Landscaping fabric's fine for weeds and small stuff, but tree roots? Nah, learned that lesson the hard way. Had a rental property where roots from a neighbor's maple punched right through fabric and cracked the patio slabs within three years. Ended up installing a heavy-duty plastic barrier about two feet deep—no issues since. Honestly, fabric alone just delays the inevitable...
"Honestly, fabric alone just delays the inevitable..."
Yeah, exactly. Fabric's more of a temporary fix than anything. Good call on digging in the plastic barrier—sounds like you nailed it with that approach. Tree roots are relentless...glad you got ahead of them.
Curious if the plastic barrier affects water drainage at all...have you noticed any pooling or runoff issues since installing it? I've been hesitant to try plastic myself, worried about unintended side effects.
Installed a plastic barrier about two years back to manage some aggressive maple roots. Initially, I had similar concerns about drainage, but honestly haven't noticed any significant pooling or runoff issues. Key thing is making sure the barrier isn't completely sealed—leave small gaps or perforations at the bottom edge to allow water flow. Did mine that way and drainage stayed normal, even after heavy rains. Just don't go overboard sealing every inch...roots won't sneak through tiny gaps, but water definitely will.
I've had a similar experience—installed mine about three years ago, and drainage hasn't been an issue either. One thing I'd add though: check occasionally for buildup of debris or dirt clogging those small gaps...it can happen over time and affect water flow.
