Construction projects often require the installation of temporary access roads to facilitate the movement of heavy machinery and equipment. However, these roads can pose a significant threat to the health and stability of nearby trees, particularly their root systems. To mitigate this impact and provide effective tree root protection, incorporating non-woven geotextiles, a biaxial geogrid, and a 200mm geocell is the optimal solution. This approach ensures minimal disruption to the tree roots while still allowing for efficient construction operations.
Non-woven geotextiles serve as the first line of defense in protecting tree roots during the construction of a temporary access road. These geotextiles act as a permeable barrier, allowing water and nutrients to pass through while preventing soil compaction and damage to the root zone. By installing a layer of non-woven geotextiles directly on the ground surface, the tree roots remain undisturbed and retain their ability to absorb essential resources.
In addition to non-woven geotextiles, incorporating a biaxial geogrid further enhances the tree root protection system. A biaxial geogrid provides uniform distribution in its load-bearing capacity. By distributing the weight of construction vehicles and equipment more evenly, the geogrid minimizes soil compaction and reduces the potential for root damage. This reinforcement ensures that the access road remains stable and durable while safeguarding the underlying tree roots.
To provide optimal protection, integrating a 200mm geocell into the tree root preservation system is crucial. A geocell is a three-dimensional honeycomb-like structure made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) material. It forms a stable and load-bearing foundation that supports the access road while creating an open space for tree roots to grow. The geocell’s interconnected cells facilitate root growth by allowing air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the soil, promoting a healthy root system.
The combined implementation of non-woven geotextiles, a biaxial geogrid, and a 200mm geocell offers several advantages. Firstly, it protects the root systems from the detrimental effects of soil compaction, allowing trees to thrive even during and after construction. Moreover, this approach minimizes the need for excavation, significantly reducing the potential disruption to the natural landscape. The installation of this system is quick and straightforward, ensuring a seamless integration into the construction process.
When implementing this tree root protection system, it is crucial to follow the appropriate installation guidelines. Start by preparing the ground surface, removing any debris or sharp objects that may damage the geotextiles or geogrid. Lay down a layer of non-woven geotextiles, ensuring complete coverage of the intended root zone. Then, place the biaxial geogrid on top, securely anchoring it to the ground. Finally, install the 200mm geocell, filling it with soil to create a stable and permeable foundation for the access road.
In conclusion, incorporating non-woven geotextiles, a biaxial geogrid, and a 200mm geocell is the best approach for providing no-dig tree root protection during the installation of a temporary access road. By implementing this system, construction projects can proceed without compromising the health and stability of nearby trees. This solution ensures that the root systems remain intact, allowing trees to flourish while meeting the requirements of the construction site.
P.S Whilst the image above shows the use of a lightweight quad bike facilitating the use of much heavier vehicles in this situation is very much the objective.
