FAQ

General & Specification

What materials are your planters available in (GFRC, SRC, fiberglass, GioCrete, steel, aluminum)?

Pure Design Werx planters are available in GFRC, SRC (steel-reinforced concrete), fiberglass, GioCrete (lightweight cementitious composite), and fabricated metals including steel and aluminum (when specified).

Are your planters suitable for commercial, municipal, and public works projects?

Yes. Our planters are designed and manufactured for commercial, institutional, hospitality, and public works environments. We support architect/specifier workflows, submittals, and project documentation.

Do your planters meet ADA, ASTM, and CalGreen requirements where applicable?

Where applicable to the installation and project scope, we design and document our products to align with relevant ADA accessibility requirements, ASTM material/performance references, and CalGreen considerations. Final compliance is project-specific and depends on how/where the planters are installed.

Can your planters be used as a Basis of Design in CSI specifications?

Yes. Pure Design Werx planters can be specified as Basis of Design with model codes, materials, finishes, and performance/submittal requirements suitable for CSI-format specifications.

Do you provide CSI 3-part spec sections for all planter models?

We provide CSI-style 3-part specification language for planters (Division 12 and Division 32 contexts) and can tailor it to a specific model, material, and finish schedule when requested.

Are your planters made domestically, internationally, or through cross-border manufacturing?

We operate a cross-border manufacturing model (USA/Mexico). Products may be fabricated in Mexico and finished/inspected and distributed through Pure Design Werx in the USA unless otherwise noted. Country of origin can be provided upon request.

What is your standard lead time for production?

 Lead time is quoted per project and depends on quantity, size, material, finish, and current production load. Typical ranges are provided at time of quote; expedited options may be available for standard items.

Do you offer expedited production for critical-path projects?

Yes, when feasible. Expedited production is evaluated case-by-case based on scope, materials/finishes, and capacity. Rush fees and logistics constraints may apply.

Do you provide product submittal packages for architect approval?

Yes. Submittals can include cut sheets, finish samples (as requested), shop drawings for custom units, installation instructions, warranty, and maintenance guidance.

Can your planters be approved as “or equal” alternates on public bids?

Yes. We routinely support “or equal”/alternate submissions with documentation packages aligned to the solicitation requirements, including compliance statements and comparable performance/finish information

Sizes, Dimensions & Customization

What standard sizes do your planters come in?

Standard sizes vary by collection and model. We offer common commercial footprints (e.g., 24 in, 30 in, 36 in, 42 in, 48 in and custom lengths) and can provide a current size matrix per model on request.

Can you manufacture fully custom sizes and dimensions?

Yes. We regularly fabricate custom dimensions to fit architectural layouts, podium conditions, and site constraints.

What are your maximum and minimum size limitations by material type?

Limitations depend on material and geometry. Fiberglass and GioCrete typically allow larger units at lower weight; SRC/GFRC support high rigidity and durability. Final limits are confirmed during engineering/quote based on wall thickness, reinforcement, and shipping/handling constraints.

Can you modify wall thickness for structural or weight requirements?

Yes. Wall thickness and reinforcement can be adjusted to meet structural, durability, and handling requirements while maintaining the intended aesthetic.

Do you offer modular planter systems or linked configurations?

Yes. We can provide modular and multi-piece planter systems, including linked runs, segmented assemblies, and site-specific configurations.

Can planters be fabricated for corners, curves, or radius layouts?

Yes. We can fabricate corner units, curved/radius planters, and custom geometries depending on model and material.

Can your planters be integrated into site walls or seating systems?

 Yes. We can coordinate integrated planter/wall/seat assemblies and provide detailing support for interface conditions.

Do you provide shop drawings for custom planter designs?

Yes. Custom and project-specific planters include shop drawings for dimensions, details, and coordination (drainage/anchoring/irrigation access as applicable).

Can planters be manufactured to match existing site furnishings?

Yes. We can match profiles, proportions, and finish intent, and we can target color/texture matches using approved samples or published standards (project-dependent).

Do you offer tapered, straight-wall, or sculpted planter profiles?

Yes. We offer straight-wall, tapered, and sculpted profiles depending on collection and custom scope.

Material Performance

What is the difference between GFRC and traditional concrete planters?

GFRC uses alkali-resistant glass fiber reinforcement, enabling thinner sections, lower weight, and strong impact resistance compared with traditional thick-section concrete. It typically offers improved strength-to-weight for architectural forms.

How does fiberglass compare to concrete for weight and durability?

