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rockies
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# Posted: 24 Apr 2018 20:34 - Edited by: rockies
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I've seen many architectural shows where the homeowners are out in the middle of nowhere and want to build a strong rock wall but can't afford a mason so they build a heavy duty wire cage and fill it with loose rock.
Apparently this is called a "gabion" wall.
https://gardendrum.com/2012/04/21/how-to-build-a-gabion-wall/
I thinks it's a great way to enclose an area and use up a lot of small chunks or rock at the same time. If you make the wall about 18-21 inches tall you can even use it as a seating bench.
US suppliers:
https://www.gabion1.com/
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Princelake
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# Posted: 25 Apr 2018 14:04
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They use to build these out into the water to help keep beaches from washing away. I remember helping my grandfather and dad rebuild some on our camp beach on lake superior... thinking back it was child labour lol. Don't think they'd be aloud now for that purpose
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cspot
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# Posted: 25 Apr 2018 21:47
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I don't think using them as a seating bench would be a good idea unless you like wire in your butt. 
They are functional and are good for stream banks and such to stabilize erosion and can be used to make a wall. Like you said in remote areas where there is alot of rock they could be quite affordable. Over time they will need replaced.
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rockies
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# Posted: 26 Apr 2018 18:06 - Edited by: rockies
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I would add a flat stone top, or maybe a DIY concrete slab to sit on. That would also prevent a lot of rain from soaking down into the cage.
Apparently the Galfan coating they put on the wire allows it to last a long time, and if you choose the welded wire mesh in a thicker gauge like 4G (as opposed to the more flexible woven mesh) it can last up to 100 years in a rural environment
http://www.gabion1.com.au/gabion-wire-mesh-size/
https://www.gabion1.com/gabion-life-expectancy/
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cspot
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# Posted: 26 Apr 2018 19:28
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More of an issue of needing replaced when used in a place to control erosion like a stream bank. Debris hitting them will take a toll on the wire.
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