Uncontrolled root growth is increasingly leading to damage to road and pavement surfaces as well as cables and pipelines, especially in inner-city areas. The special root protection and root guidance systems of the GEFAguard® series offer solutions here.
Guide and steer the roots in the desired direction through GEFA systems. This on the one hand protects the root itself and on the other hand prevents consequential damage.
We're here to support you.
Specialist Dipl.-Ing. Alexander Magerl
Responsible for dealer and key account support as well as for the GEFA partners abroad. Your contact should you require solutions to problems arising when planting in urban locations.
In order to prevent roots from spreading in undesired directions, optimized systems made of high-quality plastic are used. A fundamental distinction must be made between root protection and root guidance. Root-free zones can be created with the GEFAguard® HDPE and GEFAguard® PP root protection systems. So z. B. Cables and wires are protected from tree roots and vertical and horizontal root growth prevented. If the area that can be penetrated by roots is severely restricted and the installation of a protection system for the tree has negative consequences (e.g. flower pot effect), the GEFAguard® TRG root guide systems with vertical ribs are recommended. These direct the roots downwards. At the lower end they follow their natural growth path.
When to root protection
Root protection can only be used if there is a sufficiently large area that can be penetrated by roots. The distance between the protection and the tree should be at least 2 m (depending on the diameter of the mature tree). Both GEFAguard® systems can be used for most types of wood. For rhizome formers such as bamboo, GEFAguard® HDPE should be used around the planting.
When to take the root
The installation of a root guidance system is recommended for distances less than 2 m. To protect z. B. the road pavements, the systems offer a high level of security and help to avoid high care and maintenance costs in the future.
The following points must be observed:
- Depth of the area to be protected
- 20 cm minimum distance between the highest groundwater level and the underside of the system
- Let the root protection protrude 1 to 2 cm above the soil layer
- Compress the substructure of the outer sides
- Humic substances in the lower planting pit area
GEFAguard® root protection membranes enable the infrastructure to be protected from uncontrolled root growth. In addition, the roots themselves are protected because they might have to be cut without using the root protection.
Further advantages are a longer service life of the trees, the avoidance of cost-intensive renovations of the road surfaces and pavements that might otherwise be necessary.
GEFAguard® HDPE - Very strong types
With a wall thickness of 2 mm, GEFAguard® HDPE is one of the more robust root protection sheets available on the market. At the same time, the special plastic (HDPE) impresses with its high density and long service life of around 100 years. GEFAguard® HDPE is suitable for every type of root and every type of tree - also for use around bamboo plantings. In most cases, however, the tracks are used linearly. A minimum distance of about 2 m from the trunk should be maintained. This distance is necessary because the protective walls only hold back the roots and do not guide them. If the environment does not allow such installation, you should use the GEFAguard® TRG root guide panels.
It's all about the connection
To ensure permanent root protection, a tight connection should be made using splints. Cut the required number of meters (plus 10 cm overlap on each side) to length, score with a sharp knife and bend to the other side. Then overlap the ends of the root protection membrane, put on the rails and use the mandrel and cordless screwdriver to make holes for the screws in the appropriate places. Fasten the rails with the screws provided.
GEFAguard® HDPE meets the requirements of DVGW GW125.
We recommend GEFAguard® to protect:
Cables, pipes, sewers, foundations, road structures, gardens, sports fields, parks and playgrounds and the trees themselves.
GEFAguard® HDPE product selection
GEFAguard® HDPE 50 = (12.5 m²)
Root protection sheet, 2 mm, 50 cm high
GEFAguard® HDPE 75 = (18.75 m²)
Root protection sheet, 2 mm, 75 cm high
GEFAguard® HDPE 100 = (25 m²)
Root protection sheet, 2 mm, 100 cm high
GEFAguard® HDPE 150 = (37.5 m²)
Root protection sheet, 2 mm, 150 cm high
GEFAguard® PP
Flexibility and strong protection are particularly important when planting near cables or wires.
PP for more flexibility
With 360 g/m² and a double-sided coating, the root barrier GEFAguard® PP offers the very highest quality in the fleece sector. Due to the flexibility, the installation options for the protective fleece are even more varied and easier to implement.
GEFAguard® PP is suitable for every tree species. (For bamboo, however, we recommend the HDPE variant.) The minimum distance to the trunk should also be around 2 m here. Linear built-in membranes are the norm, similar to the stronger HDPE counterparts.
GEFAguard® PP impresses with:
- easy and quick processing
- Tree root strength / GRK 4
- Waterproof
- Flexibility and strength
- 100% recyclability
- good chemical resistance
- Protection of cables, lines, foundations
Prevention helps
The effect of GEFAguard® PP can also be optimized by selecting tree species that are not so prone to root pressure. The choice of an appropriate substrate and location contributes to the positive development of root growth. The use of pearl humus as a steering aid to the deeper layers of soil also prevents undesirable growth directions. Finally, the tree itself benefits from the prophylactic use of the root protection membranes. Without the use of such a protection system, roots may eventually need to be topped.
The installation
Installing GEFAguard® PP is quick and easy. Cut off the required length (plus the necessary overlap, at least 30 cm). Closed systems or extensions can be made using buckling and gluing.
