Whether you are trying to build a logging road and wish to make sure the fountain is secure or you are protecting your steep hillsides from erosion, the uses of geotextiles can be endless. These versatile fabrics are designed to help protect the soil. 

 The main types of these wonderful fabrics are needle punched, heat bonded and woven. Each fabric has its strengths to add to different projects. Some are created to allow drainage while others are created to prevent erosion long enough for plant life to return to a damaged area.  

 The purpose for using the fabrics within the construction of roads and railways is to help provide a stable, long lasting foundation. The fabric prevents the aggregate from combining with the soil below. This can benefit the lifespan of the project and can reduce the amount of maintenance required over that lifetime. It does not matter if the road is paved or an unpaved road such as a logging road.  

 Another use for the fabrics is to contain plant growth. Some fabrics can prevent tree roots from growing into areas where they can cause damage to sidewalks and building foundations.  

 The fabrics can be a great tool when it comes to landscaping. Erosion control blankets allow a person to plant on a steep hillside or in an area with soil damage. The blankets hold the soil in place to allow plants to take root in the area. Once the plants have rooted in place, the blankets eventually degrade, leaving only the plants.  

 Landfills are another place which can benefit from these designs. By allowing drainage but also creating containment, the fabrics allow water and gases to escape from the pits. They can also be used along drainage ditches to keep the soil in place during heavy run off.  

 Lack of drainage along structures such as retaining walls can cause erosion as the water moves along the top of the wall. By using fabric along with a drainage core when the wall is built, you give the water a place to safely move. The water moves down the drainage core and the fabric protects the soil from further erosion.   

 When building new projects or repairing old ones be sure to consider the uses of geotextiles. These multifaceted fabrics can help in a variety of projects to add strength and drainage. Many projects can be stronger or longer lasting with the addition of these fabrics.