Weeding puts a strain on the lower back, and herbicides affect human health and the soil in no small way. Also, both weeding and herbicide application need to be done regularly. Laying straw mats or steel plates on areas with weeds can control weed growth. Yet, straw mats deteriorate quickly, and steel plates are heavy and difficult to install. Weed control fabrics are much easier to install and last longer and thus can drastically reduce the workload.