Gravel-Lok Blog

Photos from MANTS 2012

2012-01-12T10:48:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to share a few pics from our booth #2414 at the Mid Atlantic Nursery Trade Show in Baltimore MD. We'll be adding some more as they come in

CELL-TEK GEOSYNTHETICS / GRAVEL-LOK BOOTH #2414

GRAVEL-LOK AND ACCESSORIES ON DISPLAY

DEMONSTRATING GRAVEL-LOK'S POROSITY

GRAVEL-LOK STONE SAMPLES IN A VARIETY OF COLORS

NEW CUSTOM GRAVEL COLOR

MANTS 2012 tradeshow - Baltimore MD January 11-13

2012-01-09T08:09:00.000-08:00

Check us out this week at MANTS - Mid-Atlantic Nursery Tradeshow at the Baltimore Convention Center. We'll be at booth #2414 this Weds (1/11) - Fri (1/13). Stop by and say hello and check out Gravel-Lok aggregate bonding system along with Cell-Tek's LSG Series load support Grid.

Here are some pics from past tradeshows:

For more information about MANTS 2012 visit their website: http://www.mants.com/
and be sure to check the Cell-Tek / Gravel-Lok booth # 2414

Gravel-Lok Installer Spotlight

2011-11-08T08:34:00.000-08:00

Here is an e-mail we received from a Gravel-Lok Installer in Baltimore, MD. If you would like us to feature your company on our blog, send an e-mail and some pictures to robcee@celltekdirect.com or hit us up on Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/gravellok

>>>

Hi Gravel-Lok,My name is Anthony Lozupone and I own a company called Custom Stoneworks & Design Inc. located in Baltimore MD. We have been serving the Baltimore City, Baltimore Metro, and Washington Metro areas for 18 years.

We started using Gravel Lok about two years ago or so. We love the product for flower beds, city tree pits, off of paver jobs, erosion control areas, under decks, around swimming pools, and for pavements. We have learned so much about the installation process from representatives from your company and hands on experience. We are looking forward to using this product forever and want to thank you so much for everything Gravel-Lok has done for us. Here is some photos of a few jobs.

Thank you,Anthony Lozupone
President www.stoneworksdesign.com

Gravel-Lok Job Pics: French Drain & Walkway

2011-11-04T10:44:00.000-07:00

Gravel-Lok and Stone Walkway

Pavers with Gravel-Lok French Drain

Gravel-Lok is going to the dogs!

2011-10-27T09:45:00.000-07:00

Need a dog pad for your backyard kennel and concrete is not an option? Here are some exerpts and pictures from a recent thread over at the German Shepherd Dog Forums by TechieDog in which he talks about using Gravel-Lok for his kennel project:

"I recently did a small pad out of pea stone with (LSG SERIES) stabilizer. I really wanted to use concrete but because of where it is, would have been expensive and a lot of work. It came out pretty well though. I used some seperator material first and then a mesh material that creates a very strong\solid base -though thats probably not necessary. It drains really well, like pouring water into a bottomless pit and it is very firm!

In the past I had a kennel area with only pea stone. It got sloppy when it rained and over time needed to be re-dug and filled with fresh stone. I found it to be a bit of a pain.

I had concrete at another house and it was great but I just can't do it here. I investigated every option to do concrete here but it was just unrealistic. I investigated all of the deckings etc. and just really did not want to go that route.

I ended up using something called Gravel-Lok. I was able to pick-up Gravel-Lok locally plus I liked dealing with them. They were very helpful.

I put it in only about a month or so ago. The new dog has not arrived yet but there is no way those stones are coming loose! I got down on the ground with a hammer to try to kick out one that was sticking up a little. I had to smash it and the stone broke before the bonding gave way. I used 3/8 pea stone. I didn't find anything finer but I think the stuff works better with larger material. You should ask them about whatever you are considering using. Also, the better you compact/tamp it, the smoother it will be.

As far as toxicity of the stabilizer, there is no concern, you can read the detailed MSDS on their website. I also spoke with them on the phone about it. Not worried.

Here is what it looks like. Sorry for the lousy phone pic. with the shadows and bright sun, will have to do for now. I am currently putting a fence up behind it and then I will raise the kennel."

Note: This discussion took place a few months ago and we are hoping TechieDog will send us an update with photos of the completed project and his new pup! Stay tuned for updates.

UPDATE: Here is a pic of the completed kennel

STEP it up with Gravel-Lok

2011-09-23T09:57:00.000-07:00

Here are some before and after pics of a beautiful set of Gravel-Lok steps installed by Restoration Collaborative LLC in New Jersey!

Be sure to check out our new website for Gravel-Lok information, pics, CAD details and more!!

The Blank Canvas Comes Alive!

2011-09-20T11:54:00.000-07:00

Recently we received this e-mail and photos from a homeowner in Georgia who used our LSG Series load support grid and Gravel-Lok porous stone pavement system to beautify their backyard.

Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2011 12:14 PM
Subject: Back Yard - The Blank Canvas Comes Alive

HiJulie:

Wantedyou to know that we completed our backyard project using your cell-tek andgravel lok products. They worked GREAT and we are VERY pleased with theresults. Your website instructions and very helpful and informativecustomer service made our dealings with you a pleasure from start tofinish. All of us who worked on the project were novices (no experiencewith this type of work). Your instructions helped us step-by-step tosuccess.