To do this, bend one end inwards and the other end outwards. Push the two bent ends into each other and the Fix-adhesive tape in three places stick together (make sure that the locations are as dry and clean as possible). Finished!
360g / m² mm heavy, double-sided coated fleece, available on a 50 m roll.
- GEFAguard® PP 50 = (25 m²), root protection cloth, 360 g / m², 50 cm high
- GEFAguard® PP 75 = (37.5 m²), root protection cloth, 360 g / m², 75 cm high
- GEFAguard® PP 100 = (50 m²), root protection membrane, 360 g / m², 100 cm high
- GEFAguard® PP 130 = (65 m²), root protection cloth, 360 g / m², 130 cm high
- GEFAguard® PP 150 = (75 m²), root protection cloth, 360 g / m², 150 cm high
GEFAguard® TRG
Root guidance systems were developed to prevent road surfaces from breaking up and being damaged by tree roots.
GEFAguard® TRG is made from the copolymer polypropylene. The guide ribs help guide tree roots deeper into the ground.
Protect infrastructure
GEFAguard® TRG can be used wherever a conventional root protection system reaches its limits (e.g. when the distance to the base of the trunk is less than 2 m). The double upper edge protects against overgrown roots and rizomes,
is permanently resilient and enables smooth and clean processing.
The principle
Young tree roots grow and hit the profiled partition. The guide ribs direct the roots vertically downwards (without a guide the roots would continue to circle along the wall). Once you get to the bottom of the wall, you can
grow freely again and form a stable anchorage in the ground.
GEFAguard® TRG impresses with:
- easy and quick processing
- Tree root strength
- Waterproofness
- Flexibility and strength
- 100% recyclability
- good chemical resistance
GEFAguard® TRG can be installed flexibly in many situations. The types 90, 105 and 120 also offer protection for supply and disposal lines and cables thanks to their greater installation depth.
GEFAguard® TRG, 60 cm wide, approx. 2 mm thick panels with a flexural strength of 155,000 PSI, only available in complete boxes.
TRG corner elements
With the new GEFAguard® TRG corner elements, the mostly angular plant pits can be fully utilized. The 90 ° TRG corner elements are available to match the TRG 45 and TRG 60 systems. The angles are extendable on both sides with
TRG panels connected and therefore adjustable in length from 48 cm to 85 cm.
Uncontrolled root growth in urban areas can cause significant damage to roads, sidewalks, cables, and pipelines. The specialized root protection and root guidance systems of the GEFAguard® range provide highly effective solutions. GEFAguard® directs roots in the desired direction, protecting them and preventing future damage to surrounding infrastructure.
To prevent roots from spreading in unwanted directions, optimized systems made of high-quality plastic are used. A distinction must be made between root protection and root guidance. With the GEFAguard® HDPE and GEFAguard® PP root protection systems, root-free zones can be created. For example, cables and pipelines can be protected from tree roots, preventing both vertical and horizontal root growth.
If the rootable area is severely limited and installing a protection system would negatively impact the tree (e.g., flowerpot effect), the GEFAguard® TRG root guidance systems with vertical ribs are recommended. These guide the roots downward, allowing them to follow their natural growth path at the lower planting pit level.
If a sufficiently large rootable zone is available, the distance between the protection system and the tree should be at least 2 meters. Both GEFAguard® systems can be used for most tree species. For rhizome-forming plants like bamboo, GEFAguard® HDPE should be used.
GEFAguard® Root Protection
WHEN TO USE ROOT GUIDANCE
The installation of a GEFAguard® root guidance system is recommended for distances of less than 2 meters. To protect structures such as road pavements, the GEFAguard® systems provide high security and help prevent high maintenance and upkeep costs in the future.
VORAUSSETZUNGEN
Depth of the area to be protected
Humic substances in the lower planting pit area
Let root protection extend 1 to 2 cm above the soil layer
Loosens compacted soils
Compact the substructure of the outer sides
Minimum of 20 cm between groundwater level and system underside
GEFAguard® HDPE
TO PROTECT THE INFASTRUCTURE
GEFAguard® HDPE
PROTECTS INFRASTRUCTURE
GEFAguard® root protection membranes allow for the protection of infrastructure from uncontrolled root growth. Additionally, the roots themselves are protected, as without root protection, they may need to be cut off. Other advantages include a longer lifespan for trees and the avoidance of potentially costly repairs to road surfaces and sidewalks.
With a wall thickness of 2 mm, GEFAguard® HDPE is one of the more robust root protection membranes available on the market. At the same time, the special plastic (HDPE) is known for its high density and a long lifespan of around 100 years. GEFAguard® HDPE is suitable for all types of roots and tree species, including use around bamboo plantings. In most cases, the membranes are installed linearly. A minimum distance of about 2 meters from the trunk should be maintained. This distance is necessary because the protective walls merely hold the roots back, not guide them. If the surrounding area does not allow for such an installation, it is recommended to use the root guidance panels GEFAguard® TRG.
