What is Hexagonal Gabion Mesh and Why Do We Use Them?

A structure that’s as practical as it is visually striking — that's the power of a gabion wall. Whether you're a homeowner seeking a stylish retaining wall or a professional tackling erosion control, gabion walls offer an eco-friendly, durable, and cost-effective alternative to traditional concrete structures. Curious to learn more? This guide explores everything you need to know about gabion walls: from their purpose and benefits to materials like natural stone or bricks and step-by-step construction.

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What Is a Gabion Wall?

A gabion wall, derived from the Italian word "gabbione" meaning "big cage," is a structure aimed to stabilize soil, prevent erosion, and retain earth. It has a simple yet effective design that makes it a popular alternative solution to traditional retaining walls, particularly in landscaping, construction, and environmental conservation projects. Here’s what’s included in the basic structure of a gabion wall:

• Wire mesh: Constructed using galvanized hexagonal meshes to ensure durability and resistance to weathering.
• Filler material: Typically includes natural stones, gravel, or recycled concrete to add weight and stability.
• Cage shape: Configured into rectangular or square forms, which are stacked in one or more rows depending on the wall's intended purpose.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Gabion Walls

Gabion walls are more than just retaining structures; they are multifunctional solutions that combine practicality, durability, and sustainability. If you understand the benefits and drawbacks of gabion walls, you’ll be able to see their key features and determine whether they are the right choice for your project.

Benefits

• Cost-effectiveness: Gabion walls are more affordable than traditional concrete structures, especially when you use local materials.
• Durability and longevity: The combination of strong wire mesh and durable fillers ensures gabion walls last 20-50 years, even in harsh conditions.
• Permeability: Gabion walls allow water to pass through, reducing hydrostatic pressure and minimizing water damage.
• Ease of construction: The modular design and simple assembly process make gabion walls straightforward to construct, even for small projects.
• Eco-friendliness: Gabion walls promote sustainability by using recycled materials and supporting natural vegetation.

Drawbacks

• Labor-intensive construction: Filling and stacking the cages requires significant effort, especially for larger projects.
• Potential for settling: Over time, fillers may shift or settle which means proper site preparation is crucial.
• Aesthetic limitations: Their raw appearance may not appeal to everyone, though decorative materials can improve visual appeal.
• Frequent inspections: Regular checks are needed to maintain the wire mesh and prevent rusting or degradation.
• Vulnerable to strong currents: Fast-moving water can displace or damage gabion walls without proper reinforcement.

Practical and Decorative Uses of Gabion Walls

Gabion walls have a remarkably wide range of applications, catering to both aesthetic and functional requirements. Below are only a few examples.

Retaining Walls

Gabion walls are a popular choice for retaining structures: they are ideal for stabilizing slopes, mitigating soil erosion, and managing water flow in flood-prone areas. Their permeable design reduces hydrostatic pressure, while their flexibility allows them to adapt to challenging soil and water conditions, protecting riverbanks, shorelines, and slopes.

Landscaping and Decorative Features

In landscaping, gabion walls are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

• Privacy fences: Providing a natural yet industrial look for outdoor spaces.
• Garden features: Acting as planters, benches, or decorative dividers.
• Cover walls: Concealing unsightly areas or structures while maintaining design harmony.

Their ability to incorporate different types of natural stone and recycled materials offers endless creative possibilities, so it’s not surprising they’re a favorite for architects and designers.

Noise and Visual Barriers

In urban and industrial settings, gabion walls act as noise barriers that absorb sound and create quieter environments. They are also used as visual shields to block unwanted views, combining practicality with aesthetic appeal.

Civil Engineering Projects

Gabion walls are often used in large-scale infrastructure projects, such as:

• Road construction: Stabilizing slopes and retaining earth along highways.
• Bridge abutments: Providing structural support and erosion control.
• Channel lining: Reducing water velocity and minimizing sediment deposition.

They are also cost effective and easy to install which makes them a reliable alternative to concrete structures in civil engineering.

