GEFA crown bracing systems can hold damaged branches and prevent property damage and personal injury. The installation of the systems is done without injury to the tree, so its natural habitus is preserved. The extensive product range offers tested, state-of-the-art security. Break indicator threads serve as an early warning system and control option when assessing the condition. They tear at approx. 80% of the maximum breaking force.
The Business Administration graduate is your contact for purchasing matters and regarding all queries on our range of tree top securing products.
+49 (0) 2151 / 49 47 52
GEFA crown bracing provides support for damaged branches and prevents property damage and personal injury. The systems are installed in the tree without injury. Its natural habit is retained.
Branches at risk of breaking are posing a danger - parts of the crown falling suddenly can damage parked vehicles or buildings, and in the worst case even injure people. Crown security systems from GEFA Fabritz provide legally compliant and permanent protection.
Trees add value to an urban environment. They filter fine dust and pollutants, improve the microclimate and beautify the cityscape. In addition, they represent a considerable economic investment. The preservation of established trees is consequently the focus of tree care measures. If damage to the tree can be seen, a crown protection is the efficient alternative to pruning or even felling.
At GEFA Fabritz GmbH, we develop high-break solutions for securing crowns. We have been running crown safety systems since 1990 and are continuously optimizing our range. Today we can cover loads of up to 20 t. Our hollow ropes, belts and loops are strong and extremely durable. The efficiency of our crown lock has been repeatedly confirmed in independent test series.
From our experience we know: every tree is different. That is why we develop crown locks that comply with the current rules and regulations and at the same time do justice to the individual case. We deliver our hollow ropes and straps on rolls in 25, 50 or 100 m. Individual cutting on site gives the arborist maximum freedom when installing the crown protection.
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• Dynamic crown protection (movement limitation) prevents vibration-related overloads in the crown. Our elastic straps and hollow ropes with 4 or 7 t breaking strength allow the tree to move and stimulate compensatory growth. The elastic ropes and belts act as a preventive measure against breakage in the case of noticeably weakened or heavily stressed trees.
• The static crown protection, also known as load-bearing protection or fall protection, stabilizes in the event of a cracked bobbin. Our webbing straps and hollow ropes with Dyneema up to 20 t breaking strength fix permanently and prevent already damaged tree parts from tearing further.
In our range for securing crowns, we have many intermediate sizes as well as ropes with higher breaking strengths for individual tasks. Hollow ropes can basically be installed as a one-component system with friction protection, or as a multi-component system, for example with loop straps. We cover the range of 2 - 10 t breaking strength with classic ropes made of polyester (green material identification thread) and a more stretchable polyamide variant (blue material identification thread). Both have white break indicator threads for early warning. The hollow ropes made of Dyneema are made of 20 braids and cover a breaking load of 12 or 20 t. With their minimal stretch, they are ideal for static crown securing. For technical reasons, Dyneema hollow ropes do not have breakage indicator threads.
To install the crown safety device, please observe the relevant installation instructions, safety regulations, controls and liability exclusions for material / legal defects by GEFA Fabritz GmbH
As an aid you need: splice awl, special adhesive tape, special scissors. Lashing straps prevent the loop tape from slipping off smooth branches and stems. Please refrain from introducing foreign material into the hollow rope. This can lead to weak points in the canopy protection and to a reduction in the breaking force.
GEFA hollow ropes are all braided plastic ropes without a rope core. The tube shape facilitates the splicing process with which the connection is made.
• Braided plastic ropes without a rope core • Lightweight and durable • Stable connections via splice for maximum security • Higher initial breaking strength due to the number of fibers and the type of braiding • Made in Germany • Different expansion variants • Breakage identification thread for early detection • Special protective hose GEFAprotect®
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As an early warning system, break indicator threads are integrated into the GEFA webbing straps and hollow ropes (except Dyneema). They tear at about 80% of the maximum breaking force. In the contrasting white color, they give a clearly visible signal during the annual condition assessment of built-in crown safety systems. Incidentally, torn break indicator threads do not affect the breaking strength. Indicator threads that are not torn do not release you from the obligation to monitor. Even if there are still no breakage threads, we recommend, based on the current state of knowledge, replacing the GEFA crown safety device after eight years.
• Hollow ropes made of polyester (PES) 2/4/7/8/10 t, green tracer thread • Hollow ropes made of polyamide (PA) 2/4/7/8/10 t, blue identification thread • Hollow ropes made from the high-tech fiber Dyneema 12/20 t without tracer • 2/4 t available on 100 meter spools • 7/8/10/12 t available on 50 m spools • 20 t Dyneema rope by the meter or on a 25 m spool • Dyneema ropes of 12 and 20 t suitable for static securing
Safety is the top priority: GEFA webbing straps provide a safe and tree-friendly complete solution for securing the treetops in the load areas 2t, 4t, 7t and 10t. Highly UV- and weather-resistant, these crown securing systems represent an efficient, safe and tree-friendly solution. As sold by the meter, the easy-to-use straps are also financially interesting for those who are changing or starting out. Their longevity has been scientifically proven. All GEFA straps are provided with a break indicator thread.
