Rockfall Netting is wire mesh netting which is used to prevent rocks from falling onto the road, railways and other structures. Rockfall protection netting with a PVC coating can be used in aggressive environments.
Modular Gabion Systems' welded wire mesh provides essential protection where the continuous erosion of slopes and rockfaces where loose debris and falling rock may create a risk to lives and property.
The mesh does not secure loose debris in place but rather retains it between the slope and the mesh, allowing it roll to the foot of the slope without risk of injury or damage.
Rockfall Netting is unrolled. or "draped," over the slope and secured with anchor bolts. Over time, rocks and debris will fall to the foot of the slope behind the steel mesh drapery. Rocks can then be collected in a trench of suitable dimensions, at the foot of the slope.
If desired, the mesh can be secured both at the top of the slope and at the foot of the slope with high strength cables. In this instance it is good practice to allow the lower cable to be loosened, in order that the collected debris can be removed safely.
What Is the Purpose of Rock Netting?
Rock netting contains soil, rocks and debris in areas prone to slides and slippage, which includes embankments, hills and slopes. The netting is made of a durable polymer or steel wire mesh and is used in places where the debris might land on people, animals, infrastructure or vehicles.
What Are the Benefits of Rock Netting?
Rock netting provides that extra barrier between rocks and debris and whatever is below it. Some of the benefits include:
Low visual impact: Rockfall netting is not as visible as other containment options, such as retainer walls, as they're designed to blend in with the surroundings. This ensures that natural environments such as hiking trails still maintain their natural beauty.
Increased safety: Rockfall netting that features a double-twist design ensures that the net can sustain sudden rock shock loads and absorb the rock fall energy. This ensures that the netting doesn't snap or warp under pressure, protecting those below.
Protection of assets: A building can sustain a lot of damage during a rock slide or fall event. Insurance companies require that property owners secure their properties as much as possible to prevent damage, and if there's a known risk of rock slides, protection is imperative. Rock netting provides effective protection for buildings against sudden rock falls.
Cost-effective: A woven wire mesh installation is more cost-effective than brick or cement walls or retainer systems. Wire mesh has lower material and labor costs and is faster and easier to install.
How Effective Is Rockfall Netting?
Rock fall netting effectively prevents rock falls as it addresses the potential problem at the source. The rock fall netting is anchored to the rockface to prevent loose rocks and debris from forming, which is a prerequisite for a rock slide. The netting forms a protective barrier across to rock face. Because it's made of highly durable materials such as galvanized wire, they're used in a range of environments such as corrosive environments.
When Do You Need Rock Fall Protections?
Rock fall protection is not necessary for every situation where there's exposed rock or the potential for a rock slide. You will need rock fall protection in the following situations:
There is the potential for people to get hurt
The rock slide might damage infrastructure, construction or assets
Critical natural habitats might get destroyed
A slide may cause traffic flow issues or block roads
The rock slide might weaken the integrity of the surrounding infrastructure
What Type of Applications Is Rockfall Protection Used For?
A rock fall can endanger people and property, and if you're in an environment where this is a possibility, it's essential to consider your mesh wire rock fall netting options. Places that generally require rock fall protection include:
Nature trails and parks: Recreation areas in nature where there are exposed rock faces, such as cliffs and rock formations, may require rock fall netting.
Construction sites: Construction sites need to be secure, and during the construction process, there are many opportunities for loose gravel and rocks to dislodge, especially if there's demolition involved. Even when the property is past the demolition phase, accidents and hazards can happen, and the wire mesh creates that added layer of safety between the site and the outside world.
Roads: While winding roads through the mountainside may seem picturesque, rock slides can happen at any minute. Highways and other transport corridors need extra protection to protect people and vehicles.
Hilly or mountainous areas: Any building near rock faces and cliffs needs extra protection against potential rock falls.
At Gabion Supply, we believe that high-quality mesh wire rock fall netting can provide that added layer of security needed. We use a double-twist steel wire mesh to ensure durability and efficient energy disbursement should a rock fall occur.