EVERYONEwho has seen our walkway including the professionals who installed thesynthetic turf, neighbors and friends have been amazed and delighted. Oneneighbor is going to order some of your gravel-lok product soon to complete astorage area for her trash cans. I think the synthetic turf folks will becontacting you as well. Best of all, our boys (two 80 pound labmixes) love it!!

Thankyou again. It was a pleasure doing business with you and we wish you muchcontinued success.

NancyC.

Atlanta,GA

Gravel-Lok approved by Montgomery County

2011-07-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

Members of the Stormwater Management New Products and Materials Committee for Montgomery County MD carefully reviewed Gravel-Lok and approved it for use as a permeable pavement.

Many homeowners in Montgomery County are seeking options for permeable pavements in order to comply with the County's Stormwater Management guidelines and earn tax credits.

These eco-conscious citizens realize the benefits to the broad environment as well as specifically to the Chesapeake Bay watershed which has become polluted by stormwater runoff from metropolitan areas such as Montgomery County. Lets face it, our children and future generations deserve clean water.

Penn Stone Installing Gravel-Lok at Show

2011-04-14T09:52:00.000-07:00

This is re-posted from Penn Stone's blog.
Click Here to Check It Out!

Installing Gravel-Lok at the Lancaster Spring Home Show

This week we're setting up at the BIA of Lancaster County's Spring Home Show. We're featuring one of our favorite new products, Gravel-Lok aggregate bonding system, in this year's booth. Gravel-Lok allows you to use the decorative gravel of your choice for a gravel path, patio or driveway without the mess and nuisance of loose stones. It's also ideal for a porous pavement application as a tool for good stormwater management. Take a look at this videa (first in a series) showing the process of mixing and installing it in our booth.

Gravel-Lok French Drain System

2011-03-09T10:10:00.000-08:00

Gravel-Lok Porous Stone Paving is the ultimate solution for creating french drainage systems. The bonded stone surface is decorative and functional, eliminating loose messy stones. Using Cell-Tek's Load Support Grid confines open graded aggregates adding strength to the Gravel-Lok surface. The surface has a porosity which can handle up to 20 gallons per square foot every minute. Create natural stone riverbeds which function as a drainage system.

( Borrowed from our friends at Life Time Pavers. Click here for more French Drain pictures! )

Stick this in your QR reader !

2011-03-09T09:52:00.000-08:00

(hint: It will magically take you to Gravel-Lok.com)

POROUS paving with the beauty of natural stone

2011-03-03T07:34:00.000-08:00

The Gravel-Lok system is an ideal solution for municipalities, parks and other government porous paving projects as well as stone scaping applications in residential areas. Maintaining the strength of traditional paving methods, nothing is sacrificed while creating an economical, decorative and functional pavement system.

Anything You Ever Wanted To Know About Gravel-Lok

2011-02-28T09:52:00.001-08:00

Download this PDF web brochure to learn more about Gravel-Lok. Info includes specifications, installation methods, color and stone selections, resin bound paving, multiple paving systems, LSG Series load support grid, features, projects, pour metods and a bunch of great Gravel-Lok job photos.

CLICK HERE FOR GRAVEL-LOK BROCHURE (PDF)

Another Satisfied Customer

2011-01-31T14:53:00.000-08:00

New Gravel-Lok Applicator Backpacks

2010-12-28T12:48:00.000-08:00

Cell-Tek Geosynthetics has been working vigorously on the installation process of the Gravel-Lok system. We are pleased to announce our new Gravel-Lok backpacks and gravity wands which will be available this spring. The backpack comfortably holds the container of Gravel-Lok which then allows the liquid to feed to the wand applicator by forces of gravity. The final design of the gravity wand is being approved and will be available when the first break of warm weather begins a new season of Gravel-loking.

Gravel-Lok Demo: Community First Fund Bank, Lancaster PA

2010-11-18T09:56:00.000-08:00

Gravel-Lok and Penn Stone join forces to improve storm water management in Lancaster.

Installation: Coated concrete with gravel-lok.

2 ½” of ¼” Royal Blend gravel was overlaid on 5” of concrete at the bank entrance. Then Gravel-Lok was applied to bond the aggregate.

Gravel-Lok user testimonial

2010-10-05T21:23:00.000-07:00

Hi,

We purchased the Gravel-Lok about a month or so ago, and it worked out really well. We redid our pathway to the front door entrance. It looks even better than we expected. The amber cast works great with our overall landscape tone and sets off nicely against the green lawn and stone house.

Thank you so much for an awesome product and solution.

Best,
Grace H.

New York Botanical Garden: Gravel-Lok Demonstration

2010-10-04T08:49:00.000-07:00

Gravel-Lok Pedestrian Sidewalk -
New York Botanical Gardens, Bronx, NY

Installed porous Gravel-Lok pavement with two different sizes of Royal Blend decorative stone. They used a non-woven geotextile fabric, Cell-Tek's LSG-4, 4" Load Support Stabilizer Grid, infill of clean, washed stones for permeability and installed strips of 1/2" and 3/4" size Royal Blend decorative stone on top of the system before applying Gravel-Lok.

Gravel-Lok is great for Xeriscaping!

2010-09-29T17:27:00.000-07:00

(via eartheasy.com - solutions for sustainable living)

Xeriscaping refers to the conservation of water through creative landscaping.