GEFAguard® HDPE
MEETS DVGW GW125
To ensure permanent root protection, a tight connection should be made using rails. Measure the required length, score it with a sharp knife, and bend it to the other side. Then, overlap the ends of the root protection membrane, place the rails, and use a punch and a power drill to make holes at the appropriate spots. Finally, secure the rails with the provided screws.
We recommend using GEFAguard® to protect:
Cables & pipes
Sewage systems
Foundations and roadbeds
Gardens, sports fields, parks, and playgrounds
GEFAguard® HDPE
STRONG PROTECTION WALL
GEFAguard® HDPE is a durable protective wall with a wall thickness of 2 mm. It is used as a barrier between trees and areas to be protected, such as pavements, channels, pipes, etc.
Features
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
100% recyclable
Flexible and durable
Resistant to dirt and microorganisms
Good chemical resistance
Installation: clean, quick, and easy
Specification HDPE
Einsatz: Undurchdringbar für alle Baum- und Bambuswurzeln.
Flexibility and strong protection are especially necessary for plantings near cables or pipes. The GEFAguard® PP root protection mat, with a weight of 360 g/m² and a double-sided coating, offers the highest quality in the nonwoven fabric range. Its flexibility makes installation options more varied and easier to implement. GEFAguard® PP is suitable for all tree species (although we recommend the HDPE variant for bamboo). The minimum distance from the trunk should also be approximately 2 m. Linear installation of the mats is typical, similar to the stronger HDPE variants.
GEFAguard® PP stands out with:
Tree root resistance / GRK 4
100% recyclability
Protection of cables, pipes, and foundations
GEFAguard® PP
PREVENTION HELPS
The effectiveness of GEFAguard® PP can also be optimized by selecting tree species that are less prone to root pressure. Choosing an appropriate substrate and location also contributes to the positive development of root growth. Using perlite as a directional aid to deeper soil layers also prevents unwanted growth directions. Ultimately, the tree itself benefits from the prophylactic use of root protection mats. Without such a protection system, roots might eventually need to be pruned.
Installation
Installing GEFAguard® PP is easy and quick. Cut the required length. Closed systems or extensions can be created using bending techniques and adhesive bonding. To do this, bend one end inward and the other end outward. Slide the two bent ends into each other and secure them with adhesive tape at three points.
GEFAguard® PP
FLEXIBLE PROTECTION WALL
GEFAguard® PP is a protective barrier used as a separation between trees and areas to be protected, such as paving, channels, pipelines, etc.
Features
Polypropylene (PP), nonwoven fabric 360 g/m²
Double-sided coated
100% recyclable
Lightweight and flexible
Good chemical resistance
Easy and quick installation
Waterproof
Specification PP
Application: For most root types (not suitable for bamboo).
Root guiding systems were developed to prevent the breaking and damage of road surfaces caused by tree roots. GEFAguard® TRG is made from the copolymer polypropylene. The guiding ribs help direct tree roots deeper into the soil.
GEFAguard® TRG can be used wherever conventional root protection systems reach their limits (e.g., when the distance to the tree base is less than 2 meters). The double upper edge protects against overgrowing roots and rhizomes, is permanently durable, and allows for smooth and clean processing.
GEFAguard® TRG stands out with:
Simple and quick installation
Tree root resistance
Flexibility and strength
100% recyclability
Good chemical resistance
GEFAguard® TRG
PROTECTS THE ROOT
Young tree roots grow and encounter the profiled partition wall. The guiding ribs direct the roots vertically downwards (without guidance, the roots would continue to spiral along the wall). Once at the bottom of the wall, they can grow freely again and establish stable anchorage in the soil. GEFAguard® TRG can be flexibly installed in many situations. The 90, 105, and 120 types provide increased installation depth, offering protection for supply and drainage lines as well as cables.
GEFAguard® TRG CORNER ELEMENT
With the GEFAguard® TRG corner elements, the typically square planting pits can be fully utilized. The 90° TRG corner elements are available to fit the TRG 45 and TRG 60 systems. The angles are connected on both sides with extendable TRG plates, making them adjustable in length from 48 cm to 85 cm.
GEFAguard® TRG
FLEXIBLE PROTECTION WALL
GEFAguard® TRG is a root guidance system with guide ribs that direct tree roots deeper into the soil. The 90° arrangement of the ribs prevents the roots from circling along the wall and choking the tree. This ensures the tree finds its direction, receives sufficient oxygen, and stability. Once the roots reach the bottom of the wall, they can grow horizontally again, securing the tree firmly in the soil.
Features
UV-resistant, flexible, and 100% recyclable
Form-molded
90° ribs guide tree roots downward
Resistant to root growth and microorganisms
Patented anchor prevents upward pressure from tree roots
Specification TRG
Use: For new plantings and also after root pruning to preserve already developed trees (with minimal distance to the tree).
Dipl.-Ing. Alexander Magerl| Großkundenbetreuung | Urbane Baumpflanzung
Der diplomierte Landschaftsbauer verantwortet die Fachbetreuung und planerische Entwicklung von Projekten im urbanen Umfeld. Er ist dabei Ihr Ansprechpartner rund um Lösungen für Baumpflanzungen.