Groundcell is one of the most effective means to prevent soil erosion and protect tree roots on your property. Providing a durable, permeable structure in which pockets of soil can be secured, it supports plant growth while evenly distributing weight from above. Making it ideal for use on driveways, slopes, and embankments. But for it to do its job properly, you need to get the installation right. So, what do you need to know?
How to Properly Install Groundcell
Whether you’re using Groundcell to protect tree roots or prevent soil erosion, the installation process is broadly similar.
1. Prepare the surface
Before you can install Groundcell, you have to fully prepare the surface. That means clearing the area you are planning to lay the mesh. Removing all vegetation as well as rocks and other debris. And filling any holes with sharp sand in order to level the surface. If you are installing Groundcell to protect tree roots, don’t be tempted to compact the surface as you may cause the damage you’re trying to avoid.
2. Install a base layer
Once you’ve cleared the surface, you’ll need to put a base layer of Earthworx NW1000 Geotextile Fabric in place. This should cover the entire area in which you’re planning to lay the Groundcell, as well as overlapping the edges by about 30cm. Make sure that you also overlap any joins.
3. Place your first panel
When you place your first Groundcell panel you need to work from an edge. Ensure that you’ve taken into account the 30cm overlap, then secure the first edge with a Groundcell pin. Extend the remaining panel to its full length, then making sure that it’s flat and in the correct position, use another Groundcell pin to secure the far edge. Then do the same across the width of the panel.
4. Check tension and spacing
Before fully securing the edges of your Groundcell panel, check the tension of the cells and that they are fully extended. Once you’re happy, secure the edges with a further six to eight pins, depending on the size of the panel.
5. Lay your remaining panels
To lay your remaining panels, you simply have to repeat steps three and four until the desired area is covered. Where your panels meet, it’s good practice to staple adjoining cells together to provide additional stability.
6. Lay your sub-base
Once your Groundcell is in place, you will need to lay a sub-base. This can be a range of materials and will vary depending upon your intended use. If you’re seeking an environmentally-friendly approach to tree root protection for a driveway, we’d recommend a Type 4/20mm, such as pure crushed limestone, granite, basalt, or gritstone. To prevent soil erosion or support an embankment, you can fill your cells with top soil. In both cases, you will need to overfill your cells by at least 25mm and lightly compact it by hand. If you are using Groundcell in a garden, you can also sow grass seed or small plants in the cells.
One of the best features of Groundcell is the ease of installation. In most cases, you won’t need any specialised equipment beyond the panels and pins. Depending on the size of the installation, you may be able to complete it yourself within a day. Or, if DIY is not for you, the Beauxfort team is here to help!
Find out more about Grouncell landscape systems from Beauxfort.