Originally developed for drought-afflicted areas, the principles of xeriscape today have an ever broadening appeal. With water now considered an expensive and limited resource, all landscaping projects, residential or commercial, can benefit from this alternative.

Xeriscapes do not have a single look - almost any landscaping style can be achieved. The principles can be applied to all or part of a yard, in any geographic region of North America.

Xeriscape Benefits

Saves Water. For most of North America, over 50% of residential water used is applied to landscape and lawns. Xeriscape can reduce landscape water use by 50 - 75%.

Less Maintenance. Aside from occasional pruning and weeding, maintenance is minimal. Watering requirements are low, and can be met with simple irrigation systems.

No Fertilizers or Pesticides. Using plants native to your area will eliminate the need for chemical supplements. Sufficient nutrients are provided by healthy organic soil.

Improves Property Value. A good Xeriscape can raise property values which more than offset the cost of installation. Protect your landscaping investment by drought-proofing it.

Pollution Free. Fossil fuel consumption from gas mowers is minimized or eliminated with minimal turf areas. Small turf areas can be maintained with a reel mower.

Provides Wildlife Habitat. Use of native plants, shrubs and trees offer a familiar and varied habitat for local wildlife.
_________
CHECK OUT http://eartheasy.com/grow_xeriscape.htm FOR MORE XERISCAPE INFO

Gravel-Lok Demo - Penn Stone - Lancaster PA

2010-09-27T09:38:00.000-07:00

Authorized Gravel-Lok Dealer, Penn Stone in Lancaster, PA, demonstrated how Gravel-Lok can lock up loose stones. They mixed Gravel-Lok liquid together with Royal Blend decorative gravel and troweled it out over an existing base course of CR6 (crush and run). This bonds the stones and creates a durable porous pavement.

FOLLOW GRAVEL-LOK ON TWITTER: @Gravel-Lok - CLICK HERE

C&S Companies install Gravel-Lok pathway in Syracuse NY

2010-09-24T11:39:00.000-07:00

C&S Companies, ranked as one of the nation's leading engineering and architectural design firms, recently hired Anthony DeMarco & Sons to install a 2000 sf Gravel-Lok pathway at their campus headquarters in Syracuse, NY. C&S has been in business for 42 years, has 8 offices throughout the US, and employs over 400 people.

They learned about Gravel-Lok through Paragon Supply in Syracuse, NY, an authorized dealer of Gravel-Lok C&S prides themselves on advancing creative ideas and practical solutions and found Gravel-Lok to be appealing for its "green" feature of permeability combined with the beautiful look of natural stone.

The pathway meanders through their campus and past a sediment pond. They used a non-woven geotextile fabric, Cell-Tek's 3" cell depth recycled Load Support Grid (LSG-3), filled the cells with #57 clean, washed, angular stone, and added a layer of 1/2" size decorative stone before applying the Gravel-Lok liquid to bond the stones together.

Commercial Use of Gravel-Lok for Bike Rack Pavement

2010-09-16T09:38:00.000-07:00

Mahan Rykiel Associates, Inc., Landscape Architects, wanted to promote the eco-friendly "Ride Your Bike To Work" program at their Baltimore, Maryland offices. In keeping with their green endeavors, they chose to install Cell-Tek's Gravel-Lok system to achieve a 'green' porous pavement, a popular trend in cities everywhere to prevent the harmful effects of stormwater runoff on our nation's waterways. The system included a non-woven geotextile fabric, Cell-Tek's LSG-2, recycled 2" Load Support Grid filled with #57 clean, washed angular stone, a layer of 1/4" size Royal Blend decorative stones and Gravel-Lok to bond the stones together.

Before Applying Gravel-Lok

After Applying Gravel-Lok

Letter of Appreciation

Gravel-Lok Photo Galleries

2010-09-07T14:18:00.000-07:00

Gravel-Lok Stone Scaping Gallery: http://picasaweb.google.com/Gravellok/StoneScaping#

Gravel-Lok Jobs & Projects Gallery: http://picasaweb.google.com/Gravellok/GravelLokProjects#

Letters of Appreciation

2010-07-26T08:47:00.000-07:00

Call a Qualified Gravel-Lok Contractor Today!

2010-07-26T08:25:00.000-07:00

Stone Scaping with Gravel-Lok

2010-06-26T17:42:00.000-07:00

Making Nature Better

2010-06-25T12:10:00.000-07:00

Gravel-Lok News: Stone Scaping with Gravel-Lok

2010-06-22T07:48:00.000-07:00

ELIMINATE WEEDS, ZERO MAINTENANCE, NO MORE MULCHING. STONES ARE BONDED IN PLACE AND WILL NOT MOVE!

Go Here for Gravel-Lok News: http://www.gravel-lok.com/email/email_stonescape.html

Businesses strive for eco-friendliness

2010-06-22T07:41:00.000-07:00

When environmentalist and lawyer Clay Henderson began touting eco-friendly ideas more than a decade ago, he said he was "swimming upstream."
Now such efforts by businesses to be greener are part of the norm.
"There clearly seems to be a realization that the more you conserve, the more it will save you money," said Henderson.
Henderson said he is glad to see so many businesses helping to save the environment. "You are seeing more and more green businesses," he said, while acknowledging an improved bottom line is at the heart of the movement

By VALERIE WHITNEY - Daytona Beach News Journal. Go Here for full story: http://www.news-journalonline.com/news/local/east-volusia/2010/06/22/businesses-striving-for-eco-friendliness.html

Gravel-Lok Stone Scaping

2010-06-10T14:34:00.000-07:00

These recent job pics were sent to us by Chris Cameron in Wood River IL who said, "Check out the before and after pics. Great product!"

