How many staples or pins do I need?

Needs vary by site. A common baseline is about one staple every five feet on key edges, then add more at seams, corners, curves, and around plant openings.

Weed Barrier Fabric - Heavy Duty - 4.75oz - 12' x 250' Roll

Q: What does “4.75 oz” mean for weed barrier fabric?

It typically refers to fabric weight per square yard. Heavier weights usually mean better durability during installation and longer-term performance in gravel/rock and commercial landscapes.

Q: How much overlap should I use at seams?

A widely used approach is 4–6 inches of overlap at seams. Pin the seam line more densely so wind and shifting materials can’t lift it.

Q: Should weed barrier fabric go under mulch?

It can, especially in shrub beds and commercial installs. Keep it covered (often about 3–4 inches of mulch), use edging to control migration, and cut tight plant openings to reduce weed intrusion.

Q: How do I cut holes for plants without creating weed hot spots?

Use a clean X slit, fold back flaps, plant, then tuck fabric back tight around the stem area without constricting the plant. Keep openings as small as practical.

Q: Do weeds ever grow on top of the fabric?

Yes. Windblown seeds can germinate in organic debris on top of mulch or rock. Fabric blocks weeds from below, but routine cleanup and maintaining cover depth helps minimize surface weeds.

$845.55

FREE SHIPPING

SKU HDWF5-12x250

Quantity

When looking for a thick, strong fabric which provides dependable weed control, look no further than the Hybrid Series. Constructed of both woven and non woven fabrics, this fabric provides the high strength of a woven fabric with the permeability of a non-woven. One side of the fabric has a fuzzy texture which can be used to stabilize mulch and for convenient planting, stripes are provided with 12" spacing.

Product Specifics

Series: HDWF5
Estimated Material Lifespan: 20 years

Free Shipping
Volume Pricing Available on Large Rolls
(widths 9 feet and above)
Questions? Call (800) 748-5647

Hybrid 4.75 oz Fabric

Contractor Grade
UV Resistant
Non-Biodegradable
Will Not Rot or Mildew
Resistant to Rodent and Insect Damage

All of our geotextile fabrics are professional-grade and are designed for use in both residential & commercial applications. Our fabrics are designed for years of continuous use in the designated application.

Fabric Installation

Prepare area by removing all weeds and plants from the desired area. For increased protection consider applying a pre-emergent herbicide prior to laying down the weed barrier fabric.
Unroll and cut the weed barrier fabric to the appropriate length. If overlapping the fabric, allow for a 4" - 6" overlap. Cut an "X" slit in the location where each plant will be placed. Secure the fabric with fabric staples, staggering the staples at an approximate rate of 1 staple per 5 feet.
Cover the fabric with 3-4 inches of bark, mulch or stone to protect the fabric from ultraviolet light and to give the project a finished look.

Shipping

All Fabric Ships for Free (standard ground, see map)
Expedited shipping only available on orders over $2,000
Call: (800) 748-5647 for pricing and ship times

Shipping estimates shown on the map pertain to this specific product only. Fabric orders typically ship same day if the order is placed before 12:00 noon CST. Transit times displayed in the map are listed in business days, and are approximate. The day that the order is shipped is not counted as a transit day.

Other sizes available:

FABRIC SPECIFICATIONS

To the best of our knowledge, the information contained herein is accurate. However, Pro Fabric Supply cannot anticipate all conditions under which the above product information and the products which we distribute or the products of other distributors or manufacturers in combination with the products which we offer, may be used. We accept no responsibility for results obtained by the application of this information or the safety or suitability of the products we distribute either alone or in combination with other products. Final determination of the suitability of any information or material for the used contemplated, or its manner of use, and whether the suggested use infringes any patents is the sole responsibility of the user. Please note: Pro Fabric Supply is a distributor of geotextile fabric, not the manufacturer. We source material from a number of different United States based geotextile manufacturers.

