Cattle Grid Description

The H-15 designation is a loading rating of 12 tons per axle with an additional safety margin of an extra 30% in capacity built in for safety. This style and rating are typically used on private property, such as ranches and private rural roads. The flat top-pipe design creates a smoother ride when crossing at higher speeds and yet still creates an effective livestock barrier. These guards are available with optional wings to tie into your fence line to prevent your animals from going around the ends.

Precast concrete foundations can be shipped with these 'Texas Gates'. They can be set directly in the ground upon delivery and eliminate the need to pour cement footings. The steel is bolted directly to the top of the pre-set J-bolts already set in the concrete. 

For longer lengths, they do come with pre-drilled holes for mounting end-to-end.  For example, for a span of 20' across a road, (2) 10' guards may be bolted end-to-end. 

See our entire CATTLE GUARD SELECTION HERE!

Cattle Guard on a Pre-cast Foundation

 

What is an H15 Rated-Cattle Guard?

An H15-rated cattle guard is designed to support loads of up to 15 tons (30,000 pounds). The "H15" designation refers to the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) standards for vehicular loads, specifically representing a single truck axle carrying a load of 15 tons. This rating ensures that the cattle guard can support vehicles with this load capacity without deforming or failing.

Uses for H15 Rated Cattle Guards

H15-rated cattle guards are typically used in environments where light to moderate vehicle traffic is expected, such as:

• Private Ranches and Farms: Where only light trucks, farm vehicles, and smaller equipment typically cross the cattle guard.
• Residential Driveways: Particularly in rural areas where occasional traffic includes delivery trucks or standard vehicles.
• Low-Traffic Rural Roads: Roads that are not subjected to heavy commercial traffic, but still require a cattle guard for livestock control.

Can H15 Rated-Cattle Guards Be Used on Public Roadways?

H15-rated cattle guards are generally not recommended for public roadways, especially those that accommodate heavy commercial traffic.

HS20 Rating vs. H15 Rating

• HS20 Rated Cattle Guards: These are designed to support a load of up to 20 tons (40,000 pounds) per axle. The HS20 designation is a stricter standard and is often required for public roadways to ensure safety and durability under the weight of heavier vehicles, such as large trucks, construction vehicles, and other heavy equipment.

Differences:

• Load Capacity: HS20-rated cattle guards can handle higher loads (20 tons per axle vs. 15 tons per axle for H15-rated guards).
• Public Roadway Use: HS20-rated guards are suitable and often required for public roadways, while H15-rated guards are better suited for private or less-trafficked areas.
• Durability: HS20-rated guards are built to withstand more frequent and heavier traffic, making them more durable for high-traffic public roads.

Summary

While H15-rated cattle guards are adequate for private use and lighter vehicle traffic, HS20-rated cattle guards are necessary for public roadways due to their higher load capacity and ability to withstand heavier and more frequent traffic. If installing a cattle guard on a public road, it is advisable to use an HS20-rated guard to meet safety standards and ensure long-term durability.