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Why use a separate geotextile underneath a gravel grid rather than a closed-cell design?
28 March 2025
David Fisher
Head of Geosynthetics Sales Ecodeck Gravel Paver with a Separate Geotextile is Superior to Combined Gravel GridsWhen considering ground reinforcement solutions for gravel surfaces, choosing the right system is crucial for long-term performance and cost-effectiveness. A common debate is whether to use a gravel paver like Ecodeck or CellTrack with a separate geotextile such as Multitrack 1000 / TerraTrack Lite or a combined system sometimes referred to as a ‘closed cell design’, which has a geotextile pre-attached. While both options aim to stabilise gravel surfaces, using a separate geotextile with Ecodeck or CellTrack offers significant advantages. Enhanced flexibilityA separate geotextile allows for a tailored approach to site conditions. A geotextile can be selected based on the permeability and strength required for specific soil types. In contrast, combined systems use a fixed geotextile, limiting flexibility and potentially leading to suboptimal performance in certain conditions. 
Improved filtrationGeotextiles play a vital role in filtration, preventing soil migration while allowing water to pass through. When used separately, a high-quality geotextile like Multitrack 1000 / TerraTrack Lite can be installed to match the required performance. Integrated textiles in combined products may not be optimally positioned, leading to inefficiencies, water pooling, or increased risk of clogging over time. Better Load Distribution and StabilityEcodeck’s or CellTrack’s robust structure combined with a properly selected geotextile ensures better load distribution and soil separation. With an independent geotextile, there is no risk of detachment, which can occur in combined systems where the textile is factory-fitted and may weaken over time. This improves long-term stability and reduces maintenance costs. Easier Installation and MaintenanceUsing a separate geotextile provides greater control during installation, allowing for adjustments based on the site’s needs. This ensures a consistent base layer and eliminates issues related to misalignment that can occur with pre-attached textiles. Additionally, separate geotextiles can be replaced or upgraded independently if needed, whereas a damaged integrated geotextile requires full replacement of the entire grid system. 
Cost effective in the long runWhile an integrated system might seem convenient, its limitations can lead to higher maintenance costs due to issues like inadequate drainage or compromised stability. Investing in a separate, high-performance geotextile with Ecodeck or CellTrack provides a more durable solution, reducing the likelihood of costly repairs or replacements. ConclusionChoosing Ecodeck gravel pavers with a separate geotextile such as Multitrack 1000 offers superior flexibility, drainage performance, stability, ease of installation, and long-term cost savings. While combined systems may provide initial convenience, their fixed design and potential performance drawbacks make them less reliable in varied ground conditions. A separate geotextile ensures that each layer of the system functions optimally, delivering a more effective and sustainable solution for gravel reinforcement. Related products
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