Regulations state that retaining walls should start at 50cm below ground. However, Gabion walls at 1m high are often placed directly on the ground or at a shallower depth.
Digging between 20cm-50cm or until the ground is firm should be adequate.
2m High Wall
Equipment Required
Use 1x1x1m & 1.5x1x1m baskets – visit our calculator page
All wire diameters are suitable, but we suggest 4mm+ if you would like to prevent bulging (i)
Regulations state that retaining walls should start at 50cm below ground. However, Gabion walls lower than 2m are often placed directly on the ground or at a shallower depth.
Digging between 20cm-50cm or until the ground is firm should be adequate.
It is also possible to install
3m High Wall
Equipment Required
Use 1x1x1m, 1.5x1x1 & 2x1x1m baskets or visit our calculator page
All wire diameters are suitable, but we suggest 4mm+ if you would like to prevent bulging (i)
Remove softer top soils until you get to firmer subsoil
Replace with 10-30 cm of type 1 basecourse
Compact the basecourse
Most low-level and/or wide columns do not usually require a foundation. If your column is 1m+ or narrow you may need a concrete foundation for added stability
1.5m+ height
Foundations should be 500mm below ground to prevent slipping.
Add a 30-50cm layer of type 1 basecourse
Compact the basecourse using a plate compactor
Configuration
[image showing good connection + 2 most comment installations]
As long as the cages are installed next to each other and they are attached securely using helicals or tying wire you can use different configurations
Gabions are delivered flat-packed with the sides, bottom, and lid clipped together. Upon arrival, the corners of the gabions should be attached to complete the assembly.
Helicals can be purchased separately. 4x helicals are required for assembly
per gabion (one for each corner).PRO: looks uniform and quick to install CON: additional cost
Gabion clips are available in bulk quantities. Advised for use by professionals
PRO: discrete / hidden CON: requires a plier or electronic tool
FAQs
What is a Retaining Wall?
They are a structure designed to keep earth within the desired area. Often built to prevent soil from sloping into unwanted areas such as motorways.
How expensive are they compared to other options?
They are cheaper than most other construction materials such as concrete that might be used for retaining earth in the same way. They are also very easy to use reducing the need for pay for extra manpower.
What depth should the structure have?
If it’s going to be freestanding, the depth should be at least half of the overall height in order to keep it stable. If it’s going to be reinforced with metal frames for example, you can get away with a smaller depth.