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Job Corps students show off pavement for Earth Week

2010-04-21T10:07:00.000-07:00

LONG BEACH - Job Corps students celebrated Earth Week Tuesday by demonstrating the advantages of using permeable pavement instead of concrete to keep polluted runoff from reaching the sea. The display at the Long Beach Job Corps Center was part of a week-long attempt to raise awareness of the environment, sustainability and climate change.

Earth Day is Thursday and Earth Week continues through Sunday.

Water hitting the permeable pavement sinks through the layers, returning to the ground instead of running off into storm drains and carrying bacteria or trash to rivers and oceans, Meredith Reynolds, Long Beach Sustainability Coordinator, said.

By Pamela Hale-Burns. Long Beach Press-Telegram. pam.hale@presstelegram.com, 562-499-1476
Go Here for full story: http://www.presstelegram.com/news/ci_14922898

Gravel-Lok News April 2010

2010-04-16T11:48:00.000-07:00

check out the latest version of our Gravel-Lok bi-weekly newsletter.
GO HERE: http://www.gravel-lok.com/email/email_0410.html

Gravel-Lok Design Options

2010-04-09T11:42:00.000-07:00

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD - GRAVEL-LOK DESIGN OPTIONS (pdf)

You and storm water: A major source of pollution

2010-04-08T09:51:00.000-07:00

via McClatchy Newspapers; By Terri Bennett

How would you feel if you knew that you and your neighbors are the biggest source of water pollution in the U.S.? Well, it's true.
It's generally not intentional, but each day we all do things that add up to one big problem.

Storm water runoff is just what it sounds like: water from rain or snowmelt that flows over the ground. Impervious surfaces like driveways, streets and parking lots prevent storm water from being absorbed into the ground, contributing to the flow of runoff.

Storm water flows downhill to the nearest storm drain. What most people don't understand is that anything that enters a storm drain flows untreated into a nearby creek, river or lake. These rivers and lakes are the source of drinking water to 85 percent of Americans and a valued resource for swimming, boating or fishing for all of us.

FOR FULL ARTICLE GO HERE: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/homegarden/2011528718_drains.html

Rainwater-absorbing lot designed to curb runoff

2010-03-24T09:58:00.000-07:00

The new lot will have a drainage system that will absorb storm water and cut down on the amount of runoff into a nearby lake.
The work is part of a federally funded project aimed at improving water quality in the small Iroquois Lake in the southeast part of the park.
The Olmsted Conservancy received a $1.4 million grant from the Environmental Protection Agency to cover most of the work at Iroquois and some similar work to help Willow Pond at Cherokee Park. The money was secured by former U.S. Rep. Anne Northup while she was in Congress.
The expanded amphitheater parking lot at Iroquois is expected to be complete by early summer. The Cherokee project will be complete later this spring when the final native plants are added.

Story and photo By Charlie White • cwhite@courier-journal.com via Kentuckiana.com
Go here for full article: http://www.courier-journal.com/article/20100324/GREEN/3240335/Rainwater-absorbing+lot+designed+to+curb+runoff

Gravel-Lok Demo Days March & April 2010

2010-03-19T08:33:00.000-07:00

Gravel-Lok will be doing a demostration Thursday March 25 at the New Library - 3601 Eastern Ave in Baltimore MD with Custom Stoneworks & Design at 3pm. Call 877-470-9200 for more information.

Wednesday April 21, we will be holding a training session at our office in Crofton MD to learn more about Gravel-Lok and installation procedures. The session starts at 10:30am and lasts for about 2 hours . You are more than welcome to come join us as well as bring a coworker or friend to the event. Space is limited and filling up fast so if you are interested in attending RSVP now by calling 888-851-0051.

Coming Together for Clean Water - Stormwater Pollution

2010-03-18T11:06:00.000-07:00

"What, where, and how communities build will affect their residents’ lives including access to clean water. More pavement and non-porous surfaces mean less area where water can soak into the ground, where it recharges our water supplies and nurtures ecosystems. Stormwater that isn’t absorbed runs over these developed areas, picking up contaminants and sediments that eventually flow into rivers and streams."

Excerpt taken from the EPA's water blog/discussion forum. Go here for the full article: http://blog.epa.gov/waterforum/2010/03/topic-3-the-role-of-development/

'Building Your Green Home' panel discussion

2010-03-17T09:27:00.000-07:00

A four-bedroom, 4,200-square-foot home to be built later this year in Upper Makefield was designed to rest lightly on the land, starting with high-density cement-panel basement walls set in gravel.

The building will be constructed of structural insulated panels that minimize wood use and chemical off-gassing. It will have super-high-efficiency windows, ground source heat, a storm water cistern for irrigation, an upgraded septic system, native, drought-resistant landscaping instead of a lawn, pervious paving and durable fiber-cement siding that uses recycled wood.

Paving material that lets rainwater percolate into the ground is under consideration, whether in the form of pervious asphalt or manufactured paving stones.