Download Specification Sheet

Landscape & Hardscape Prep Guide

Heavy-Duty Weed Barrier Fabric: How to Choose It, Install It, and Get Long-Term Weed Control

Heavy-duty weed barrier fabric (also called landscape fabric) is a permeable geotextile—a tough textile that blocks sunlight to slow weed germination while still letting water and air move through the soil. When it’s selected and installed correctly, it can dramatically reduce maintenance in gravel areas, mulched beds, and commercial landscapes without “sealing” the ground like plastic sheeting.

Example product used in this guide

Roll size: 12' × 250' (covers about 3,000 sq ft before overlaps)
Fabric weight: 4.75 oz (heavy-duty class)
Construction: hybrid woven + nonwoven (strength + drainage)
Helpful features: fuzzy side for mulch stability + 12" planting stripes

Product reference: Weed Barrier Fabric – Heavy Duty – 4.75oz – 12' × 250'

Where heavy-duty fabric typically shines

Gravel walkways, decorative rock beds, and dry river rock features
Commercial landscape beds where crews need faster, cleaner maintenance
Under mulch in shrub beds (especially with crisp edging)
Large plantings where spacing lines save layout time

Contractor grade UV resistant Won’t rot or mildew Non-biodegradable

Table of contents

What heavy-duty weed barrier fabric is (and what it isn’t)
How to choose the right fabric for your project
Planning your roll layout: coverage, overlaps, and staples
Step-by-step installation (mulch, gravel, and plant beds)
Best practices that increase lifespan and performance
Case study: commercial gravel bed upgrade that cut maintenance time
FAQ

What Heavy-Duty Weed Barrier Fabric Is (and What It Isn’t)

Weed barrier fabric works by blocking light at the soil surface so many weed seeds can’t sprout. At the same time, because the fabric is a geotextile (a technical term for an engineered, permeable fabric), it allows water to pass through rather than pooling on top. In plain terms: it’s a breathable weed-control layer—not a plastic “seal.”

It helps with…

Weed pressure reduction: fewer weeds break through in mulched beds and rock features.
Cleaner gravel and rock: separation keeps stone from mixing into subgrade soils over time.
Lower labor hours: less weeding and fewer “reset” cleanups after storms.

It does not replace…

Good base prep: grading, compacting, and clean edges still matter.
Edging: without edging, mulch and rock migrate and expose fabric to UV.
Occasional spot maintenance: windblown seeds can still germinate in organic debris on top of mulch/rock.

How to Choose the Right Fabric for Your Project

The “best” weed barrier fabric depends on what’s going on top of it and how long you want it to last. A key spec is fabric weight (oz), which is a simple way to describe how robust the material is.

1) Start with the surface: mulch vs. gravel vs. mixed landscaping

Under gravel/rock: choose a heavier-duty fabric that can handle abrasion and foot traffic during installation.
Under mulch: heavy-duty fabric helps, but success depends heavily on securing it and keeping it covered.
Planting beds: look for spacing aids (like stripes) and a fabric that’s easy to cut cleanly for planting holes.

2) Understand woven, nonwoven, and hybrid fabrics

Woven: typically stronger in tension (good for durability), with structured weave.
Nonwoven: typically higher permeability (water movement), often “felt-like.”
Hybrid (woven + nonwoven): blends strength and drainage—useful for landscapes that need both performance and easier maintenance.

3) Look for real-world features that speed up installation

Planting stripes: 12" spacing lines can speed layout for shrubs, perennials, and groundcover.
Mulch-stabilizing texture: a fuzzy side helps hold mulch in place (especially on mild slopes).
UV resistance: important because sun exposure can weaken fabric over time—covering the fabric helps even more.

