How to Make Gabion Steps

Below you will find a detailed guide on how to make gabion steps.

• Experience Required: Medium
• Tools Required: Protective gloves, Tape measure, Shovel, Spirit level, Hammer, Wire cutters, Screws, Plate compactor
• Materials Required: 5mm Gabion baskets, Stone, Timber treads, Helicals, Tying wire or Cable ties, Type 1 gravel, Geotextile (optional)

Step 1) Measure Up Your Area

• Begin by examining the area where you plan to place the new steps.
• Measure the length and width of your structure according to the available space.
• Also, measure the total height (rise) to get an idea of how many steps you’ll need in total.

 

Step 2) Calculate Gabion Sizes

• Sketch a plan for your stair following these guidelines: each step’s height (rise) should be around 15-22.5cm & each step’s depth (tread) should be around 30cm.

• Calculate gabion sizes and quantity needed.
• Remember to calculate how much stone you’ll need.

 

Step 3) Mark the Area

• Mark the area with spray paint or strings.
• Remember to add an extra 10cm on each side for proper alignment and stability.

 

Step 4) Create Foundation

• Make sure the stair foundation is level for stability.
• Also, incorporate a slight slope towards the front for drainage to prevent water from collecting.

 

Step 5) Add Basecourse

• Add a layer of Type 1 gravel according to the height of the structure:

  • For 1m high stairs, use 10cm of basecourse.
  • For 2m high stairs, use 20cm of basecourse.
  • For stairs 3m high or taller, use 30cm of basecourse.

 

Step 6) Compact Basecourse

• Use a plate compactor to compact the basecourse thoroughly, ensuring stability.

 

Step 7) Add Geotextile (Optional)

• Line the bottom and sides of the structure with geotextile fabric to prevent soil erosion.

 

Step 8) Fold up Baskets

• Fold up and secure the vertical corners of each basket with 2 cable ties: 1 at top and 1 at the bottom of the corner.

 

Step 9) Position the Baskets

• Position the boxes starting with the largest one at the back and working towards the shortest one. 
• Make sure to push the adjoining corners as close together as possible.
• The lids should be folded upwards, make sure they’re not falling behind the baskets.

 

Step 10) Attach them Together

• Secure the corners of the adjoining steps with a helical to prevent movement. 
• The helical should connect the corners of two gabions.

 

Step 11) Trim Excess

• Cut off the excess lengths of helical where needed.
• Fold the ends of the helicals downwards with pliers.
• Additionally, cut off any excess geotextile.

 

Step 12) Fill with Stones

• Fill each gabion basket with the calculated amount of stones. 
• Leave a slight gap at the top to allow space for the timber.

 

Step 13) Attach Timber Treads

• Place a timber on top of the stones on both sides of the stair. Close and secure the lid with a piece of wire or cable ties. 
• Position timber treads onto the lid and screw them to the timber under the wires. 
• Repeat these steps until you complete the process.

 

Step 14) Check for Stability

• Inspect the completed garden stairs and check for stability. 
• Make any necessary adjustments to ensure safety and durability.

 

WARNINGS

• When considering how to build gabion steps, it’s advisable to opt for 5mm baskets over the 3mm and 4mm ones to prevent bulging, thus ensuring structural stability and strength.
• To avoid water accumulation and any accidents, maintain a slight slope on step treads and plan drainage, especially for sloped garden stairs.
• While deciding how to build garden steps, make sure to maintain consistent height, width, and, in the case of straight stairs, also depth, to avoid stumbles or falls.

 

FURTHER READING

• How to Assemble a Gabion Basket – Instructions on how to assemble baskets
• How to Fill Gabions – Learn how to fill cages using different methods
• Stone Quantity for Gabions – A guide showing you how to calculate the required stone quantity for baskets