Guide to Purchasing Tree Grates
Urban trees have more than an aesthetic function in urban landscaping. They also improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and eliminating pollutants from the air. Urban developers also integrate trees into the landscaping to prevent soil erosion and manage stormwater, among other functions.
For easy integration of trees into urban landscapes, landscapers use tree grates. These installations protect trees’ roots against physical damage by foot traffic. With a tree grate in place, the roots can grow unhindered to guarantee better tree health.
These landscape installations also ease maintenance of the areas around urban trees, manage erosion and stormwater. The perforations on the grate cover allow water to seep through to nourish the tree roots.
Decorative grate systems also blend of form and function and add to the beauty of the urban landscape. It’s easy to find grates that easily blend into the existing landscape by choosing the right color, design, or material.
As urban landscapers continue discovering the importance of tree grating, the demand for these fittings continues to rise. You have many products on the market and finding the right one for your landscape can overwhelm you. Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice:
Consider your Landscaping Needs
Before you purchase a tree grate, take time to evaluate your landscaping needs to determine the best size, design, and material to suit you. Create a shortlist of the things you want your landscaping grates to meet. For instance, do you need decorative grates, or are you more interested in protecting the roots?
Consider the Grating Materials
You have multiple tree grate materials to choose from which can suit your needs. Some of the products on the market include:
Cast Iron Tree Grates
Cast-iron tree grates are sturdy, reliable and durable. This material is resistant to corrosion from natural elements. However, they’re prone to theft and it’s costly to replace them. They are ideal for heavy traffic areas. One drawback is the high initial and replacement cost.
Concrete Tree Grates
This is an alternative to cast iron material and it’s durable, easily customizable and resistant to corrosion. Concrete grates easily blend with the environment and are eco-friendly. They work well for heavy traffic areas and are more affordable than metal grates.
Plastic Grates
This is a versatile, affordable and lightweight solution for protecting trees in areas with light foot traffic. Plastic grates are easy to customize into different sizes, patterns, and sizes.
Natural Stone Tree Grates
If you want a tree grating system that perfectly combines form and function, then natural stone is your first choice. Reinforced tree grates from Jonite are an excellent example of this product. This is one of the best materials for landscaping grates because it easily blends with the natural environment.
It’s also easy to customize natural stone grates with multiple natural colors available. From ivory white, granite grey, steel grey, ash grey, terracotta red, teak brown to charcoal black, you have a wide range of beautiful colors to choose.
Natural stone grates create a conducive environment for trees due to their low heat absorption properties. The roots can thrive under this tree cover, and you can easily expand the grating as the trees grow.
Engineered Stone Grating
This is a material that mimics natural stone and has become popular for the manufacture of tree grates. It’s a durable, eco-friendly and more affordable tree grate system.
Stainless Steel Grates
This is a sleek and chic option for grating but it comes at a higher cost. Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant, durable and heavyweight. It can work in areas where you want to maintain a clean contemporary landscape.
Consider Maintenance
When buying a grate for your tree, consider the ease and cost of maintaining the cover. The best products are self-cleaning and don’t require special maintenance. Natural stone, concrete and engineered stone are examples of low-maintenance grating systems. These are also easy to expand and you can always restore them to their former glory with simple cleaning procedure.
Look For a Reputable Brand
Ask around for referrals and recommendations when buying any type of grates for your landscape. Read reviews and testimonials from other property owners and consult your landscaper for the best advice. But these landscaping features from a brand with a solid reputation in the industry.
Consider Safety Compliance/ High Standards
When shopping for tree grating, always look for the highest safety standards and certifications. Landscaping products that are ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant are safe for your use. With such safety-compliant grates, you don’t have to worry about accidents which can lead to costly lawsuits.
Wrapping Up
Urban trees not only add beauty to your landscape but also guarantee your health and wellbeing. Installing tree grates to cover the roots is the easiest way to safeguard your green investment. With these tips, you can now find custom grating covers that perfectly suit your landscaping needs.