Geocells for forest roads and temporary roads
The construction and modernization of forest roads require solutions capable of withstanding extreme dynamic loads. Heavy forestry equipment, such as forwarders, harvesters, and truck-trailer combinations (HDS), exerts tremendous pressure on the ground, leading to rutting and damage to the road surface.
The GLOB-KRATA geocells is a proven geotechnical solution that forms a semi-rigid slab to reinforce the soil, eliminating the problem of rutting and reducing aggregate costs by as much as 30–50%.
How does a geocells work on a forest road?
- The three-dimensional honeycomb structure prevents the aggregate from shifting sideways.
- It is recommended to use geotextile under the geogrid to prevent the subbase from mixing with the soft, natural forest soil.
Two-layer construction of a forest road using geocells
| Parameter / Element | Traditional Solution | Solution with GLOB-KRATA |
| Base course thickness | 40–60 cm of continuous aggregate | 15–25 cm (geocells + a smaller amount of aggregate) |
| Rut resistance | Low (requires frequent profiling) | Very high (aggregate closed in cells) |
| Ability to use local materials | No (expensive imported aggregate required) | Yes (option to backfill with local gravel/soil) |
| Material Transportation Costs | High (large volume) | Reduction of several dozen percent |
Instructions for Installing Geocells on a Forest Road
- Trenching and site preparation: Leveling and root removal.
- Laying geotextile: Isolating the soft forest floor.
- Stretching and Anchoring Geogrids: Use steel or plastic anchors.
- Filling and Compaction: Filling the cells with crushed aggregate or local material, followed by compaction using a roller or compactor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the geocells withstand the pressure of a timber-hauling truck (HDS)?
- Yes, geocells distribute point loads over a much larger area, reducing the pressure on the native soil.
What is the recommended height of geocells for forest roads? - For access roads for heavy equipment, geocells with a height of 10 cm or 15 cm are most commonly used, depending on the bearing capacity of the native soil.
What is the best material to backfill a geocells with in a forest? - Crushed aggregate (e.g., crushed stone, 0–31.5 mm) provides the most durable results, but for smaller budgets, a mixture of screenings or recycled crushed stone can be used.
Find out more about our geocells !
By using geocells, cellular confinement systems, and geogrids, surfaces become more durable and resistant to erosion, while the soil maintains stability even under heavy loads
Do you need a stable base for access roads?
We are a Polish manufacturer of durable Geocells – ideal for roads, driveways and surfaces for heavy equipment.
Why choose GLOB-KRATA:
- The highest quality material – a geocell made of high-density polyethylene, resistant to weather conditions and UV radiation.
- Versatile applications – from forest roads to temporary access roads, maneuvering areas or embankment stabilization.
- Easy assembly and flexibility – various sizes, quick and easy assembly in all terrain conditions.
- A solution for companies and individual clients – professional advice and support for every project.
- Experience and professionalism– a proven product from a reputable manufacturer.
This product demonstrates superior performance compared to others in its class.