![]() The use of planters in this manner should be subject to a strict structural engineering review and assessment of your project. Mascot Engineering GRC Planters are commonly used on the perimeter of buildings in place of a balustrade or railing. AS3958 covers ceramic tiles, however it makes specific reference to the need for expansion joints in tiling which is transferable to planters. From what we’ve experienced, a gap of no less than 20mm between the planters is common, though all builds vary. Whether a structure is reinforced concrete or prestressed concrete, all are designed with an allowance for deflection, and this should be considered when designing and installing planters. This advice should consider the type of structure and size of span… coordinating the construction tolerance and slab deflection. The size of the gap will differ from project to project and professional advice on your project should be sought. Planters can’t be positioned over expansion joints and there must be a gap between any two planters. Positioning planters on a suspended slab should be considered with professional advice as all structures are subject to short- and long-term deflection. Specialist advice will be required if installing in clay soils. The external of the planter should be coated in a liquid membrane in addition to drainage holes and at least a 50mm sand bed beneath the planter for drainage. Mascot Engineering GRC Planters can be installed in ground if required. Failure to install on a level surface will void the product warranty. ![]() Uneven ground contact may cause stress cracks in the planters, therefore it’s imperative that the planter should not rock at all once placed and appropriate action should be taken when installing to ensure the base is evenly supported. Levelling and PlacementĮven weight distribution is key for planters due to the weight of the contents. For longer lasting finish, ensure the product is clean, an appropriate undercoat is applied as well as a waterproof coating internally. Paints and waterproofing sealants can be applied, we recommend only using products that are suitable for concrete or masonry in an outdoor environment. GRC is a concrete product – air holes and imperfections are common. Finish & Paint ApplicationĪll Mascot Engineering planters are supplied in a raw Glass Reinforced Concrete (GRC) state with no applied finishes. Use of these materials void any warranty on our product. NOTE: Clay, sand or top soil should not be used as a substitute to podium potting mix… these materials can be too dense and cause drainage issues which not only effect the planters but the plants also. Plants selected should be chosen bearing in mind current and future root systems and species requirements based on the planter capacity. These soils are lightened to facilitate drainage and are great for your plants and planters. There are a range of premium mixes (podium mix) and soils on the market that have been developed specifically for planters/containers. The use of automated irrigation should be considered carefully and adjusted regularly at first to ensure adequate time for the plants root to take in the water. For larger planters we recommend the installation of a drainage cell covered with the geofabric – please refer to manufactures installation details. Failure to provide adequate drainage may void the product warranty. Once drainage holes are made, they should be covered with a thin layer of geofabric filter wrap to prevent blocking – whilst still allowing water egress. We recommend holes be a minimum of 25mm in diameter (multiple per planter) and that they be placed more than 100mm from the sides or ends. The planters are supplied without drainage holes to give installers the ultimate in flexibility to place them in a location that suits the installation. Due to the nature of the material, drainage holes can be made simply on site with a handheld drill in any location and size. ![]() Mascot GRC Planters come without drainage holes and rely on installers placing drainage on site. ![]() Whilst the soil on the surface may appear dry, the soil at the bottom may be saturated and this excessive water will place pressure on the planter and can cause cracking (in addition to root rot). A healthy root system ensures plants thrive in their environment, so water needs to drain freely and sufficient air in the soil is needed. The importance of effective drainage in plantersĮffective drainage is critical for all landscaping activity, not just the planter but also for the plant. ![]()
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