Hartke says his Holicong-based architectural partnership found it difficult to find pervious asphalt to pave its own parking lot about seven years ago, but, he says, "Now, you can find a supplier. Almost all asphalt manufacturers can provide it."

Excerpts from "Show features 'Building Your Green Home' panel discussion" By: GWEN SHRIFT - Bucks County Courier Times. READ FULL ARTICLE at: http://www.phillyburbs.com/news/news_details/article/177/2010/march/16/in-the-air.html

Instructional: Build Your Own Gravity Wand

2010-03-12T18:18:00.001-08:00

Will the system stay permeable forever?

2010-02-25T13:45:00.000-08:00

As a permeable system the Gravel-Lok bonded pavement is full of voids which allow water to pass through. Like any other permeable pavement those same voids will eventually get clogged with dirt, dust, debris and this will reduce permeability over time . There are vacuum services specifically designed for porous pavements which are becoming increasingly popular. Recommended cleaning depends on site conditions and the amount of sediments the system is exposed to. Without maintenance, typical permeable systems become completely clogged within 5 - 7 years.

What type of maintenance can I expect with the Gravel-Lok pavement?

2010-02-25T13:44:00.000-08:00

Gravel-Lok is relatively maintenance-free and no annual treatment is necessary. If the system is being used for vehicular traffic some loose stones may occur depending on the type of stone used and degree of abuse. Typically, you can expect about 1% of stones to dislodge or become loose in about a 5 year period. If desired, a disturbed area can be treated with more Gravel-Lok.

Will snow plowing affect the pavement? What about salt?

2010-02-25T13:43:00.000-08:00

Snow plowing has the potential to damage the pavement but this can be minimized if you use a rubber blade on the plow and exercise caution. Obviously, the type of stones will make a difference too. Harder stones such as marble and granite will be more durable. Softer stones are going to be more vulnerable. A snowblower would be a safe machine to use. Additionally, it is completely safe to apply salt for melting ice and snow.

How does Gravel-Lok perform under freeze/thaw cycles?

2010-02-25T13:42:00.000-08:00

If installed properly, with adequate base materials that allow for drainage, Gravel-Lok will withstand freeze/thaw cycles. If freeze/thaw cycles are a concern then we suggest creating expansion joints (saw cut) at appropriate intervals.

What type of maintenance can I expect with the Gravel-Lok pavement?

2010-02-25T13:41:00.000-08:00

Gravel-Lok is designed to be maintenance-free and no annual treatment is necessary. If the system is being used for vehicular traffic some loose stones may occur depending on the type of stone used and degree of abuse. Typically, you can expect about 1% of stones to break off or become loose in about a 5 year period. If desired, a disturbed area can be treated with more Gravel-Lok.

How long will it last?

2010-02-25T13:39:00.000-08:00

If installed properly the Gravel-Lok pavement will have the same lifespan as other forms of pavement such as concrete or asphalt.

How strong is Gravel-Lok?

2010-02-25T13:34:00.000-08:00

Gravel-Lok is a system. The top layer of bonded aggregates has the structural integrity of asphalt. The key to any pavement surface is the foundation it is built on. Below the bonded aggregates is Cell Tek's Geocellular Confinement System which constrains open-graded aggregates. The passive resistance of the infilled cells prevents lateral movement and distributes the load over a wider area. The system also reduces the impact on the subgrade up to 28% while reducing the amount of base material required.

Leveling Stones with a Lawn Roller

2010-02-23T10:17:00.000-08:00

A lawn roller is the best solution for leveling out stones prior to installing the Gravel-Lok bonding agent. The roller flattens out the stones helping to create the smoothest surface possible.

Gravel-Lok Demo Days Rescheduled for March 3, 2010

2010-02-19T13:13:00.000-08:00

The Demo Day Scheduled for 2/24 has been RESCHEDULED for March 3rd, 2010 from 8-9:30am and 10:30am-12pm at the Cell-Tek office in Crofton MD. PLEASE call to RSVP and hold your spot. E-mail info@celltekdirect.com for RSVP, questions, directions, etc.

Gravel-Lok Demo Days

2010-02-03T06:48:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends,

This year we will be holding training sessions to learn more about our products and installation procedures. The sessions last for about 2 hours and provides an incredible opportunity to learn more about geosynthetics. You are more than welcome to come join us as well as bring a coworker or friend to the event. We look forward to working with you in the future and want to help make your projects better with the use of geosynthetics.

The Demo Day Scheduled for 2/24 has been RESCHEDULED for March 3rd, 2010 from 8-9:30am and 10:30am-12pm. PLEASE call to RSVP and hold your spot. E-mail info@celltekdirect.com

Cured Product: MSDS

2010-02-03T06:02:00.000-08:00

One of the primary concerns when placing permeable materials near plant life and over soil is the longterm safety of the product. Will the product leach into the ground? Is it carcinogenic? These are questions commonly asked by design professional when considering which product to use. On the Cell-Tek website you can find posted a copy of the Gravel-Lok MSDS (cured Product) report.

In the report you will discover that Gravel-Lok in its cured state becomes an inert substance meaning it becomes chemically inactive. The physical state is a solid which is not soluble in water. The cured product is stable and not reactive.