Fiberglass is significantly lighter, making it easier to ship and install, especially on podium decks. It is durable for exterior use when UV-stabilized and properly finished, but it behaves differently than cementitious materials under abrasion/impact; selection depends on the project environment.

What is GioCrete and how does it perform compared to GFRC?

 GioCrete is a lightweight cementitious composite option intended to reduce dead load while maintaining a concrete-like aesthetic. Performance characteristics are specified by project and geometry; it typically targets weight reduction relative to GFRC/SRC for certain applications.

Are your planters reinforced internally?

Yes. Reinforcement varies by material and size (e.g., steel reinforcement in SRC, fiber reinforcement in GFRC, structural cores/laminates in fiberglass) and is engineered to the unit’s geometry and handling requirements.

Do your planters crack over time?

Cementitious products can develop hairline cracking from normal curing, thermal movement, or site conditions. We design mixes, reinforcement, and details to minimize and control cracking, but field conditions and installation/planting practices also matter.

Are your planters freeze-thaw resistant?

 When specified for climates requiring it, cementitious products can be produced with freeze-thaw considerations (mix design, sealing, drainage detailing). Freeze-thaw performance is highly dependent on drainage and standing-water avoidance.

Can your planters withstand coastal or high-humidity environments?

Yes, with appropriate material/finish selection and sealing. Coastal environments may require enhanced coatings and stainless/treated hardware where applicable.

Are your planters resistant to UV exposure and fading?

Yes. We use UV-appropriate coatings and pigments as specified. Long-term color stability depends on finish type, exposure, and maintenance.

Do your planters resist corrosion in urban or industrial environments?

Yes, with correct material selection and protective coatings/sealers. Metal planters can be specified with powder coating and corrosion-resistant detailing as required.

Are your planters fire-resistant or fire-rated?

Cementitious materials (SRC/GFRC/GioCrete) are generally non-combustible; fiberglass and coatings vary by formulation. If a fire rating is required, we will coordinate the appropriate material/finish documentation for the project.

Finishes & Color

What standard colors and finishes are available?

We offer a range of standard concrete tones, architectural coatings, and textured or smooth finish options depending on material. A finish schedule (colors/textures) is provided per collection and can be customized.

Can you match custom paint or color codes (RAL, Pantone, Sherwin-Williams)?

Yes. We can target custom colors using published standards (RAL/Pantone/Sherwin-Williams) and approved samples. Final match is subject to an approved control sample due to material/lighting variability.

Do you offer textured, smooth, honed, or sandblasted finishes?

Yes. Finish options include smooth, textured, honed, and sandblasted looks where appropriate to the material and model.

Are finishes sealed or raw?

Cementitious planters are typically supplied with a sealer appropriate to the finish and intended exposure unless a raw/unsealed surface is explicitly requested. Metal planters are typically coated (e.g., powder coat) unless specified otherwise

How long do finishes typically last outdoors?

 Lifespan depends on exposure, maintenance, and finish type. As a practical rule, exterior finishes benefit from periodic cleaning and re-sealing/coating maintenance to sustain appearance.

Can finishes be repaired if damaged?

Yes. Many finishes can be field-touched-up or repaired depending on the system. We provide recommended repair methods and compatible materials where applicable.

Are color samples available for submittals?

Yes. We can provide finish chips and/or project-specific control samples for approval depending on scope and requirements.

Can multiple finishes be used within the same project?

 Yes. Mixed finishes are common (e.g., different planter colors by zone). We recommend an approved finish schedule to maintain consistency.

Are your finishes graffiti-resistant?

Anti-graffiti coatings and sealers can be specified. Cleaning effectiveness depends on paint type, dwell time, and maintenance practices.

Can your planters be powder-coated or sealed with anti-carbonation coatings?

Metal planters can be powder-coated. Cementitious planters can be sealed, including options intended to reduce staining and carbonation effects depending on project requirements.

Drainage & Plant Health

Do your planters include drainage holes as standard?

Yes, unless otherwise specified. Drainage configuration depends on planter size and intended planting assembly.

Can planters be manufactured without drainage holes?

Yes, when required for interior applications or where a lined/contained planting system is used. In those cases we recommend a defined water-management strategy

Do you offer internal drainage systems?

 Yes. Options may include internal channels, elevated false bottoms, and drain outlet coordination depending on planter type and project needs.

Can your planters be adapted for irrigation lines?

Yes. We can coordinate irrigation penetrations and access details when specified during design/submittals.

Do you provide root barriers or liners?

