Best Weed Control Fabric for Decking: 2025 Expert Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Timber Specialist
There is nothing more frustrating than investing time and money into a beautiful timber deck, only to have nettles and grass poking through the gaps six months later. In the damp climate we often face here in the UK, weeds are opportunistic and relentless.
Many homeowners make the mistake of using cheap, thin landscape fabric—or worse, bin liners—thinking nobody will see it. However, once the decking boards are down, rectifying a weed problem is a massive headache that involves lifting the entire structure. Doing it right the first time is essential.
In this review, I'll recommend the weed control fabrics I trust on my own jobs. I look for high GSM (grams per square metre) for durability, excellent water permeability to prevent puddling under the joists, and UV stability for longevity.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "100% Weed Proof Claims"
"Marketing often suggests laying the fabric guarantees zero growth forever."
While quality fabric stops 99% of growth, aggressive perennial weeds (like bindweed or mares tail) can punch through if not treated chemically first. The fabric is a barrier, but ground prep is still vital.
The Spec: "GSM (Thickness)"
"Higher GSM constitutes a better product in every scenario."
High GSM (100+) is crucial for strength, but if the weave is too tight, water won't drain. Under decking, you need permeability to stop pools of water rotting your timber sub-frame.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
LawnScape 1M x 10M Weed Control Membrane 105 GSM Heavy Duty
LawnScape
If you are working on a smaller project or a tight budget, this LawnScape membrane offers decent protection without the premium price tag. At 105 GSM, it's thicker than the flimsy 50 GSM fabrics often sold in supermarkets, making it a sensible entry-level choice.
The Good
- Excellent price point for small areas
- 105 GSM is robust enough for light foot traffic during installation
- Easy to cut and handle without excessive fraying
The Bad
- The 1m width means more seams/taping on larger decks
- Shorter lifespan compared to professional-grade options
Installer Tip:
Because this roll is only 1m wide, verify you overlap the joints by at least 150mm. Use dedicated ground pegs to secure the overlaps, otherwise, they will curl up whilst you're trying to lay the joists.
Priced at £6.19 at the time of writing
Check Price on Amazon4m x 15m Pro-Tec Gold-Line 125gsm EXTRA Heavy Duty Weed Control Membrane
Pro-Tec Garden Products
This is the sort of product professional landscapers and joiners rely on. The 125 GSM thickness provides a serious barrier against growth, and the use of virgin plastic rather than recycled materials means it keeps its strength for significantly longer under the ground.
The Good
- 125 GSM offers excellent puncture resistance
- Virgin materials ensure it doesn't degrade quickly in soil
- Large roll size reduces the number of joints needed
The Bad
- Heavier to handle alone due to the roll size
- More expensive upfront, but cheaper over the deck's life
Installer Tip:
Use the 'Gold Lines' woven into the fabric to help you square up your site. When rolling out 4m widths, it's easy to go off-square; the lines give you a visual guide to keep your timber sub-frame straight.
Priced at £39.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonPro-Tec 130gsm Commercial Grade SUPER Heavy Duty Weed Control Membrane
Pro-Tec Garden Products
If your garden has a history of aggressive weeds or you are building on particularly rough ground with sharp stones, this 130 GSM commercial-grade sheet is the solution. It offers the highest density protection whilst maintaining necessary water permeability.
The Good
- Highest GSM (130) for maximum weed suppression
- 25-year guarantee matches the lifespan of high-quality timber
- Green colour can be more discreet if edges are visible
The Bad
- Stiffness can make it slightly harder to fold into tight corners
- Requires sharp scissors or a fresh knife blade to cut cleanly
Installer Tip:
This fabric is incredibly tough. When laying it over a sharp gravel base or scalpings, this 130 GSM thickness is your best friend as it resists puncturing better than lighter alternatives. Clear huge rocks, but don't worry about smaller stones.
Priced at £33.95 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Does water drain through weed control fabric?
Should I put gravel on top of the membrane under decking?
How much should I overlap the fabric joints?
Can I just use black plastic bin bags instead?
Do I really need a professional to install decking?
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