Gabions have long been recognized as versatile solutions in the fields of civil engineering, landscaping, and water control. These wire mesh containers, filled with stones or similar materials, serve structural and aesthetic purposes across a wide range of applications—from retaining walls and riverbanks to decorative architectural elements. As the demand for more durable, sustainable, and visually appealing construction options increases, understanding the differences between gabion types has become essential for engineers, architects, and project planners alike.
In this article, we explore and compare the most common types of gabions, examining their structural characteristics, materials, coating methods, and ideal use cases.
The gabion box is the most widely used type and consists of rectangular wire mesh cages typically made from galvanized or Galfan-coated steel wire. These units are filled with stones and stacked to form gravity walls, embankment reinforcements, or protective barriers. The flexibility of double-twisted hexagonal mesh allows it to deform under pressure without breaking, which is ideal for uneven ground conditions or long-term structural shifts.
Gabion mattresses are thinner and wider than standard gabion boxes, typically used to prevent erosion in riverbeds, channels, and slopes. Their flat profile enables them to cover large surface areas without altering water flow or slope geometry. They are often used in combination with gabion boxes in integrated erosion control systems.
Unlike the traditional twisted-wire structure, welded gabions use rigid steel mesh panels joined at precise angles. This structure provides a clean, modern appearance and high load-bearing capacity. Welded gabions are commonly found in architectural landscaping projects, outdoor furniture bases, retaining wall facades, and other applications where aesthetics are as important as function.
To enhance corrosion resistance, some gabions use Galfan-coated wire—a zinc-aluminum alloy that offers significantly better durability than traditional galvanized wire. These gabions are especially suited for coastal, humid, or chemically aggressive environments, where longer service life and structural integrity are critical.
PVC-coated gabions feature an additional protective plastic layer over the galvanized or Galfan wire. This coating not only increases weather and corrosion resistance but also adds color flexibility, making them ideal for visible landscape applications, decorative retaining walls, or areas exposed to saltwater and industrial pollutants.
With multiple types available, selecting the right one depends on application, strength requirements, durability, and aesthetics. Below we compare the most popular options to help you choose:
| Gabion Type | Structure Height / Shape | Wire Mesh Type | Surface Treatment | Typical Applications |
| Gabion Box | Rectangular, ≥1 meter | Double-twisted mesh | Galvanized / Galfan | Retaining walls, slope protection, bank erosion |
| Gabion Mattress | Flat, 0.17–0.5 m thick | Double-twisted mesh | Galfan / PVC-coated | Channel lining, riverbed protection, slope surfacing |
| Welded Gabion | Variable, modular panels | Welded square grid | Galvanized / PVC-coated | Architectural landscape, facade cladding, fencing |
| Galfan-Coated Gabion | All shapes and sizes | Twisted or welded mesh | Zn–Al Galfan (95/5) | Coastal areas, acid rain zones, aggressive soil |
| PVC-Coated Gabion | All shapes and sizes | Twisted or welded mesh | Colored PVC over galvanizing | Decorative retaining walls, marine zones, wet climates |
At Shitai, we offer a full range of gabion solutions—boxes, mattresses, welded cages, Galfan/PVC coatings, and custom sizes. Whether you’re working on erosion control, architectural landscaping, or functional retaining structures, our expertise and production capacity can meet your needs. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and receive a personalized quote for your next gabion project!
For high-load-bearing applications like retaining walls or bridge abutments, gabion boxes or welded gabions offer the most reliable solutions. If the structure needs to follow irregular terrain or accommodate settling ground, twisted-wire gabions are better suited due to their flexibility.
In harsh environments with high humidity, salinity, or chemical exposure, corrosion protection becomes paramount. Galfan-coated and PVC-coated gabions significantly extend the lifespan of the structure, reducing long-term maintenance costs.
For modern public spaces, residential landscaping, and commercial exteriors, welded gabions or PVC-coated gabions provide clean lines and customizable finishes. These options allow designers to balance form with function while maintaining durability.
Gabion mattresses are cost-effective for large-area coverage, especially in erosion control applications. Welded gabions, while more expensive, offer ease of installation and better visual appeal. PVC and Galfan coatings increase upfront costs but pay off with longer service life.
At Shitai, we specialize in producing a full range of gabion systems tailored to your project needs. Whether you are constructing a large-scale retaining wall, reinforcing a riverbank, or enhancing a public space with modern landscaping elements, we offer flexible manufacturing, high-quality coatings, and precision mesh types to meet engineering and design standards.
With years of experience in metal fabrication and wire mesh systems, we provide not only products but also expert support in gabion selection, structural advice, and on-time delivery.
If you're looking for reliable gabion solutions backed by quality manufacturing and technical expertise, contact our team to request a quote or consultation. We will help you select the most suitable gabion type for your environment, budget, and project scope. Shitai is your trusted partner in durable, customizable, and professional-grade gabion systems.