Root barriers/liners can be provided or coordinated depending on the planting design. Many projects use a liner system selected by the landscape contractor; we can advise on compatibility.

What soil depth is recommended for trees vs. shrubs?

 It depends on species and root-ball size. As a general guide, shrubs often require less depth than trees, and tree planters should be coordinated to the nursery root-ball and mature growth needs. Final planting specs should come from the landscape architect/nursery.

Can your planters support live trees?

Yes. Tree use is common when planter depth/volume, drainage, and anchoring are designed appropriately.

Are false bottoms or internal platforms available?

Yes. False bottoms/platforms can reduce soil volume, manage weight, and improve drainage performance where appropriate

How do you prevent water pooling in large planters?

We use proper drain sizing/placement, optional internal drainage layers/false bottoms, and recommend appropriate media and installation practices to avoid standing water.

Can planters be connected to site stormwater systems?

Yes, where permitted. We can coordinate drain outlets to site piping or stormwater infrastructure as specified by the design team.

Structural & Safety

Are your planters rated for public seating or leaning loads?

Planters can be designed for incidental leaning/contact. If they are intended to function as seating/seat-walls, that must be specified so we can detail wall thickness, reinforcement, and edge profiles accordingly.

Can your planters function as traffic or pedestrian barriers?

In some cases, yes, depending on size, mass, anchoring, and project criteria. Barrier/security performance must be defined by the design team; we can support detailing to meet the specified intent.

Are anchoring systems available for high-wind or seismic zones?

Yes. Anchoring provisions and kits can be provided or coordinated to meet wind/seismic requirements where applicable.

Can planters be surface-mounted or embedded?

Yes. We can support surface-mounted, anchored, or embedded/partially recessed installations depending on site conditions.

Do you provide seismic compliance options?

Yes. Where required, we can provide anchoring details and coordination to meet the project’s seismic design category requirements.

Are edge profiles designed for pedestrian safety?

Yes. Our profiles prioritize clean edges and pedestrian safety; special edge radii/chamfers can be incorporated where required.

Can planters be ADA-compliant when used in public pathways?

Yes, when located and detailed per the project’s accessibility requirements (clearances, protruding object rules, routes). Compliance depends on placement and site design.

Do you offer anti-tip or anti-theft anchoring systems?

Yes. Anchoring options are available for public spaces to reduce movement, tipping risk, and theft.

Can your planters be forklifted or craned into place?

Yes. Handling method depends on size/weight. We provide guidance on lifting/rigging and recommend appropriate equipment.

Do you provide lifting points for large-scale units?

Yes, when required. Lifting provisions are coordinated during fabrication and identified in installation guidance.

Installation

Do you provide installation instructions and manuals?

Yes. We provide installation guidance and can include project-specific notes for anchoring, drainage, and protection.

Are your planters delivered fully assembled?

Typically yes for standard units. Large custom assemblies may ship in multiple sections based on size, access, and rigging constraints.

Can planters be shipped in sections for on-site assembly?

Yes, when necessary due to access, weight, or oversized freight limitations. Assembly method is defined during submittals.

What type of foundation is required for large planters?

Requirements depend on weight, soil volume, and site conditions. Large planters typically require a stable, level, non-compressible base and may require engineered support on decks/podiums

Can planters be installed on podium decks or waterproofed surfaces?

Yes, with proper coordination. Podium installations require load verification, waterproofing protection measures, and drainage strategy coordination with the design team.

Do you provide templates for anchor placement?

Yes, when anchoring is specified. We can provide anchor layouts and templates through shop drawings.

 Can your team assist with installation support?

Yes. We can provide remote support and, where arranged, jobsite coordination. Scope depends on project needs and location.

Are installation inspections required?

Inspections are project-dependent. We recommend verifying substrate readiness, drainage, and anchoring prior to final placement.

Can planters be relocated after installation?

Often yes if not embedded and if anchoring/utility connections allow it. Relocation feasibility depends on size, planting, and how the unit was installed.

What site conditions should be verified before delivery?

Verify access routes, staging area, crane/forklift access, substrate bearing capacity, clearances, and that drainage/irrigation rough-ins (if any) are ready.

Shipping & Logistics

Do you ship nationwide or internationally?

 Yes. We ship throughout the United States and can coordinate international logistics when required.

What freight class are your planters?

Freight class varies by product size, material, packaging, and density. We provide freight class and NMFC information on the shipping quote/bol.

Are planters palletized or crated?

Yes. Planters are typically palletized or crated depending on size, finish sensitivity, and freight requirements.

