When you’re adding a retaining wall to your property to stabilise the soil and improve the landscape, you have different options to choose from. For local property owners, gabion and rock retaining walls in Melbourne are two popular options, but how do you choose between them?
Gabion retaining walls are made from rock-filled gabions stacked to create a structure, while rock walls are natural stone walls, either dry stacked or mortared. To help you decide, we’ll break down what to consider before making a choice
Gabion Vs Rock Retaining Walls Comparison
1
Strength and Flexibility
Gabion walls offer greater structural flexibility because they’re held in place with steel cages, making them suitable for unstable ground. Meanwhile, rock walls are less flexible because they rely on the stability and weight of bigger stones.
2
Drainage
For areas with extensive rainfall, gabion walls let water flow through naturally, improving drainage and reducing hydrostatic pressure. Meanwhile, rock retaining walls may need additional drainage solutions, especially if they’re mortared, to keep water from pooling around the foundation.
3
Appearance
Appearance-wise, rock retaining walls in Melbourne provide a traditional, natural look that blends in with the landscape. On the other hand, gabions look more modern with their rugged and industrial appearance.
4
Cost and Speed
The type of retaining wall you choose can significantly affect how much the project costs and how long it takes to complete. Gabion retaining walls take less time and cost less to install because of their design. But with rock retaining walls, you can expect higher material and labour costs, and a longer timeframe to complete the project.
5
Longevity
Rock retaining walls in Melbourne can last several decades with little maintenance because of their weather resistance and durable structure. Rock-filled gabions are also highly durable, although the mesh wire can corrode over time without the right treatment.
What to Consider When Choosing Between Gabion and Rock Retaining Walls
Soil Type
The type of soil on your property is a deciding factor in whether you should build gabion or rock retaining walls. Gabion walls are suitable for areas with wet and unstable soils because of their permeability and flexibility. But rock retaining walls need stable foundations and precise construction, making them best suited for granular soil with more sand and gravel.
Drainage Requirements
Depending on the wall type you choose, you may need to build additional drainage systems. Steel mesh gabions are naturally permeable, allowing water to pass through and reduce hydrostatic pressure. If you choose rock walls, then additional drainage like gravel backfill and weep holes are essential to let water through.
Landscape Appearance
Your property’s architecture can influence the type of retaining walls you choose to avoid a mismatch. With their natural appearance, rock retaining walls look good in properties with traditional architecture and outdoor spaces. Gabions are more modern and industrial, perfect for contemporary residential or commercial properties.
Maintenance
You should choose between gabion and rock retaining walls depending on how often you can maintain them. Gabions need inspection for corrosion over time, while their lifespan depends on wire quality. Although rock walls require repointing or resetting with time, they can last for decades with the right drainage systems.
Permits
Any retaining wall with a height that exceeds 1 metre above the ground requires a building approval from the local council. And if the wall is under 1 metre and meets requirements like not being closer than 1.5 metres to another building or retaining wall, you don’t need approval. Gabions are preferred for shorter wall applications, while rock retaining walls are strong enough to withstand greater loads.
Consult Local Specialists for Rock Retaining Walls in Melbourne
When deciding between gabion and rock retaining walls in Melbourne, property owners have to consider factors like height, soil type, drainage, and maintenance. Gabion walls are preferable for properties that need shorter walls while staying on a budget and quick timeline. Rock retaining walls are highly durable, but better suited for applications with additional drainage systems and areas with granular soil.
If you’d like to know which of these two types are the right choice for you, consult local retaining wall experts in Melbourne. At Jamesco Group, we specialise in building durable gabion and rock retaining walls built to last. Get in touch with us to book a consultation.