The belt straps are closed with high-quality, galvanized buckles. We deliver our belts with standard buckles for 2-4 t. We also have special buckles that, in combination, cover even higher load ranges.
• Polyester (PES) belts with breaking strength 2 - 10 t for static security • Polyamide (PA) belts with breaking strength 4 - 7 t for dynamic securing • For static or dynamic backup • 8 year warranty
• PES elongation maximum 5%, can be used as static protection from 2 - 10 t • Elongation PA maximum 12%, can be used as dynamic securing from 4 - 7 t • Wide continuous thread to distinguish PES & PA • Black break indicator threads 4 - 7 t webbing • Meter markings for precise cutting to length • Highly UV and weather resistant • On practical 50 or 100 m spools • No additional cambium protection necessary
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Pressure distribution and protection against rubbing play a major role not only for the tree itself, but also for the lifespan of the canopy. That is why we accompany our range of crown securing systems with a wide range of protective tubes, pressure-distributing friction protection and loop tapes. With the pressure-distributing protective hose GEFAprotect® for 10 t hollow rope connections, we even offer an alternative to loop straps in the upper load range. The GEFA loop tapes are based on the corresponding CE guidelines and GS-tested. Special labels on the side show breaking strength, length and year of manufacture quickly.
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A splice is the break-proof, permanent, non-detachable connection of ropes through a certain type of interlacing. In principle, when splicing braided ropes, the end of the rope is pushed back through the hollow space of the rope over a certain length. The resulting connection gets its strength from the fact that the cavity contracts under load and holds the cable end inside.
Our splicing tools are made of solid aluminum and have a thread for screwing in the hollow cable ends. Available in three sizes.
The special buckles made of galvanized steel make the installation of the crown safety even more flexible, efficient and stable. In addition to the standard buckles for 2-4 t available in the set, you get three-bar buckles for 7, 8 and 10 t. Perfectly rounded for smooth use. This creates permanent connections.
As a rule, attempts are made to use forks when securing in the crown area. If this is not possible, lashing straps can be pulled in between the hose and the strap and attached to the branch or trunk. This prevents the belt from slipping. With the integrated expansion element, our lashing straps largely prevent ingrowth.
With the year identification, the visual inspection of the treetop safety device is made even easier: The installation age is determined at a glance using the blue / gray annual colors established on the market. The hose, separated to approx. 10 cm, can be used universally for belt straps and hollow ropes. The hose is delivered with a roll length of 5 m.
Makes work easier: Our special fabric tape for taping the hollow rope ends, black, weatherproof, reinforced, on a 50 m roll.
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• As part of the road safety obligation, private tree owners are also obliged to carry out regular checks. While municipalities and municipalities have to appoint an expert for this, a visual inspection is sufficient for private individuals and property managers. Only when clearly visible damage is found does a specialist need to be consulted.
• While all trees bind CO2, this effect is particularly sustainable with old trees. They store the climate toxin in their wood and thus remove it from the atmosphere in the long term. Preserving established trees makes double sense.
When installing crown safety systems, the relevant safety regulations - especially those of the responsible trade association - must be observed. The systems of GEFA Produkte Fabritz GmbH correspond at least to the current ZTV tree care, according to which crown safety systems and their parts must be functional for at least eight years; in some cases they exceed these requirements. The current edition of the set of rules is available from the FLL (Forschungsgesellschaft Landschaftsentwicklung Landschaftsbau e.V.) in Bonn.
According to the current state of knowledge, we recommend replacing the belts and hollow ropes after 8 years, because the crown securing systems are subject to a wide variety of external influences (e.g. UV radiation, moisture, air pollution, etc.). Therefore, no material / defect claim can be derived from the replacement recommendation. In accordance with our terms and conditions, the statutory liability for material and defects applies.
GEFA Fabritz crown bracing systems provide support for vulnerable crown sections, preventing property damage and personal injury. The installation of these systems is non-invasive, preserving the tree’s natural structure. The extensive product range offers tested safety at the highest technical standard.
GEFA Fabritz crown bracing provides support for crown parts at risk of breaking, preventing property damage and injuries. The installation of the systems is done without harming the tree, preserving its natural shape. Installation and inspection of crown bracing systems require high expertise and knowledge of arborists and materials. The ZTV tree care guidelines provide assistance in this regard.
