GeoCells Cost-Benefit Analysis for Paver Installations
GeoCells are cellular confinement systems (CCS) often used in soil stabilization and reinforcement. Although created by the U.S. Military more than half a century ago (for creating makeshift aircraft landing strips), they have recently become increasingly popular in paver installations for pool decks, patios, driveways, walkways, and other landscaping projects. While this technology provides numerous structural and environmental benefits, understanding the cost implications compared to traditional paver installation methods is key to making an informed decision. Below is a detailed cost-benefit analysis of using GeoCells for paver installation.
GeoCells Cost-Benefit Analysis for Paver Installations
Material Costs
- GeoCells: The primary material, GeoCells, is more expensive than traditional gravel base or sand installations. GeoCells typically range from $.75 to $2.75 per square foot (or more depending on the quality, cell depth, and brand).
- Base Material (Infill): GeoCells use less base material such as gravel or sand because of their ability to stabilize the material within the cells.
- Pavers: GeoCells do not affect standard paver costs. Depending on the paver type (concrete, stone, brick), prices range from $3 to $15 per square foot.
Total Material Cost Comparison:
- GeoCell-based installation: $.75–$2.75 per sq. ft. (GeoCells) + reduced base material cost.
- Traditional installation: Standard paver base materials (sand/gravel, etc.) are cheaper. However, significantly more fill/gravel material would be required, consequently leading to higher excavation/disposal costs on top of the added volume of fill required and the associated delivery costs (plus increased carbon footprint).
Installation Labor Costs
- Installation Time: GeoCells can reduce installation time because the cells are pre-configured and easily expanded on-site, requiring less base material compaction and labor. However, the layout and securing of the cells may require labor that includes a team leader possessing a basic knowledge of the nuance involved with securing and filling the grids. This basic knowledge can simply be learned from watching a few YouTube videos.
- Traditional Methods: More labor is typically required to dig deeper foundations and compact many layers of gravel or sand. It is usually recommended, depending on the soil conditions below the installation, that 4-inch deep “layers” or “lifts” are individually spread and then compacted, before adding more layers…usually three to six layers or more (it is usually recommended to have at least 18 inches of sub-base in any freeze/thaw prone climates. The labor-intensive nature of an installation needing so many layers/lifts increases costs greatly, well beyond what the initial investment of the grids would have been.
Labor Cost Comparison:
- GeoCell-based installation: a conservative estimate of a 20% reduction in labor time can be realized, compared to traditional methods.
- Traditional installation: Higher labor costs due to excavation depth needed (typically double), on top of gravel spreading and compaction requirements.
Equipment Costs
- GeoCells: The need for heavy machinery is reduced because less infill material is required. For smaller installations, standard equipment is sufficient.
- Traditional Methods: Excavators, compactors, and additional machinery for moving and leveling large amounts of base material add to the cost of traditional methods.
Equipment Cost Comparison:
- GeoCell-based installation: Lower equipment usage and rental costs
- Traditional installation: Higher equipment and fuel costs due to larger excavation and material movement
Maintenance Costs
- GeoCells: GeoCells provide long-term stability and reduce the likelihood of rutting, shifting, or settling of pavers, which can lower long-term maintenance costs.
- Traditional Methods: Without the structural support provided by GeoCells, traditional methods may require more frequent maintenance, including re-leveling pavers or filling gaps that form over time.
Maintenance Cost Comparison:
- GeoCell-based installation: Lower maintenance costs over the lifetime of the pavers
- Traditional installation: Higher potential for repairs and adjustments
Benefits of Using GeoCells in Paver Installation
1. Improved Load-Bearing Capacity
GeoCells distribute loads more evenly across the surface, reducing the pressure on the underlying soil and base layers. This leads to better durability under heavy traffic, making GeoCells especially suitable for driveways or areas where vehicles are parked. Traditional methods require deeper foundations or thicker gravel layers to achieve the same load-bearing capacity.
2. Reduced Material Use
GeoCells significantly reduce the amount of gravel or aggregate needed for the base layer because they confine and stabilize the infill material. This is both environmentally friendly and cost-efficient, as it cuts down on material transportation and disposal.
3. Eco-Friendliness
GeoCells contribute to environmentally sustainable construction. By reducing the need for extensive base materials and excavation, GeoCells help minimize the environmental footprint. In addition, they allow for better water drainage, which helps manage stormwater runoff and prevents erosion. Traditional methods can result in poor drainage, leading to water accumulation and paver damage over time.
4. Longevity and Stability
The cellular structure of GeoCells minimizes soil movement and shifting, resulting in a more stable paver installation over time. This is particularly beneficial in areas prone to freeze-thaw cycles, erosion, or soft soils. Traditional installations are more prone to shifting, cracking, or sinking, especially in less stable soil conditions.
5. Flexibility in Application
GeoCells can be used in a variety of applications, including sloped surfaces, which are often challenging for traditional methods. Their flexibility allows for use in more complex landscape designs and challenging terrain without compromising on stability or aesthetics.
We believe the use of GeoCells and the Cost-Benefit Analysis for Paver Installations is your opportunity to bring a new level of “fail-proof” technology to your projects. It is a huge benefit for the contractor to differentiate their companies’ capabilities by offering a Guaranteed No Fail Installation via their implementation of Geocell Technology, something that adds immense value and often leads to “closing the deal” on the spot! GeoCells are particularly beneficial for eco-conscious homeowners or designers looking for durability and sustainability.