The toxicological findings show that it is not considered a carcinogen with the following agencies:
1. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)
2. National Toxicology Program (NTP)
3. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

VIDEO: Gravel vs Gravel-Lok

2010-02-03T05:55:00.000-08:00

Gravel-Lok (Sneak Peak Inside New Brochure)

2010-02-01T12:23:00.001-08:00

VIDEO: Ripping Up Gravel-Lok

2010-01-15T08:25:00.001-08:00

Building a Tradeshow Booth: Mants Show 2010

2010-01-12T14:08:00.000-08:00

This year for the Mants show we created a puzzle display layout. The reason for this when rectangular samples are laid out most people think that we are making block paving stones. We wanted to create an interesting design that poised the question: What is this?

It worked the audience found our display puzzling and attractive and was a huge hit at the Mants show in Baltimore, Maryland.

Step 1:

We projected on two sheets of plywood a puzzle layout. We traced the outline with a magic marker

Step 2:

The plywood was cut out into the puzzle shapes. The puzzle was then put back together and a 3 inch aluminum divider was put in place to separate the different aggregates used for each puzzle piece.

We were unable to get the puzzle pieces apart so we picked up the whole display with a fork lift and loaded it on a pick up truck and brought the whole unit to the tradeshow. Weighing in at 1600 lbs. it was quite a venture.

The Finished Tradeshow Booth

RIP: Tearing the booth apart

Gravel-Lok Walkway Road Test

2009-12-20T20:26:00.000-08:00

Recycled Glass mixed with Natural Stone

2009-12-19T19:59:00.000-08:00

Gravel-Lok: Recycled Glass

2009-12-19T19:56:00.000-08:00

AMBER

BLUE

BLACK

Recycled VHS Tape Cases (Gravel-Lok Samples)

2009-12-19T19:46:00.000-08:00

Cell-Tek Geosynthetics LLC. has discovered a new way to recycle when making their samples for their Gravel-Lok product line. The concept is reusing almost obsolete VHS tape cases. The process takes an outdated product and gives it new life with a new product.

New! Surface Stone Samples

2009-11-13T06:26:00.000-08:00

Royal Blend 3/8"

Delaware Valley 3/8"

Ocean Peeble

Pocono River

Tipple Red 3/8"

Recycled Brick Chips 3/8"

3/8" Koblenz Granite

Gravel-Lok Helps Feed the Trees

2009-11-09T17:42:00.000-08:00

12 Year Review

2009-11-09T17:38:00.000-08:00

The following pictures are from a project installed over 12 years ago. The wet look has vanished leaving the natural stone appearance. The system remains strong with no visible signs of weakening. There were no loose stones on the top surface and the system is performing the same as when it was first installed. Since the bonding agent creates a solid monolithic surface in some areas a few cracks were visible. It is recommended to install expansion joint cut into the system to allow additional movement from freeze-thaw cycles. After inspection there is no doubt the porous system will withstand another 12 years.

Gravel-Lok Driveways

2009-11-05T05:27:00.000-08:00

Gravel-Lok can also be utilized for driveway applications. Just like any pavement surface the system is only as good as the foundation it is built upon. When installing a Gravel-Lok driveway it is recommended to increase the depth of the cellular confinement system to a 3" (SG300 / EP300) or greater cell depth. This will allow for increased water storage as well as the increased strength required for low speed and low volume residential driving surfaces. The approximate structural number SN when using the SG300 / EP300 is around 2.0. When using Cell-Tek's SG400 Stabilizer Grid the system will achieve a SN of 3.4.

Structural Number: SN

EP300 / SG300 = 2.0

SG400 = 3.4

For extra strength a geogrid reinforcement can be utilized for improved base performance. The Gravel-Lok bonding agent adheres the stones with the geogrid much in the way wire mesh does with concrete.

Keep in mind that the system is still gravel. So every day use and turning on the driving surface over time will cause some surface stones to come loose. It is impossible to prevent this from happening and will vary according to a variety of factors. This includes type of stone, size of stone, type of driving, weight of vehicles, turning, climate conditions and other factors which contribute to the everyday use of a driving surface.

Areas which take the most abuse can be repaired by applying more Gravel-Lok. Additional Gravel-Lok can be applied to these areas when doing the initial installation or later on. When applying Gravel-Lok on a new driveway a two coat process can be exercised by applying the initial coat and after it tacks up install a thin overlay coat for increased bonding on the top surface. You will reduce the square foot coverage when doing a driveway application. Most likely you should yield a coverage of about 10 sft per gallon. This all depends on the amount of traffic the system will be subject to.

The Gravel-Lok Natural Stone Porous Paving System is an incredible solution for controlling stormwater runoff and and creating decorative and durable paving surfaces.

Gravel-Lok Sample Making Kit

2009-11-04T19:58:00.000-08:00

Gravel-Lok Press Release

2009-11-04T19:43:00.000-08:00

Cell-Tek announces the launch of their
New bonded aggregate system, Gravel-Lok

Crofton, MD, August 2009 - Cell-Tek Geosynthetics, manufacturer of geo-cellular confinement systems, announces the launch of their new bonded aggregate system, Gravel-Lok. This innovative product is the ultimate solution to bond together a wide variety of aggregates including washed stone and pea gravel creating a permeable decorative pavement system without sacrificing the strength.