GEFA offers an extensive range of different crown bracing systems for various applications, both dynamic and static, ZTV-compliant, with appropriate test certificates and results from weathering tests.
Securing break-prone branches is not only a requirement due to traffic safety obligations, but the installation of such systems also offers a more sustainable alternative to the cuts that would otherwise be necessary. GEFA crown bracings are no exception and can of course be returned to us and recycled. Since 2024, our 4t classic version has also been available made from 100% recycled yarns.
GEFA hollow ropes are available up to 10 t breaking strength (measured linearly), with different elongations and a break indicator thread. All of these ropes are suitable for dynamic bracing (both the classic and the stretchable versions). If static bracing up to 10 t is required, one must either use strap band solutions or dimension the hollow rope bracing in such a way that the maximum elongation of the system is under 5% under expected forces. GEFA hollow ropes made from Dyneema with 12 t and 20 t breaking strength meet even higher requirements.
Advantages:
The majority of our hollow rope and strap systems are equipped with break indicator threads. These threads break at about 80% of the maximum breaking strength, providing an additional advantage for visual inspections and condition assessments.
Additionally, all loop straps are GS-certified. A reliable seal and a strong argument for arborists and installers.
| Breaking Strength | Diameter | Braid | Length / m |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Tons | 12 mm | 16-ply | 100 |
| 4 Tons | 18 mm | 12-ply | 100 |
| 7 Tons | 24 mm | 12-ply | 50 |
| 8 Tons | 26 mm | 16-ply | 50 |
| 10 Tons | 30 mm | 20-ply | 50 |
| Tensile Strength | Diameter | Braiding | Length / m |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 tons | 12 mm | 16-strand | 100 |
| 4 tons | 16 mm | 12-strand | 100 |
| 7 tons | 22 mm | 12-strand | 50 |
| 8 tons | 26 mm | 16-strand | 50 |
| 10 tons | 30 mm | 20-strand | 50 |
Specifications:
| Material | Polyester | Polyamide | Dyneema |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raw material in... | classic GEFA hollow rope systems | more stretchable GEFA hollow rope systems | GEFA Dyneema hollow rope systems |
| Specific weight | 1.38 kg / dm³ | 1.14 kg / dm³ | 0.96 kg / dm³ |
| Strength loss due to moisture | 0 % | 5 - 10 % | 0 % |
| Water absorption | 0.5 - 2 % | 1 - 7 % | 0.5 - 2 % |
| Light resistance | very good | good | good |
| Abrasion resistance | very good | very good | Abrasion resistance |
*This table shows generally known reference and experience values for the raw materials we use, such as polyester, polyamide, and Dyneema, in an excerpt and exemplary manner.
GEFA hollow ropes have been thoroughly tested by two renowned institutions in the industry. The weathering test for the new hollow ropes was conducted by TÜV Rheinland according to DIN EN ISO 4892-3, test report 5451005/1K, dated 15.05.2015. This corresponds to outdoor weathering with a rainfall of at least 8 years. The breakage load tests, before and after the weathering test, were each carried out by Germanischer Lloyd.
The result is clear: The breakage load reduction for polyester ropes was a maximum of 28.2%, and for polyamide ropes, it was a maximum of 26.5%. Therefore, the tested hollow ropes from GEFA Fabritz GmbH products meet the recommendations of the current ZTV Tree Care 2017! As part of quality assurance, in 2018, we subjected the 2 t and 4 t (polyester) strap variants to a weathering test. This was to ensure that the requirements and recommendations of the ZTV Tree Care are met and that customers can use a safe quality product with confidence. The weathering test for the straps was conducted according to DIN EN ISO 4892-3. This corresponds to outdoor weathering with rainfall for at least 8 years.
In addition to the strap systems, we also subjected the new, stretchable 8 t variant of the hollow rope product range to a weathering test. The tests show that both the tested straps and the hollow rope meet the ZTV standards.
GEFA sets standards with its hollow ropes for crown bracing.
Old trees, especially in urban areas, have become even more important in the wake of climate change than they were 30 years ago. Preserving their natural form while ensuring public safety is the focus of tree care. As a leading provider of crown bracing systems, GEFA has been a pioneer in quality control, safety, and durability of its various solutions. Now, GEFA is once again setting new standards for durability and sustainability with its hollow ropes. All ZTV-compliant solutions (with 2, 4, and 8 t breaking strength) have undergone intensive climate chamber testing in recent months.
Weathering of fiber ropes based on DIN EN 4892-3.
During testing, the hollow ropes were examined according to DIN EN ISO 4892-3 "Plastics – Artificial Exposure or Weathering in Devices."
