Tree roots and underground cables and pipelines: in public spaces they often come into conflict. In many municipalities this leads to damage, repair costs and frustration. What if green and infrastructure did not have to get in each other’s way?
A soil-cell system is an underground structure that provides trees in hard-surfaced areas with an optimal tree-pit, equipped with root-growth space, aeration, irrigation, stability, nutrients and root-guidance. The structure supports the heaviest traffic loads, thereby preventing soil compaction and allowing roots to develop freely within the system.
The soil-cell system can be cleverly combined with underground utility services. One “gallery” of the system is allocated for use as a cable- and pipeline-duct. In that gallery the cables and pipelines are placed in a clear and accessible manner.
The space is then sealed with a sandwich-construction, the outer side reinforced with combigrid. That provides additional stability and protection against ground-pressure.
The modular build-up of the system makes it possible to open the structure relatively easily afterwards — for inspection or maintenance for example. That makes the work more efficient, safer and better for the tree, because you don’t have to dig through the existing root-mass. In addition, the cable-duct does not need to be back-filled with soil, resulting in less excavation and quicker, less disruptive works.
Thus the soil-cell system not only serves as a tree-pit for trees, but also as an integrated solution for underground infrastructure. A way to save space and structurally prevent root conflicts with cables and pipelines.
Check out our brochures, technical datasheets and installation instructions:
Or contact us directly:
