Pros and Cons of Gabion Seawalls

Dealing with soil erosion is an all too common issue without a sea wall. Over time, this problem will only worsen, which is why working with a company specializing in gabion seawall construction is essential. A gabion wall is a durable choice that can play a critical role in shore erosion prevention. Learning about the pros and cons of gabion walls is always essential if you consider this option for water erosion control.

What is a Gabion Seawall?

A gabion wall consists of large cages built with galvanized steel wire mesh and steel. You can either fill a gabion sea wall with boulders, sand, or stones for stability. Gabion walls are especially effective at protecting shorelines by limiting the impact of erosion. These sea walls were invented in the late 19th century, as they are a highly effective option for shore stabilization. Hiring a contractor specializing in gabion wall construction is an excellent choice for protecting your shoreline.

What are the Different Types of Gabion Walls?

A gabion sea wall is available in three different styles. The most common version is a gabion wall with galvanized steel wire mesh placed between the walls. Another option is a gabion wall with sand, crushed stone, or gravel glued in a specific pattern. This option is often used for creating temporary dams on flood control projects. The third type of gabion wall can be filled with stone or concrete and placed on the ground without wire mesh.

Advantages of Gabion Walls

A gabion wall is an excellent investment for water erosion control due to its wide range of benefits. One of the main advantages of a gabion wall is that they are relatively easy to install if you hire a company specializing in gabion wall construction. Gabions are also highly durable, resistant to strong winds and have a long lifespan. You can also choose a variety of designs to limit soil erosion.

Disadvantages of Gabion Walls

Learning about gabion wall’s pros and cons is always a good idea before you make such an investment. One of the disadvantages of gabion walls is that the installation costs are higher compared to other types of retaining walls. You will also need to perform regular maintenance, such as refilling them with fresh stones and inspecting any existing structures for signs of damage. However, maintaining a gabion wall is pretty simple compared to other options.

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What is the Installation Process for a Gabion Sea Wall?

Large trenches will need to be dug to install gabion walls near a shoreline. A gabion wall construction company can easily handle this job while determining how many gabions are required to complete the task. A sea wall contractor will also choose the size of the wire basket before installing blocks. A gabion wall can be built with various materials, such as wood, stone, concrete, earth, cement, or even plastic. Discussing your options can help you choose the best one to meet your needs.

How Much is Gabion Wall Construction?

A gabion wall can range from $9 to $15 per square foot. However, installing a gabion wall often

depends on the type of stone, as rare stones are much more expensive. Getting a quote from different contractors in your area can help you determine the best gabion wall that meets your needs without going over budget.

How Long Will Gabion Walls Last?

The lifespan of gabions is primarily dependent on the environment. These walls can often last more than 30 years in coastal regions with moderate salinity. On the other hand, you can expect these sea walls to last around 15 years with high humidity and salinity. Scheduling ongoing maintenance for gabion walls is key to extending their lifespan and reducing the need for repair work.

Closing Thoughts

A gabion wall is an excellent choice for limiting soil erosion, and it’s a highly durable material that can last for decades. You can also select from a wide range of design options and many different materials. Hiring a contractor specializing in gabion wall construction is critical in ensuring everything happens smoothly and that you are well-pleased with the results. Ultimately, a gabion wall offers great water erosion control and shore stabilization for anyone needing a long-term solution.