In the corresponding test device, the ropes were exposed to weathering under the following conditions: During the subsequent tensile strength test, the weathered piece was placed in the free clamping length position and tested in accordance with DIN EN ISO 2307 "Fiber Ropes – Determination of Certain Physical and Mechanical Properties." The ropes were spliced with an eye on both ends and examined. The result: Even after simulated 10-year weathering, the dynamic ropes made of polyester and polyamide still exceed the required breaking strengths. This means these crown bracing systems can remain in the tree for more than the 8 years required by ZTV, provided that regular tree inspections do not indicate the need for replacement.
GEFA will gladly provide the corresponding test reports upon request.
GEFA is taking the next step in sustainability with its hollow ropes and presents the first crown bracing rope made from recycled polyester. Developed in collaboration with our long-standing partner Liros, it has, of course, passed all tests and weathering trials. The braid features GRS-certified R-PET yarn—high-strength recycled fibers made entirely from PET bottles. Each ton of recycled PET reduces CO₂ emissions by 1.5 to 2 tons, resulting in approximately 70% less CO₂ compared to conventional polyester. Initially, this solution is available as a 4t "classic variant" for dynamic bracing, without break or material indicator threads, allowing for even purer recycling. The new rope itself is also recyclable and can be returned to us if needed.
Strap securing systems offer a simple, cost-effective, and efficient method for crown security. GEFA relies on wide straps and high-quality galvanized steel buckles. At GEFA, you will find not only the classic strap buckle systems with lower elongation for static connections, capable of handling 2 t, 4 t, 7 t, 8 t, and 10 t, but also more stretchable variants with 4 t and 7 t breaking strength for dynamic connections.
Specifications
Product Features:
PES elongation max. 5%, used for static securing from 2 - 10 t. PA elongation max. 12%, used for dynamic securing from 4 - 7 t. Wide continuous thread for distinguishing PES & PA. Black break indicator threads for 4 - 7 t straps. Meter markings for precise cutting. Highly UV and weather-resistant. Available on practical 50- or 100-m spools.
As part of quality assurance and the documentation of the long-term performance of crown securing systems, GEFA Fabritz had two of their strap systems tested. The 4 t systems were installed 10 and 15 years ago by a company from the Lower Rhine region. These secured a four-crowned hornbeam and a black locust tree, which had too much of a tilt towards the neighboring property. The result: both straps still exhibit significantly more than 4 t break strength! During the removal of the systems, visual inspection showed that the straps were not mechanically damaged, but only slightly faded and covered with algae.
The test according to DIN EN 12195-2 in a certified facility showed that the 10-year-old strap had a break strength of more than 5.3 t. This corresponds to an average decrease in break strength of less than 1% per year. The 15-year-old securing system broke at about 4.4 tons of load, which corresponds to an annual decrease in break strength of around 1.5%.
A splice is the unbreakable, permanent connection of ropes through a specific method of interweaving. In principle, when splicing braided ropes, the rope end is pushed back through the rope’s hollow space for a certain length. The connection formed this way gains its strength because the hollow space contracts under load and holds the rope end inside firmly. Our splicing tools are made of solid aluminum and feature a thread for screwing in the hollow rope ends.
Pressure distribution and friction protection play a central role in the lifespan of crown securing and the protection of the tree. Our range includes a wide selection of protective hoses, pressure-distributing friction protection, and loop bands. The GEFAprotect® protective hose for 10-ton hollow rope connections is an alternative to loop bands in the upper load range. Our bands are equipped with side labels that display the breaking strength, length, and year of manufacture.
Belt securing systems provide a simple, affordable, and effective way to secure tree crowns. GEFA relies on wide straps and high-quality, galvanized steel buckles. The special buckles made from galvanized steel make the installation of the crown security even more flexible, efficient, and load-bearing. In addition to the standard buckles for 2-4 tons available in the set, you can also get triple-stepped buckles for 7, 8, and 10 tons. Perfectly rounded for friction-free use. This ensures durable connections.
With the GEFA year identification, the visual inspection of crown securing is made easier: The installation age is immediately identifiable using the market-established year colors. The tube, cut to approximately 10 centimeters, is universally applicable for GEFA Fabritz webbing and hollow ropes. The tube is supplied with a roll length of 5 meters. The tube, cut to approximately 10 centimeters, can be applied to both webbing and hollow ropes, making it universally usable.
Christoph Pösken | Specialist in Arboriculture / Consultant for Tree Care & Restoration
As a tree care expert, Christoph is your go-to contact for all matters related to "Trees and Construction Sites." Reach out to him for advice and questions about trunk protection and root care. He looks forward to connecting with you and sharing valuable practical tips.
+49 (0) 2151 / 49 47 81
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