Some form of geosynthetic material has been used in the civil engineering as well as the odd residential structural engineer and construction industries since the 1800s. As for the landscaping industry, the past two decades have seen an increase in geosynthetic use for various reasons.
In the landscaping industry, geosynthetics play an important role in providing several benefits to the area being landscaped as well as the surrounding environment. Below we have listed 6 interesting benefits of using geosynthetics in landscaping.
1. Ground Reinforcement
The primary purpose of geosynthetics and geotextiles is to improve soil stabilization. When landscaping and developing new areas, ground reinforcement is key to preventing erosion control. The main areas that need ground reinforcement are retaining walls and embankments. When a load is placed on the soil, expansion happens. With the use of geosynthetic materials, lateral movement is prevented in the ground, and soil displacement will be minimized.
2. Weed Suppression
One of landscaping’s worst enemies is weed growth. Geosynthetic fabrics provide a durable, robust solution to suppressing weeds. Not only does it help to stabilize the soil it is placed on, but it offers filtration and blocks weeds. When a geosynthetic material is combined with mulch or decorative gravel, it will block the light and prevent weeds from growing up.
3. Resists Root Development
Geosynthetics that offer tree root resistance will help protect buildings, walkways, retaining walls, drainage pipes, cables, and lawns from tree root damage. When tree roots grow close to the surface, walkways, lawns, and structures, they are at risk of being disrupted by the tree roots. A geosynthetic material with a high tensile strength that is puncture resistant will work great in a landscaping project with tree roots.
4. Drainage and Filtration
All gardens and landscaped areas need drainage and filtration. A geosynthetic material with bonded textiles, membranes, and netting will help filter and drain. The various materials will prevent soil particles from entering the net and clogging it up when layered. Typical applications would include retaining walls in landscaping architecture.
5. Slope Stabilization
Slope stabilization is imperative in newly developed landscaped areas that are terraced or have embankments. New subdivisions benefit greatly from geosynthetic materials used on slopes and embankments. Fresh dirt that has recently been compacted will need geosynthetic material applied to help with ground reinforcement, drainage, and filtration. This is especially true in areas that receive regular rainfall.
6. Separation and Protection
Geosynthetic materials perform separation, protection, and filtration in landscaping and construction involving sub-base granular layers. Geosynthetics allow water to filter through while separating larger stones or soil. This functional material prevents intermixing, which could cause failure of the surface.
Ultimately, using geosynthetics in your landscaping pursuits can do a lot to protect the landscape and prevent common issues like erosion, drainage issues, and more. On top of that, geosynthetics make it possible to get more creative and adventurous in landscaping designs, which can be extremely beneficial in both commercial and residential uses. The key is to find the right ways to use them based on your landscaping plan.