Choosing the Right Materials

The materials used in a gabion wall will directly impact its performance, longevity, and appearance. Selecting the right wire mesh and filler material ensures the structure meets its functional and aesthetic requirements while staying cost-effective.

Wire Mesh: The Backbone of a Gabion Wall

The wire mesh serves as the structural framework that holds the filler materials securely in place. Here are some key considerations:

• Galvanized steel: Highly resistant to rust and weathering which is ideal for outdoor use.
• PVC-coated steel: Adds an extra layer of protection against corrosion, especially in humid or coastal areas.

Advice: Choose a mesh thickness suitable for the wall’s purpose — we recommend thicker wire (4-6mm) for taller or load-bearing walls.

Filler Material: Strength and Aesthetics Combined

The filler material not only determines the wall’s appearance but also contributes to its weight and structural integrity. Common filler materials are:

• Natural stone: Popular for its durability and aesthetic appeal and ideal for high-visibility projects.
• Gravel: A cost-effective option for functional walls.
• Recycled concrete: Eco-friendly and budget-friendly, perfect for environmentally conscious projects.
• Brick and tile fragments: Repurposed from construction debris, they add a rustic charm and promote sustainability in gabion wall projects.

Advice: For decorative purposes, choose filler materials that complement the surrounding environment. For functional walls, prioritize durability and weight.

How Much Does a Gabion Wall Cost?

There isn’t a straightforward answer as the cost of a gabion wall depends on several factors, including its size, materials, labor, and installation method. Without detailed project specifications, it is difficult for us to predict the exact cost of a gabion wall. However, the following table provides estimated total costs depending on whether you choose DIY or professional installation.

Advice: Use local filler materials and DIY for small projects to save costs, but hire professionals for taller or load-bearing walls to ensure they are executed safely.

How to Build a Gabion Wall: A Step-by-Step Guide

Building a gabion wall is a straightforward process, but you’ll still need to plan and execute carefully to build a wall that is durable and functional. Follow this step-by-step guide by our experts to ensure your wall is built efficiently and effectively.

Step 1: Preparing the Tools

Before starting, gather all of the necessary tools and equipment you’ll need as it will streamline the construction process:

• Shovel
• Measuring tape
• Level
• Wire cutters
• Hammer
• Gloves
• Safety glasses
• Wheelbarrow (optional, but highly recommended)

Step 2: Planning and Selecting a Location

Choose a stable, level area for your gabion wall. Consider the following factors:

• Drainage: Proper drainage is critical. Avoid areas prone to waterlogging.
• Soil conditions: Stable soil will reduce the risk of settling. Poor soils may need additional groundwork (e.g., compaction or soil stabilization).

Step 3: Assembling the Gabion Cages

Carefully unfold the wire mesh baskets and assemble them according to the manufacturer's instructions. All of the connections should be secure. Position the first layer of gabions on the prepared foundation so they are level and aligned.

Step 4: Filling the Gabions

Next, start filling the gabion baskets with your chosen filler material. Place down larger stones first, followed by progressively smaller stones to fill the voids. For any visible areas, you can place decorative stones so they are aesthetically appealing.

Step 5: Securing the Wall and Adding Finishing Touches

Use wire ties or cable ties to link adjacent gabion baskets together as this will create a unified and stable structure. The wall should remain level throughout the process. Be sure to secure the tops of the baskets to prevent displacement, and regularly check for levelness.

Are you interested in learning more about Hexagonal Gabion Mesh? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

Pro Tip: For taller walls (over 3-4 feet), consider a stepped design for increased stability.

Enhance Your Landscape with Gabion Walls

Gabion walls are incredibly versatile and practical, offering an eco-friendly solution for retaining structures, landscaping, and more. Choosing the right materials will enhance the wall’s function and aesthetics, whether you're using natural stone or recycled fillers. If you’re interested in enhancing your landscape with a gabion wall but you’re not sure where to start, you’re in the right place.

Standards & Common Specifications

Gabion mesh is available in a variety of different specs, including wire thickness, opening size, box dimension and material grade. Consisting of hexagonal wire mesh, gabion box is divided into cells with diaphragms in 1 meter or 3ft intervals. The diaphragm reinforces the structures of gabion box.

