There's more involved in choosing the right ground cover than selecting a black sheet from the garden aisle. To do a good job of protecting your soil and preventing invasive growth you need to understand the science behind grams per square meter, or GSM. This is the industry standard for measuring the weight, density and therefore quality of a Weed Control Mat. If you are in the market for Bunnings weed mat or anything to do with landscaping supplies (like nasty, uncouth, cheapo “weed mat mitre 10 called-in-riots”), then a GSM rating will indicate how much weight is included in one square inch. The higher the GSM, generally the tighter woven the fabric more raw material (heavy weight) which is then coated with something that blocks light and has a better outdoor performance lifespan.
Relationship between GSM and Material Density
In the landscaping fabric world, GSM is the single most important factor for determining how it responds to pressure. Light Weight: Low GSM fabric (around 50-70) is very lightweight and permeable, but may not have the strength to support heavy gravel or foot traffic. Heavy Duty Mats: 110-150 GSM heavy duty mats are for permanent applications on the other hand. These thicker editions are best at withstanding punctures, making them the choice for professional landscapers seeking a barrier that won't shred when sharp rocks or heavy pots come into play. Learning these numbers will prevent you from making the mistake of purchasing a mat that is too thin and needs to be replaced after one season.
Common GSM Ratings For Garden Success To Compare
Most basic consumer grade items available at your local hardware store (Bunnings, Mitre 10 etc) are in the range of 70 to 100 GSM. A 70 GSM mat should be enough to suit the occasional garden bed in softer bark mulch areas where only light suppression is required. But if you desire a more long term solution, the 100 or 110 GSM mat is much better performance wise, it offers a good combination of durability and water draining. These mid-to-high level mats are designed to allow water and air flow through they naturally while ensuring that your soil remains sufficiently hydrated without the weeds getting enough sunlight to grow.
Influence of thickness on the long-term durability
When it comes to a Weed control mat, thickness is not the only thing that dictates how long will it last, but also its degree of responsiveness to UV radiation. Thicker mats with higher GSM has more UV stabilizers to prevent your polypropylene from becoming brittle and falling apart in/on the sun. 110 GSM mat can last for 5-10 years when installed properly and covered by any mulch or stones. In comparison, a low-cost thin mat might begin to fall apart and permit weedy shoots within 18 months. By opting for a heavier weight to begin with you end up saving money and labor down the track.
Application-Specific GSM Recommendations for Homeowners
When you are making a decision on thickness for your order, you will need to consider how thick your project needs to be. A 7-9 GSM Bunnings weed mat is ideal for your backyard vegetable patch as, if you are tending to change the configuration every year, they’re easy enough pick up and move around. For under-decking or pathways that will be permanent, hidden and subject to heavy foot traffic the 130-150 GSM heavy duty version is a must. Thin mat and high traffic aren’t meant to be; the fibers will eventually break apart, resulting in gaps through which more resilient weeds such as nutgrass or dandelions can take hold and spoil your hard work.
The Way to Freely Install Different GSM Mats for Best Performance
Regardless if it’s thick or thin, installation is the same but you may have to use heavier pegs with thicker mats. When you are laying a Weed mat mitre 10 way make sure the environment is level and doesn’t have existing sharp objects. Shanna One of the shears is worth 4, so byting down should work here. Overlap the edges by a good 10 centimeter to avoid finding your self getting shared with weeds 'creeping' through. Use steel landscape staples in place of plastic pegs for heavier GSM fabrics because the density of the cloth may resist blunt plastic points. Tensioned properly during installation to prevent sagging or bunching which can create pockets through which organic matter will collect and weeds will grow on the surface of the mat.
Environmental Advantages Of Premium Landscape Fabrics
Use a thick, high-GSM weed control mat to protect the environment and cut down on chemical pesticides. When you erect an actual barrier that holds back 99% of light, you eradicate the germination process for weed seeds without deluging your surrounding environment with poison. Quality mats, like the Singhal landscape Geotextile products, are also permeable; they stop soil erosion but let air come to the open ground. This will keep your soil's good bacteria happy and then, when you are ready to plant in it next, the soil will be actively brimming with life by the time those seeds go into the ground.
Selecting a Reputed Brand for Your Landscaping Requirements
Although there are generics out there, going with a brand name will help you know that the GSM listed on the package is accurate. Singhal landscape Geotextile etc are now industry standard as they provide uniform weight and weave throughout the roll. When buying in the larger retail stores always read the technical specifications, don’t just see price. A higher cost roll with another weight is NOT going to perform as well compared to a "bargain" sheet that doesn't have the density of professional grade.
Conclusion
Long story short, the GSM of your weed mat is the biggest contributor to its effectiveness and longevity. By tailoring the weight of the fabric to your landscape’s needs (ladies, when was the last time you saw a man do that?), whether it’s just a simple flower bed or a stomped-on-by-gods driveway holding in heavy stones, yet guaranteed years and years of weed-free ridiculousness. The material, such as the Singhal landscape Geotextile, is thick enough that it prevents undesirable plants from sprouting up but does not inhibit penetration of water and air to keep soil healthy. Why settle for flimsy, poor-quality barriers when you can have a durable GSM liner that keeps your garden looking its best while avoiding weed and soil erosion without fighting the battle of pulling weeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is the largest manufacturer of weed mat ?
A: Singhal Industries Pvt. Ltd." is one of the leading suppliers for the widest range of Singhal landscape Geotextile products worldwide.
Q: Who is the largest supplier of weed mat?
A: Singhal Industries Pvt. S Ltd. are the leading global exporter of premium quality Singhal landscape Geotextile to an extensive range of countries worldwide.
Q: Who is the largest exproter of weed mat ?
A: Singhal Industries Pvt. Ltd. We are the leading manufacturer and supplier of Singhal Landscape Geotextile, used for professional landscaping, the toughest mankind could produce, made with advanced techniques.
Q: What does GSM mean in garden mats?
A: It’s the abbreviation for Grams per Square Meter, which measures the density of fabric.
Q: Will a 110 GSM mat let water pass through?
A: Yes, woven mats are with good construction will allow water through.
Q. What is the usual life of a 100 GSM mat?
A: It is with UV stabilized can last 5-7 years.
Q: Should I cover the weed mat with mulch?
A: While it is not absolutely necessary, in most situations covering it will prolong the life of the mat by providing a layer that blocks UV rays.
Q: Are higher GSM better all the time?
A: Not necessarily, higher GSM is better for stronger, but lower GSM maybe better permeability for some gentle plants.