Gravel-Lok is a single component, moisture curing liquid scientifically designed to bond together a wide variety of aggregates. When combined with Cell-Tek's SG Stabilizer Grid base support system the result is a permeable natural stone, durable pavement which can be utilized in a wide variety of civil, residential and industrial applications. It is an attractive alternative for municipalities, parks and other government projects. Gravel-Lok creates a permeable decorative natural pavement system which is just as strong as traditional hardscaping with half of the expense.

A homeowner in Maryland was searching for a solution for a shady area in their yard where they couldn't get grass to grow. Pavers were going to be too costly and gravel or mulch would have required too much maintenance. The homeowner approached their contractor, Life Time Pavers, who suggested Gravel-Lok and it was the perfect solution. The cost of the project was about 45% less than traditional hardscaping. The owner of Life Time Pavers says "With the system being completely porous, it was the ideal choice to help preserve the natural water flow to the root system of the existing trees. The natural beauty of the stones and functionality of the space exceeded the customers expectations."

The system is very simple to install. The 900 sft project was installed in 2 days. The contractor excavated the area and then laid down a non-woven geofabric followed by Cell-Tek's 2" Stabilizer Grid. The grid was then filled with #57 stone open graded aggregate which allows for maximum permeability. The stabilizer grid confines the infill to prevent lateral movement of the stones and adds strength to the overall system. The next step was to cover the grid with the decorative stone. The customer chose 1" Delaware Valley River Jack stone as the earth tone colors blended nicely with the landscape. The final step was the bonding system. Gravel-Lok was poured over the stones which bonded them together and in 24 hours the surface was fully functional.

The Gravel-Lok system can be applied to patios, walkways, driveways, streetscapes, nature trails, parking lots, golf cart paths and many more applications. The beauty of the system is that it creates a flat pavement which is wheelchair and stroller friendly meeting ADA compliance. The product is also environmentally friendly and non-toxic. It is an ideal solution for those looking for a less expensive, natural, completely permeable, maintenance-free area.

About Cell-Tek Geosynthetics

Cell-Tek Geosynthetics is an exclusive manufacturer of geosynthetic products used in a multitude of Green Building Applications. Their systems are the ideal choice when dealing with Load Support, Earth Retention or Slope Protection. Additionally, Gravel-Lok offers an affordable, eco-friendly product to help keep untidy gravel in place

Applying Gravel-Lok with Watering Can

2009-11-04T19:37:00.001-08:00

2009-11-04T19:30:00.000-08:00

2009-11-04T19:24:00.000-08:00

Solve Beach Pollution with Gravel-Lok

2009-11-04T19:08:00.000-08:00

Gravel-Lok: System Cross Section

2009-11-04T19:00:00.000-08:00

Product History

2009-11-04T09:08:00.000-08:00

In the mid 1990's our chemical laboratory was approached by several historical societies about the problem of bonding together pea gravel for most of the pathways located at their historical public properties. Back in the late 1700's and 1800's traditional pathways and driveways were constructed of loose decorative stone and pea gravel. Portland cement was not available until the late 19th century, so most public pathways were crushed gravel or pea gravel mixed with sand or clay. The problem was how to maintain the historical appearance of the architecture of that time, and making the pea gravel ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act) compliant to meet the building practices of the 21st century The end result had to be a natural crushed gravel or pea gravel surface that is held in place and wheelchair friendly. The surface would have to withstand the everyday pedestrian traffic associated with public buildings and tourist locations.

The only answer was a moisture curing liquid polymer which became inert after curing. The polyeurethane liquid enabled the bonding of a wide variety of aggregates and creates a long lasting pavement surface. Initial projects installed back in the mid 1990's are still performing today without any required maintenance. The resin is strong enough for driveways as well, but other considerations should be taken when creating a pavement supporting vehicular traffic.

Today the product is available to contractors, builders, architects and homeowners for use across a wide variety of applications. Visit www.Gravel-Lok.com to learn more about this exciting product.

Grass won't grow. Gravel-Lok It!

2009-10-27T17:55:00.000-07:00

When faced with the problem of getting something to grow in shaded tree areas of a property there are not too many solutions. Putting hardscaping such as pavers can be too costly and plain old gravel or mulch can be messy with constant maintenance. Another factor can be ensuring that the tree roots still gets plenty of water. When a resident in Severn Maryland approached Life Time Pavers after talking with several landscape architects there was only one solution. The contractor recommended an aggregate bonding system called Gravel-Lok to solve the problem. Gravel-Lok created a cost effective solution that maintained the natural look of the landscape. The cost of the project was about 45% less than traditional hardscaping options. The 900 sft project was installed in 2 days and the end product exceeded the expectations of the client. Gravel-Lok being completely pervious was the ideal choice to help preserve the natural water flow to the root system of the existing trees. By using a 1 inch Delaware valley river jack stone the earth tone colors blended nicely into the landscape. The clean edge was achieved by using a plastic paver edge restraint with spikes. The base system was produced using Cell-Teks SG200 stabilizer grid with a nonwoven geofabric separator and infilled with #57 stone open graded aggregate to achieve maximum permability. Gravel-Lok can be utilized in a wide variety of applications such as pathways, driveways, laying over old concrete and asphalt and much more.

Understanding Gravel-Lok

2009-10-27T17:51:00.001-07:00

Basically it is a polyeurathane. It's Plastic

No mixing required it is ready to use.

