Deeproot UB-36-2 Root Barrier: An Overview

What Is UB-36-2 & When Should You Use It?

UB-36-2 belongs to Deeproot’s Universal Barrier line. Its extra depth (36") is a smart choice where root pressure can be significant—think urban streetscapes, parking lots, medians, transit stops, and utility corridors—or when working near more aggressive tree species. Use it to reduce slab heaving, protect curb lines, and create predictable root paths beneath pavements.

Key Benefits (Technical & Plain-English)

• Deep protection (36"): Redirects roots to depth before they reach slabs, curbs, or utilities—less lifting and cracking.
• Fast assembly: Zipper joiners slide panels together for long, continuous runs without loose clips.
• Stable in soil: Ground-lock tabs key into native material to resist movement and frost cycles.
• Clean finished grade: Reinforced top edge resists surface overgrowth and helps maintain a straight line.
• Sustainable build: UV-stabilized, recycled polypropylene is tough and long-lasting.

Common Applications

• Sidewalks & shared-use paths: Mitigate trip hazards and slab displacement.
• Curb & gutter lines: Maintain curb alignment and pavement edges.
• Parking lots & medians: Keep roots from bulging asphalt and concrete.
• Utilities & light rail corridors: Guide roots away from conduits and trackbed structures.

Quick Takeoff: How Many Panels Do You Need?

1. Measure the linear footage of the edge you’re protecting.
2. Divide by 2 (each panel covers 24" = 2 ft).
3. Round up and add 5–10% for cuts, corners, and waste.

Example: 180 ft curb run ÷ 2 ft per panel = 90 panels. Add 10% (9 panels) ⇒ order about 99 panels.

Installation Overview (Field-Friendly)

Below is a practical sequence used by contractors. Always follow the manufacturer’s specifications and local code/ arborist guidance for species selection and any root pruning.

1. Layout & locate: Mark the run; call in utility locates where required.
2. Trench: Excavate to accommodate the 36" panel plus a small cover at the top (keep the panel face plumb).
3. Orient panels: Place with ribs facing the tree side. Engage ground-lock tabs into firm native soil.
4. Join continuously: Slide each new panel into the zipper track of the previous one; keep the top edges aligned and straight.
5. Backfill & compact: Compact in lifts to support the barrier, checking line and grade as you go.
6. Finish: Bring final grade to slightly cover or align with the reinforced top edge per plan.

Case Study — City Streetscape Retrofit, Downtown Business District

Challenge: A downtown block with mature street trees was experiencing repeated curb displacement and sidewalk lifting (up to 1.5"). Grinding and patching offered only short-term relief, and a full streetscape demo would be costly and disruptive for storefronts.

Approach: Working with an ISA-Certified Arborist, the contractor performed targeted root pruning at conflict points, then installed a continuous UB-36-2 barrier parallel to the curb line for 280 linear feet. Panels were aligned to maintain a smooth grade, joined via the zipper track, and set with ground-lock tabs engaged in native subgrade.

Results (12-month follow-up): No measurable curb movement and no new sidewalk uplift at the treated segment. The city estimated a 30–40% cost savings versus full curb/sidewalk replacement and reported fewer trip-hazard service calls.

FAQ

Why choose 36" depth over 12" or 24"?

Use 36" when you need deeper deflection for streets, heavy foot/vehicle areas, or where species are known for aggressive, shallow root systems that can impact pavements.

Can UB-36-2 be installed in curves?

Yes. The modular format allows arcs and angles. Keep joints tight and the ribbed face oriented toward the tree side.

Will barriers harm trees?

Barriers redirect roots down and under structures; paired with professional root-pruning practices, they help protect both infrastructure and tree health.

Spec Snapshot

• Panel size: 36" H × 24" W (≈ 2 linear feet per panel).
• Features: 90° ribs, zipper joiners, ground-lock tabs, reinforced top edge, UV-stabilized.
• Material: Recycled polypropylene.
• Typical uses: Sidewalks, curbs, parking lots, medians, and utility protection zones.