DIY Gabion Water Feature

Below you will find a step by step guide on how to install a DIY gabion water feature. 

• Experience Required: Medium
• Tools Required: Protective gloves, Tape measure, Spray paint, Shovel, Level, Tamper
• Materials Required: Gabion baskets, Helicals or Tying wire, Gabion stone, Geotextile, Pond container, Basecourse or gravel, Water pump, Tubing, Spouts, Concrete (optional)

Step 1) Plan & Measure Your Space

• Start by measuring your space and begin planning your design.
• Choose the shape, size, and style of your DIY gabion water feature.

 

Step 2) Measure Container, Calculate Gabions

• Measure your pond container, then work out how many baskets you need and what sizes, based on your plan.

Step 3) Mark Location

• Use spray paint to mark the spot where you plan to place the baskets and the pond container.

Step 4) Dig a Base

• Begin by digging a base for your gabion fountain, making sure it’s level.

Step 5) Add Geotextile

• Place a layer of geotextile over the soil to help with stability and drainage.

Step 6) Add Basecourse

• Next, add a layer of gravel or basecourse on top of the geotextile.
• If the soil is soft or your structure is larger, you can pour a concrete foundation instead, for added strength.

 

Step 7) Compact Basecourse

• Compact the gravel firmly using a hand tamper to create a solid, level base.

Step 8) Position the Pond Container

• Place the pond container in its planned spot.
• Make sure it sits level on the compacted base.

Step 9) Assemble Gabion

• Lay the first basket flat on the ground.
• Begin assembling it by securing the corners with helicals, but leave the adjacent corners open for now.

Step 10) Repeat with All Gabions

• Repeat the same steps for the remaining baskets.
• Use helicals to secure each corner and also where the gabions connect to each other.

Step 11) Install the Pump System

• Place the pump and run the tubing through the back or inside the baskets, ending where the water will flow out.
• Fit the faucets there.
• If unsure about setup, consult a landscaper or garden pond expert.

Step 12) Check the System

• Run the pump and test the flow, making adjustments if needed.

Step 13) Fill with Stones

• Fill your baskets with stones.

Step 14) Close the Lids

• Fold the lids down to close the baskets.

Step 15) Secure the Lids

• Secure the lids with helicals or tying wire.

Step 16) Finished Project

• Your DIY gabion water feature is now finished!
• You can start adding decorations like plants, lighting, or any other features you like.

Tips and Tricks

• Before you begin, decide what kind of water feature you want. Instead of a pond container, you can use a pond liner.
• Choose the outlet: a spout, wall pipe, tap, or a waterfall blade.
• Gather your gabion water feature ideas: there are endless ways to design your fountain, with different shapes, styles, and layouts.
• Place the feature near an outdoor waterproof cable if your pump needs electricity.
• Add any decorations you like, such as plants or other features. You can also install LED lights for night-time lighting.
• If you’re not sure how to set up the pump, or how much water you need, ask a landscaper or garden pond expert.

Real Life Image

• Episode 7, series 10 of ITV Love Your Garden, was broadcast on 31st August 2021.
• Alan Titchmarsh and the team visited Dudley to give James and his family’s garden a full makeover.
• Check out the finished project here.

FURTHER READING

• How to Install Gabion Baskets – A guide showing you how to assemble baskets.
• How to Fill Gabions – Learn how to fill cages.
• How to Lace Gabion Baskets – Step by step instructions on how to lace baskets.

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