Placing gravel on top of heavy-duty weed barrier fabric for long-term weed control

Photo 1: Installing gravel over heavy-duty weed barrier fabric

Practical example: why heavy-duty fabric matters under gravel

Gravel installation is hard on fabric: foot traffic, wheelbarrows, rakes, and angular stone can scuff or tear lighter materials. A heavy-duty option is typically chosen here because it’s more forgiving during placement and helps maintain a clean separation layer as the area settles.

Tip for best results: install your base, compact, lay fabric tight, and then place gravel gently (avoid dumping a full load directly onto an unprotected edge).

Planning Your Roll Layout: Coverage, Overlaps, and Staples

Planning saves time (and prevents weak seams). Here’s a simple way to estimate materials before you start.

Coverage math you can do in 30 seconds

Example roll: 12' × 250' = 3,000 sq ft of gross coverage.
Overlap allowance: plan for 4"–6" overlap at seams (overlap reduces net coverage, so add a little extra if your layout has many seams).
Fastener baseline: a common rule of thumb is about 1 staple every 5 feet along key edges, then add extra staples at overlaps, corners, and transitions.

Seam strategy (so weeds don’t find the “easy path”)

Overlap fabric 4"–6" at every seam.
Stagger seams when possible (avoid lining multiple seams up in one spot).
Pin seams more densely than open field areas—this is where wind and shifting materials try to lift fabric.

Step-by-Step Installation

The steps below are written for heavy-duty landscape weed barrier fabric installed in typical landscape conditions. If your project has a spec (commercial plans, municipality details, HOA rules), follow that first.

Tools & materials checklist

Weed barrier fabric roll(s)
Fabric staples/pins (6" is common; longer pins may help in loose soils)
Utility knife or scissors
Rake, shovel, and (if needed) a hand tamper or plate compactor for base prep
Mulch or gravel/rock cover (plan a consistent depth)
Optional: pre-emergent herbicide (for added protection under fabric where allowed)

1) Prep the area (this is where most failures start)

Remove existing weeds and vegetation (roots and crowns included).
Grade the area to drain properly (avoid low spots that collect water).
Rake smooth and remove sharp debris that can puncture fabric.
If you’re using base rock under gravel areas, place and compact it now.

2) Roll out fabric and align it tight

Unroll fabric in the direction that gives you the fewest seams.
Keep it flat and snug—wrinkles create air gaps that can lift over time.
Plan overlaps at seams of 4"–6".

Cutting X-shaped planting holes in heavy-duty weed barrier fabric for shrubs and plants

Photo 2: Cutting planting holes (“X” slits) for shrubs and plantings

3) Secure the fabric (wind-proof the install)

Staple the fabric so it stays tight during cover placement. A common baseline is about 1 staple per 5 feet on key edges, then add more where movement is likely: seams, corners, curves, and around plant openings.

4) Cut planting holes the right way

For plants, cut a clean “X” slit where each plant goes, fold the flaps back, and plant. This approach keeps the opening small so fewer weeds can sneak through. If your fabric includes 12" planting stripes, use them to keep spacing consistent and rows straight.

5) Cover the fabric (protect it and make it look finished)

Fabric lasts longer and performs better when it stays covered. A common approach is to cover it with about 3–4 inches of mulch or stone. This protects from UV exposure and reduces the chance of tears from traffic or rakes.

Under mulch: if one side is fuzzy/textured, that side can help stabilize mulch.
Under gravel/rock: place rock carefully to avoid shifting the fabric; rake to even depth once the surface is protected.

Best Practices That Increase Lifespan and Performance

Build a “weed barrier system,” not just a fabric layer

Use edging: metal, aluminum, or paver edging helps keep mulch/rock from migrating and exposing fabric.
Keep organic debris off rock beds: windblown soil + leaves create a thin “topsoil” layer where weeds can sprout.
Don’t leave fabric exposed: even UV-resistant fabric benefits from consistent cover.
Overlap and pin seams well: seams are where weeds and water movement try to exploit gaps.

