Gabion baskets are used to form stable, permeable retaining structures where ground support, erosion control and drainage are required. Manufactured from welded steel mesh and filled with angular stone, they act as a mass retaining system, relying on weight rather than fixings or concrete to remain stable in the ground.
They are commonly used for retaining walls, slope stabilisation, embankments, riverbanks and channels where water movement needs to be managed without building up pressure behind the structure. In landscaping and public realm projects, gabion baskets are also used to create planters, boundary walls, seating and architectural features that combine structural performance with a natural stone finish.
Because gabions are permeable, water can pass freely through the stone fill. This reduces hydrostatic pressure and makes them well suited to areas with poor drainage, high groundwater or flowing water, where solid walls may be prone to failure. In finer soils, a non woven geotextile membrane is typically installed behind the baskets to prevent soil fines washing through while maintaining drainage.
Gabion baskets are modular and supplied flat packed, allowing flexible layouts and stepped or tiered designs to suit site conditions. For low and medium height structures, they can often be installed on a firm, level and well compacted base without the need for concrete foundations. Taller walls or areas subject to surcharge loading require increased basket depth, stepped construction or engineering input.
Correct stone size, internal bracing and secure jointing between baskets are essential to prevent bulging and ensure long term performance. Gabions are not suitable for supporting buildings or structural foundations.
This category includes welded mesh gabion baskets and related components suitable for landscaping, erosion control and retaining applications on firm ground.
