Alternative Cast Iron Tree Grates

Permeable Tree Pit Surrounds

Trees bring a bit of life and greenery to urban landscapes, but providing a home for them can be tricky when they’re surrounded by concrete and paving slabs. The solution? Rockpave’s permeable tree pit surrounds are alternatives to cast iron tree grates that allow the tree pit to fit seamlessly into an urban environment while allowing the tree to receive water and nutrients. Rockpave is used to cap the top of tree pits closest to their roots and base for both curb appeal and the longevity of protection—while still allowing the trees to grow effortlessly.

For Both New and Existing Tree Pits

Rockpave can be used on either new or established trees. For new trees, we install an enlarged metal collar around the trunk of the tree to support and protect the initial growth stage. As the tree grows, it pushes the collar up, allowing this inner circle to be replaced with permeable tree pit surrounds. With mature trees we will pave right up to the base of the roots. Our process provides the room necessary for the roots to grow, all while maintaining a visibly appealing display.

A More Durable Option

Rockpave’s resin-bound paving is also a better alternative to using metal tree grates, which may need replacement or cause accidents. Metal grates are a potential hazard to the general public, as they’re more likely to trip unsuspecting walkers, often leading to city lawsuits. Rockpave’s permeable pavement lessens the chance for lawsuits against the city, while providing a safer environment to the community.

What Are Tree Pits?

Historically, tree pits have been nothing more than a hole in the ground—deep enough to accommodate the roots—with grille-type covers meant to protect the soil around a tree but still allow the tree access to moisture and air. While straightforward in theory, it can be costly and inefficient in practice. In fact, many modern tree pits don’t even nourish the trees they house. Instead, Rockpave uses permeable paving materials as alternatives to metal tree grates that allow water to drain down into the roots with ease, helping the tree get oxygen.

The Benefits of Resin-Bound Tree Pit Surrounds

The biggest benefits of choosing Rockpave resin-bound tree pit surrounds are that they’re very eco-friendly in addition to being incredibly effective. The permeability allowing water to return to the earth lessens the amount of water that simply runs off and flows into the sewer or pools in the street. The production of permeable paving materials is also less resource- and pollution-intensive than creating metal grilles that collect debris and eventually lift up, creating a tripping hazard.

Another benefit is that Rockpave tree pit surrounds are simply more aesthetically pleasing. Permeable paving materials look sleek, modern, and natural for the cleanest appearance possible. We also feature aggregate options in a variety of shapes and colors, allowing you to pick the exact type to suit your needs. If you’re interested in a quality alternative to cast iron tree grates, you’ve come to the right place. Contact us today with questions about your tree pit needs.