Instructions

Gabion cages are built fairly quickly as follows. Photos are based upon a 1m x 1m x 1m gabion basket (the same method applies to all size cages). This cage is based on 6 panels of 1m x 1m, 12 of 1m long spirals and 8 stiffeners.
Tools needed: 2 heavy pliers for bending of wire.
- Take a 1m x 1m panel and join it to another 1m x 1m panel using a spiral.
- Bend the top end of spiral over using the two pliers (see photo), this will stop the spiral from unravelling. Continue this until the cage is complete minus the lid.
- Using the 8 stiffeners, place at corners half way down. Stiffeners should be used in each corner, approximately 300mm from top and bottom. If making a 2m long cage you will also need a centre panel (baffle), use stiffeners on this also. The ends of the stiffeners can be closed using pliers.
- Place cage on prepared base (suitably compacted and with geotextile such as a Syntex Nonwoven underneath) and fill with rock. Lid is secured by lacing remaining spirals.
Tips

Gabion rock is very heavy so allow for 2 tonnes of rock per m3 (a single 1m x 1m x 1m basket).

The type of rock you choose can be from basalt for retaining walls to sandstone or broken brick for decorative gabions. You may also use a combination of different stones to give an effect. See some of our photographs in the projects section for ideas.