How to Lay a Weed Barrier Under a Gravel Driveway

Putting a weed barrier down under a gravel driveway can significantly lower the number of weeds that you have to deal with each year. While it may not be a completely foolproof option, it will make things easier for you later. Follow the simple steps below to plan and lay a weed barrier.

Remove the Top Layer and Level

To begin, remove the top layer of soil or rocks from the driveway area. You need to make sure that there is no organic matter under where the driveway will be located, remove any sticks, roots, grass, or other plants that are there. If you have access to a tractor, this is one of the best ways to do this part of the project. Use the front of the tractor to scrape the top layer off of the ground. If you do not have a tractor, you will have to do this part of the project with a shovel and some manual labor.

Pack it Down

After you have removed the top layer, you need to make sure that the surface is very solid. Without the proper amount of density, the gravel driveway will not perform very well in the future, so rent or borrow a compactor to help pack the dirt down.

Lay the Barrier

At this point, you need to lay the weed barrier down your compacted dirt. Some people prefer using a geotextile fabric while others like using traditional landscaping fabric. Geotextile fabric is generally a little more durable and will stand up to wear and tear under a driveway. This type of fabric comes in large rolls, so you'll have to have a friend help you roll it out onto the surface of the driveway bed. Make sure that every part is covered with your choice of fabric, and this will help prevent weeds from making their way down into the soil.

Cover with Gravel Again

Once you have the fabric on the ground, you need to cover it back up with gravel. There are several different types that you can use, so what you use is simply a matter of personal preference. Pour what you have chosen on top of the landscaping fabric, and make sure that it is evenly spread over the surface and level. After you cover the entire area, use your compactor to press it down. This will help compact the driveway and make it more smooth and durable.