Common mistakes (and the quick fix)

Mistake: laying fabric over active weeds.
Fix: remove weeds first; consider pre-emergent where appropriate.
Mistake: not enough staples/pins.
Fix: pin edges and seams more densely, especially in wind-prone areas.
Mistake: skipping overlap.
Fix: overlap seams 4"–6" and fasten the seam line tightly.
Mistake: thin cover layer.
Fix: maintain a consistent 3–4" mulch/stone layer to protect fabric.

Case Study: A Gravel Landscape Upgrade That Cut Maintenance Time

Project type: Commercial entry beds + decorative gravel strips along a sidewalk
Primary problem: persistent weeds in gravel and mud mixing into rock after storms
Goal: reduce hand weeding, keep gravel cleaner, and improve long-term appearance

What was installed

A heavy-duty, 4.75 oz hybrid weed barrier fabric used as the separation/weed-control layer.
Seams overlapped 4"–6" and pinned tightly, with extra fasteners at edges and transitions.
Plant openings cut with “X” slits and kept as small as practical around each plant.
A refreshed surface layer of gravel applied evenly to protect fabric and improve finish.

What made it successful

Prep was taken seriously: weeds were removed first and the base was smoothed to avoid punctures and wrinkles.
Seams were treated like critical points: proper overlap + dense pinning reduced lift and weed intrusion.
Cover depth stayed consistent: gravel was maintained so fabric didn’t end up exposed to sun and rakes.

Result

The gravel stayed visually cleaner (less soil migration), and weeds were noticeably reduced—especially in the high-traffic perimeter where maintenance crews previously spent the most time. The property manager reported fewer “reset” cleanups after storms and easier routine touch-ups.

Finished landscaping project using weed barrier fabric under mulch and decorative materials

Photo 3: Finished landscape area after weed barrier fabric installation

Takeaway: the fabric is only as good as the details

Heavy-duty fabric can be a long-term win, but the performance comes from the whole system—prep, overlap, fastening, and a protective cover layer. If you build it like a permanent feature (not a quick add-on), maintenance gets easier year after year.

Tip: If your fabric includes a mulch-stabilizing (fuzzy) side, orient it to support your top layer and reduce shifting—especially in beds that get wind or runoff.

FAQ: Heavy-Duty Weed Barrier Fabric

What does “4.75 oz” mean for weed barrier fabric?

“Ounces” typically refers to fabric weight per square yard (a common way to describe robustness). In practical terms, a heavier fabric weight usually means better durability during installation and longer-term performance in gravel/rock and commercial landscapes.

How much overlap should I use at seams?

A widely used approach is 4"–6" overlap at every seam. Pin the seam line more densely than open areas so wind and shifting materials can’t lift it.

Should weed barrier fabric go under mulch?

It can, especially in shrub beds and commercial installs where weed pressure and maintenance costs are high. The key is to keep fabric covered (often around 3–4 inches of mulch), use edging to control migration, and cut tight plant openings so weeds don’t exploit gaps.

How do I cut holes for plants without creating weed “hot spots”?

Use a clean “X” slit, fold back the flaps, plant, then tuck fabric back tight around the stem area (without girdling the plant). Keep openings as small as practical. Spacing stripes can help keep layout consistent and reduce unnecessary cutting.

How many staples/pins do I need?

Staple needs vary by soil, wind, and layout complexity. A common baseline is about 1 staple every 5 feet on key edges, then add extra at seams, corners, curves, and around plant openings. When in doubt, pin more—loose fabric is the fastest path to failure.

Do weeds ever grow on top of the fabric?

Yes—windblown seeds can sprout in organic debris that accumulates on top of mulch or rock. The fabric blocks weeds coming from below, but you still want to keep beds clean and maintain cover depth to minimize surface germination.

Note: This guide is educational. Site conditions, project specs, and local requirements may affect material selection and installation details. Always confirm compatibility for specialty applications (pavers, slopes, drainage-sensitive areas) before installation.