projects. On top of being easy to install, this fabric is high strength and durable. It boasts a superior construction with tightly woven polypropylene fabric needles and a UV-stabilized design. The 98.7% opaque light-blocking capabilities also make it a perfect choice for preventing weed growth in high-foot-traffic areas.

The highly absorbing weed-reducing fabric allows liquid to filter into the soil without damaging or degrading. It also makes an excellent soil stabilizer for stones or pavers and can be used for landscaping. You can easily cut and handle it into desired shapes and sizes. The fabric’s eco-friendly construction protects your yard’s ecosystem by reducing soil erosion and helping plants thrive.

Pros
  • Thick and sturdy fabric 
  • Heavy and doesn’t blow around 
  • Prevents weed growth effectively 
  • Amazing light-blocking capability 
Cons
  • Can fray if not adequately secured 
4

AGTEK Weed Barrier

– Most Affordable Option
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This weed barrier is the perfect solution for commercial landscaping projects. This heavy-duty fabric keeps weeds down, making worry-free irrigation easier. As a low-cost option for commercial landscape fabric, this product can help landscape architects keep their projects on budget. If reliability is your top priority, you won’t be disappointed with AGTEK’s guaranteed after-sales service. This product will last and provide years of enjoyment and peace of mind. 

Ease of use is another significant advantage of AGTEK Landscape Fabric. The weed barrier is easy to install, and you can use it for multiple purposes. You’ll appreciate its multi-functionality when it comes to landscaping projects. Whether you need it for walkways, playgrounds, or other outdoor areas, this product will meet all your needs.

Pros
  • Keeps weeds down and ground moist
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Easy to shape and cut with regular scissors 
  • Heavy duty and thick 
Cons
  • Has minimum water permeability 
5

DeWitt Weed Barrier

– Best for Sunny Areas
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The DeWitt Ground Cover Weed Barrier is another solid option for anyone looking to eliminate weeds from their garden. Where most outdoor fabrics degrade and fray under harsh sunlight, this weed barrier is UV stabilized to withstand prolonged sun exposure. It is part of DeWitt’s Sunbelt line, guaranteed to last five years under direct sun exposure. It says a lot about its sturdiness and durability. You can use it in sunny areas without worrying about sun-related damage. Plus, it also resists tears and punctures.

This propylene-constructed fabric is a safe and eco-friendly alternative to conventional chemical-based weed-killing methods. It allows water and air to penetrate through but stops light rays from preventing weeds from thriving. 

Pros
  • Excellent for landscaping needs 
  • Guaranteed to last five years
  • Allows air and water to penetrate 
  • Guide stripes ensure proper plant alignment 
Cons
  • Too much for a home gardener 

People Also Asked

Q: What types of weed barriers are available?

A: Several types of weed barriers are available, including paper and plastic sheets, organic mulches, fabric covers, and rock and gravel barriers.

Q: How effective are weed barriers at preventing weeds?

A: Weed barriers can effectively prevent weeds, depending on the material and installation. Organic mulches, for example, can help prevent some weeds from growing while providing beneficial nutrients to the soil. Plastic or fabric barriers can provide an even more effective deterrent to weeds.

Q: How much does a weed barrier cost?

A: The cost of a weed barrier can vary greatly depending on the size and type of material used. Basic plastic sheeting is often inexpensive, while more complex fabrics and rock barriers can be much more expensive.

Q: Is installing a weed barrier easy?

A: The installation process for a weed barrier will depend on the type of material you are using. You can lay down most paper sheets, plastic sheets, and fabric covers in place with minimal effort. Rock and gravel barriers may require more time as you must work these materials into the soil before placement.

Q: What is the best material for a weed barrier?

A: The best material for a weed barrier will depend on your specific needs and the climate where you plan to install it. The most common materials include paper and plastic sheets, organic mulches, fabric covers, and rock and gravel barriers. Be sure to choose a material suited to your climate and landscape needs. 

Q: Are weed barriers safe for pets and children?

A: In general, weed barriers are safe for pets and children if you install them correctly and according to directions. Be sure to supervise your pets or children when they play in areas with newly laid weed barriers to make sure they do not disrupt or damage the material. 

Q: Will a weed barrier prevent all weeds from growing?

A: No, a weed barrier will not prevent all weeds from growing, as some types of weeds may still find their way up through the wall over time or may be brought in by wind or animals dispersing seeds on top of the barrier material. As such, it is essential to regularly check for any emerging weeds before treating them with herbicides or pulling them by hand.

Q: How often should a weed barrier be replaced?

A: Most types of weed barriers should last anywhere from 3-5 years before being replaced due to wear and tear or damage caused by pests or animals digging into the material. However, this timeline will vary depending on the type of material used and how you maintain it. It is essential to check your specific barrier regularly for any signs of wear or damage that might require replacing sooner than expected. 

Q: Do weed barriers cause damage to the soil or plants?

A: No, generally speaking, if installed correctly, most weed barriers should not cause any damage to the soil or plants it covers. As long as there is enough space between the edge of the barrier material and any roots or plants underneath it, they do not get smothered or blocked off from vital nutrients or water supply. 

Q: Can the same type of weed barrier be used in different climates?

A: Yes, you can use many types of weed barriers in different climates, provided they are installed correctly according to directions given by the manufacturer or installer for that specific climate environment. It is important to check local regulations before purchasing any material for use in different climates, as some may not be allowed due to environmental concerns or other restrictions.

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By Old House Journal Review Team
The Old House Journal Review Team’s product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you restore, repair, update, and decorate your home. The content is created by The Old House Journal Review Team. The Old House Journal editorial staff is not involved. Old House Journal is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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