Planning guide
What is fabric?
Landscape fabric is a permeable geotextile installed over prepared soil to separate materials, support aggregate installations, and sometimes reduce weed establishment beneath inorganic cover.
How this calculation works
Multiply the finished area's length by its width to find coverage. The calculator adds 10% for overlapping seams, trimming at boundaries, and fitting around curves, plants, and landscape features.
Common measurement mistakes
- Ordering only the exact measured area with no seam allowance
- Forgetting to overlap adjoining fabric sections
- Measuring one large rectangle without subtracting patios or other uncovered areas
Professional tips
- Overlap adjoining sections according to the product instructions
- Pin seams and edges securely before adding cover material
- Cut small X-shaped openings around plants and trim neatly at permanent edges
Landscape Fabric Calculator FAQs
How much extra landscape fabric should I buy?
A 10% allowance is practical for basic overlap and trimming. Irregular beds, many obstacles, or narrow roll widths may create more waste.
How much should landscape fabric overlap?
Follow the fabric manufacturer's instructions. An overlap of 3–6 inches (8–15 cm) is common, but slopes, drainage applications, and separation projects may require a different overlap.
How do I estimate fabric for an irregular area?
Divide the project into simple rectangles, calculate each area, and add them together. Include the overlap and trimming allowance after combining the measured areas.