Did You Know Gabions Can Offer Protection?

Derived from the Italian word ‘Gabbione’, meaning ‘big cage’, Gabions have been used a number of ways throughout history.

Traditionally, Gabions were constructed as military fortifications used as protection against enemy fire. The Gabions were portable and were made and deployed quickly wherever needed. They are still used today on military bases, protecting soldiers in mess halls and sleeping quarters. 

Today, Gabions can be individually designed and installed to offer protection against noise, traffic, and even fire! The main reason for this is that Gabions that are made of double-twisted, galvanized wire or galvanized steel (and are filled with a high-density rock) combine together to make a strong, durable and solid structure! Gabions also have the added benefits of providing privacy and screening against the wind. Applications include noise walls, road barriers, bollards, columns, or pillars, of various shapes and sizes.

 Gabion Retaining Wall

Areas that will benefit the use of Gabions are private homes, schools, and public spaces like entertainment venues, playgrounds, shopping centers, and car parks. The use of natural rock blends with the environment, providing a softer, more natural division between spaces. This makes Gabions a popular choice amongst landscape designers and homeowners.

Gabions – an Effective Way to Protect Against Flooding

Climate change is a big issue when it comes to the potential for flooding. There has been a significant increase in major storms, resulting in increased rainfall and therefore a major problem with stormwater runoff. In many urban areas, much of the rainwater is collected through drainage systems and eventually flows into major bodies of water, such as creeks and rivers. During periods of heavy rainfall, water levels rise, leading to flooding and property damage.

Flooding can also cause significant damage to roads, especially in hilly and mountainous areas. This not only leads to severe traffic disruptions, but also poses a high risk to anyone in the area.

 Gabion Wall

A common method to help control erosion and water flow along the river in flat areas is to use cast stone or loose rock. This is sufficient when the current is slow, but during heavy rains and fast flows, loose rocks can be washed away and swept away.

A better option, especially in faster flowing areas, is to install Gabions and Reno mattresses. They become particularly beneficial in hilly areas and in areas such as road restoration along riverbanks and creeks. They can be installed as retaining walls, weirs, detention dams, and impoundments.

Gabion retaining walls create a continuous, flexible, and permeable structure with a much higher chance of remaining intact. This is important in areas where scour could cause sliding into river or stream banks and along roadsides where there is a risk of landslides. Gabions can also control water pressure and resist any differential settlement and movement.

Gabions can be installed relatively quickly and are therefore cost-effective. They are well suited to all soil types and climatic conditions. They also allow vegetation to grow, which further enhances their stability and helps them blend in with their natural habitat - so they're environmentally friendly!

There are many ways to incorporate Gabions that can offer style and protection, in this post we have gathered some ideas for inspiration. Contact Zhuoda hardware wire mesh to discuss ideas and the cost of design and installation - it may be cheaper than you think, and we offer free, no-obligation quotes!