Moisture curing liquid that cures to an inert substance.

Color: Amber Liquid

Will not leach into the ground

Viscosity: 400 - 700 times the thickness of water. Viscosity is a measure of the resistance of a fluid which is being deformed by either shear stress or extensional stress.

A common measure of the viscosity (thickness) of a liquid. It is important to know your product’s cps when selecting items like mixers or pumps.

VISCOSITY: 400 – 700 Centipoise at 77°F (25°C)
Viscosity is the measurement of the thickness of a liquid. Viscosity is an important parameter in determining the "mouthfeel" of a product. The most common unit of expressing viscosity is the centipoise (cps) unit. The viscosity of water at 25° C is 0.89 cps

Moisture:
Gravel-Lok is cured by the moisture in the air. The higher the humidity the quicker it cures.
When winter approaches and temperatures fall below 50 degrees and there is less moisture in the air it takes longer to cure.

If you are using Gravel-Lok on a CR-6 base you will want to make sure there hasn't been rain for several days. If there is moisture in the ground it will cause the liquid to foam. No need to be alarmed you can crush the foam with a stick or by stepping on it.

The Cell-Tek Stabilizer grid allows for faster drying of the base. Also if foaming occurs it is lower in the system and most likely will not rise to the surface.

The foaming on the bottom can also help to make a stronger installation because it is a build up of the liquid on the base of the gravel.

Gravel-Lok can even be used by digging out and putting down 2 inches of stone and pouring it on. But much like asphalt without a base we all know what happens after some freezing and thawing.

Driveway Installation Video

2009-10-27T17:48:00.001-07:00

Gravel-Lok Online Estimator

2009-10-27T17:13:00.000-07:00

Calculate your next Gravel-Lok project with our on line estimator.

Create a material list you can print or email to your supplier.

Gravel-Lok Estimator

Surface Stone

2009-10-24T17:28:00.001-07:00

Gravel-Lok was originally created to bond together pea gravel.
Gravel-Lok works best with stones ranging from 1/4 inch to 1 inch in size.
Gravel-Lok will bond together stones up to 3 inches in size.
Stones should be clean of fines and debris.
The smaller the stone the more Gravel-Lok required.
Stones should be dry prior to installing Gravel-Lok
Gravel-Lok is an amber liquid so brown, gray, yellow or darker stones are recommended.
Limestone based (whitish stones) are NOT recommended

French Drain System with Gravel-Lok Surface

2009-10-23T05:46:00.000-07:00

Gravel-Lok French Drainage System:

The system is a typical french drainage system. Only difference the top stones will not move or shift, because they are locked in place with Gravel-Lok

Typical French Drain Cross Section

Booth Display: Anne Arundel County Fair 09'

2009-10-17T18:46:00.000-07:00

Surface Stone (Maryland Area)

2009-10-16T11:30:00.000-07:00

Delaware Valley River Gravel (1/4 Inch)

Maryland Pea Gravel

Tipple Red (1/4 Inch)

Delaware Valley River Gravel (1 inch)

Gravel-Lok Featured At Maryland Home Show

2009-10-15T06:14:00.000-07:00

Come see Gravel-Lok on display with Man Caves at the MD Home Show in Timonium this weekend Oct 16th - 18th. Homeshow Website

BOOTH SETUP

NATURAL STONE POROUS PAVING

The Gravel-Lok System (Porous Top to Bottom)

2009-10-01T11:38:00.001-07:00

The Gravel-Lok system is the ultimate porous paving solution.

SG 300 Base System will yield a structural number SN of 2.0

Water Storage of 2.1 inches

SG 400 Base System will yield a structural number SN of 4.24

Water Storage of 2.45 inches

Gravel-Lok: City Scapes (Tree Grate Replacement)

2009-09-29T05:34:00.000-07:00

Gravel-Lok Contractor Custom Stoneworks of Baltimore used Gravel-Lok to fill in tree grates along a city street in Baltimore, Maryland. Traditional methods require expensive iron tree grates that need to be replaced as the tree matures. Eventually a fully mature tree will require the grates to be removed which creates a safety hazard along sidewalks. The open pits also collects trash and other debris which detracts from the beauty of the city.

Gravel-Lok is environmentally friendly and allows water to filtrate through to the trees root system. It also fills in the void left from the vacant tree grate which not only enhances the appearance of the community but the safety as well.

Gravel-Lok in Action

2009-09-25T17:48:00.000-07:00

WATCH VIDEO

Green Fair

2009-09-25T17:08:00.000-07:00

Gravel-Lok was a hit with architects and engineers at the Smith Group Green Fair that took place on September 22nd. Cell-Tek Geosynthetics was invited to present its full line of soil stabilization products. The big hit was the NEW porous paving system called Gravel-Lok, which was on display with a continuous downpour of water being fed to the surface. Cell-Tek would like to thank Brian, Elizabeth and the rest of the team at the Smith Group for providing us the perfect venue to showcase our products.

Welcome To Gravel-Lok

2009-09-11T16:49:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

This is the official blog site for all things Gravel-Lok. Gravel-Lok is a moisture curing liquid which bonds together a wide variety of aggregates. Gravel-Lok is a division of Cell-Tek Geosynthetics and this blog was created to help make using Gravel-Lok a great experience. If there are any questions, comments or suggestions we would love to hear your feedback.