Can deliveries be scheduled for jobsite time windows?

Yes, subject to carrier availability and site requirements. Time-window or appointment deliveries may carry additional fees.

Do you offer lift-gate or inside delivery?

Lift-gate and special delivery services can be arranged as requested and may add cost. Most commercial jobsites provide unloading equipment.

Can you ship directly to general contractors or staging yards?

Yes. We commonly ship to GCs, staging yards, and logistics partners

What are typical shipping weights by material?

Weight varies widely by size. As a general rule, fiberglass and GioCrete are lighter; GFRC and SRC are heavier. We provide unit weights on cut sheets or quotes for each model/size.

Do you provide tracking for freight shipments?

Yes. We provide carrier details and tracking/pro numbers when available.

Are rush shipments available?

Sometimes. Rush shipments depend on production readiness, carrier capacity, and lane availability. Additional fees may apply.

Who is responsible for unloading at delivery?

Unless otherwise arranged, the receiving party is responsible for unloading. If lift-gate or special handling is required, it must be specified at time of order.

Maintenance & Warranty

What is the standard warranty on your planters?

Standard warranty is one (1-5) year(s) against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use, unless a project specifies different terms in the contract documents

Does the warranty cover structural cracking?

Warranty covers manufacturing defects and abnormal structural failures under normal use. Hairline cracking, normal weathering, and issues caused by installation, substrate movement, or misuse are typically excluded

What cleaning products are recommended?

Use pH-neutral cleaners and soft brushes/cloths. Avoid acids, harsh solvents, wire brushes, and abrasive pads unless specifically approved for the finish system.

How often should planters be resealed?

For cementitious finishes, resealing intervals typically range from 24 to 36 months depending on exposure and maintenance goals. We can recommend a schedule based on finish type and environment.

Can planters be pressure washed?

Light pressure washing may be acceptable on some finishes, but excessive pressure can damage coatings or surface texture. Use low pressure, keep distance, and test an inconspicuous area first.

Does the warranty cover finish fading or peeling?

Warranty covers finish adhesion defects under normal conditions. Gradual fading, normal wear, and damage from cleaning chemicals, abrasion, or vandalism are typically excluded.

What is the expected lifespan of your planters?

With proper installation and routine maintenance, planters are intended for long-term exterior service. Lifespan depends on environment, finish selection, and maintenance practices.

Are replacement parts available?

Yes, for items such as drain components, liners, or accessory hardware when applicable. Availability depends on model and project configuration

Can damaged planters be repaired on-site?

Often yes, depending on damage type and finish. We can provide repair guidance or coordinate professional repair options when needed.

Do you provide maintenance manuals for facility managers?

Yes. Maintenance guidance can be provided as part of the submittal package or closeout documentation.

Procurement & Compliance

Do you offer trade pricing for architects and designers?

Yes. We offer trade and project pricing for architects, landscape architects, designers, and qualified trade partners.

Are your products Buy America or Buy American compliant?

Requirements vary by project funding source and agency. Because we operate cross-border fabrication, some products may not qualify under Buy America provisions for certain federally funded transportation projects. We can provide country-of-origin documentation and support agency-specific compliance documentation when required.

Can you provide country of origin documentation?

Yes. Country of origin documentation can be provided upon request.

Do you carry product liability insurance?

Yes. We carry product liability coverage appropriate for commercial supply. A certificate of insurance (COI) can be provided on request

Can you provide W-9, COI, and compliance forms?

Yes. We can provide W-9, COI, and standard vendor compliance documentation as required by the purchasing entity.

Are your products approved for school districts and government agencies?

We support school district and government procurement with required documentation and submittals. Final approval depends on each agency’s purchasing and specification requirements.

Do you provide sustainability or recycled content documentation?

Where applicable and when available, we can provide sustainability-related documentation (e.g., material statements) requested by the design team or agency.

Can you supply environmental product declarations (EPDs)?

EPD availability depends on the specific material system and project requirements. If an EPD is required, we will confirm availability or propose an acceptable compliance pathway.

Do you provide BIM/Revit files for your planters?

We can provide BIM/Revit assets for standard and frequently specified models, and we can develop project-specific Revit families for custom units by arrangement.

Can you assist with VE (Value Engineering) alternates during bidding?

Yes. We can support VE by proposing alternate materials, sizes, or finish systems that maintain the design intent and performance requirements while meeting budget/lead-time constraints

Contact us Today!

Have a project in mind or want to learn more about Pure Design Werx? Connect with our team to discuss our capabilities, values, and how we can support your vision.

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