We follow the major international standard in our manufacturing process.

Standard

The basic raw material is low carbon steel wire drawn from wire rod. As per customers’ requirements, wire will be galvanized or coated with PVC before weaving. Different material grade decides the quality of hexagonal mesh significantly. We have the following wire quality available in our production.

• ASTM Standard
  • A975 - 11 Standard Specification for Double–Twisted Hexagonal Mesh Gabions and Revet Mattresses
  • A641 / A641M - 09a Standard Specification for Zinc–Coated (Galvanized) Carbon Steel Wire
  • A856 / A856M - 03 Standard Specification for Zinc-5% Aluminum-Mischmetal Alloy-Coated Carbon Steel Wire
• BS Standard
  • BS EN -2 Steel wire and wire products for fencing and netting - Part 2: Hexagonal steel wire netting for agricultural, insulation and fencing purposes
  • BS EN -3 Steel Wire And Wire Products For Fencing And Netting - Part 3: Hexagonal Steel Wire Mesh Products For Civil Engineering Purposes
  • BS EN -2 Steel wire and wire products. Non-ferrous metallic coatings on steel wire. Zinc or zinc alloy coatings
• Our Tolerance Standard: on the hexagonal double-twisted wire mesh, size of opening should not exceed ± 5% on the nominal dimension.
• Galfan Coated Gabion Box with PVC Coated
  • Colour: grey-RAL , according to ASTM D - 16.
  • Specific weight: between 1.30 and 1.35 dN/dm3, according to ASTM D792 - 13.
  • Hardness: between 50 and 60 Shore D, according to ASTM D - 15e1.
  • Tensile strength: not less than 210 dN/cm2, according to ASTM D412 - 16.
  • Elongation: between 200% and 280%, according to ASTM D412 - 16.
  • Weight loss: less than 5% after 24 hours at 105 °C, according to ASTM D - 12.
  • Residual ashes: less than 2%, according to ASTM D - 99.
  • Artificial ageing tests
    • Salt spray test: test period hours, test method ASTM B117 - 16.
    • Exposure to UV rays: test period hours at 63 °C, test method ASTM D - 13 and ASTM G152 - 13 apparatus type E; exposure to high temperatures: test period 24 hours at 105 °C, test method ASTM D - 16 and ASTM D - 12.

Hexagonal Wire Mesh Regular Sizes

Gabion Box Regular Sizes

Machine

In our sqm gabion production workshop, Enzar Metal has 6 sets of advanced machines for gabion mesh weaving. All our machines are in good condition and efficient. We can deliver 150 tons of gabion mesh within a week time. Urgent order request will be proper treated in our production arrangement.

Packing and Loading

For easy handling and transportation, gabion box is usually shipped in bundle. The gabion box is folded and pressed into bundle, and then strapped with steel or nylon bandage. In this way, the gabion box package is in smallest dimension with suitable unit weight. Gabion is usually fitted into 40ft container to maximize the freight cost.

Installation Guideline

The installation is relatively easy then other similar material. It is briefly introduced as the following steps. For more installing and designing, please send inquiry for detailed documents.

• Step #1: Assembly Unpack the gabion bundles → Unfold each gabion panel → Fold to form a regular box → Lace at the selvage wire with binding wire provided
• Step #2: Forming the Structure Level the working ground → Carry and place the gabion as designed → Wire up the gabions aside
• Step #3: Stretching gabions before filling Place the stretching bars at each corner → Fix the bars to stretch the gabion → Check the wiring after Stretching
• Step #4: Filling rocks Fill the gabion by rocks with proper sizes → Level the rocks surface in the gabion → Close and secure the lid by binding wire provided

General Assortments and Applications

Reno Mattress

Reno Mattress is a typical gabion box used for riverbank protection. The thickness/height is less than 500mm compared with normal gabion box.

Terra Mesh

This type is particularly applied as slope forming. Faced by gabion and reinforced by roll mesh, terra mesh gives the slope project firm soil stabilization property.

For more information, please visit Buy Field Fence.