Gabion Mattress Installation

Below you will find a step by step guide on gabion mattress installation. 

• Experience Required: Medium
• Tools Required: Protective gloves, Wire cutters
• Materials Required: Gabion Mattress, PVC coated tying wire, Gabion stone, Geotextile (optional)

Step 1) Prepare the Foundation

• In the process of gabion mattress installation, start by preparing the area.
• Remove any debris and make sure the surface is even and firmly compacted to create a solid foundation for the cage.

 

Step 2) Add Geotextile (Optional)

• For added stability and erosion control, you may choose to lay down a geotextile over the prepared surface before placing the gabion mattresses.

Step 3) Unfold the Mattress

• Unfold the gabion mesh on flat, solid surface.
• The base, ends (front, back, and lid) are constructed from a single continuous piece of material.
• The two sides and diaphragm(s) are secured to the base using a full length of tying wire.

Step 4) Assemble Gabion Mattress

• Lift the front, back and both side panels to form a box shape.

Step 5) Secure with Tying Wire

• Secure the tying wire to the top corners of the panels, then weave it down along the edges.
• Use double and single loops spaced approximately 10cm apart along the wire mesh openings.
• Alternatively, use C-rings to fasten the panels.

Step 6) Secure the Diaphragm

• Connect the diaphragm(s) to the side panels and secure them firmly using tying wire.

 

Step 7) Fill with Stone

• Start filling the gabion mattress with stones of suitable size (minimum 80mm x 80mm).

Step 8) Close the Lid

• In the process of gabion mattress installation, fold the lid panel over the filled basket, ensuring it fits securely over the stones.

Step 9) Attach the Lid

• Make sure the lid panels are tightly secured to the gabion mattress by fastening them with tying wire or C-rings, following the same method used for the edges.

Tips and Tricks

• The spacing between diaphragms (separation panels) should not exceed 1 meter along the length of the units.
• Unfold the gabion mattress on a flat, solid surface.
• For use on slopes, begin filling the cells from the bottom.
• When overlapping geotextiles, make sure there is a minimum overlap of 30cm.
• C-rings can be used as an alternative to tying wire.
• Fill the cage with angular, interlocking stones that are at least 80mm x 80mm in size.
• Vary gabion mattress sizes depending on your project requirements.

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.
• How to Build a Gabion Retaining Wall – Learn how to build a retaining wall.

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