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Jax Oleum is a game-changer in the world of wood treatment, offering an unparalleled combination of versatility, durability, and ease of use. Whether you’re a homeowner seeking to enhance the natural beauty of your timber floors or a craftsman restoring antique furniture, Jax Oleum single coat wood stain is the ideal solution for a variety of timber surfaces.

Versatility That Meets Every Need

One of the standout features of Jax Oleum is its versatility. Jax Oleum can be used on virtually any timber surface. From floors to furniture, countertops to decorative pieces, this stain adapts seamlessly to your needs. Its rich formulation penetrates deeply into the wood, enhancing the natural grain and character while providing a beautiful, even finish.

For homeowners looking to refresh their interiors, Jax Oleum is an excellent choice for wooden floors. It not only restores the vibrancy of aged wood but also offers protection against daily wear and tear. Additionally, it’s perfect for furniture projects, whether you’re staining a dining table, chairs, or shelving. Its ability to blend into any design style, from rustic to modern, makes it a versatile tool for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Durability for High-Traffic Areas

Durability is a critical factor when selecting a wood treatment, especially for surfaces that endure heavy use. Jax Oleum rises to the occasion by providing long-lasting protection for high-traffic areas such as living room floors, hallways, and kitchens. The single-coat application penetrates deeply, ensuring that the wood is well-protected from within.

For areas subject to even more wear, such as dining table tops or countertops, Jax Oleum’s performance can be elevated by pairing it with an additional sealer. This combination creates a robust barrier against spills, scratches, and other daily challenges, ensuring your wooden surfaces retain their beauty and functionality for years to come. With this added durability, Jax Oleum is also ideal for commercial spaces like cafes, restaurants, or retail shops, where wooden surfaces face constant use.

Enhancing Natural Beauty

One of the most appealing aspects of Jax Oleum is its ability to enhance the natural beauty of wood. Its advanced formula brings out the unique characteristics of each timber type, highlighting textures, knots, and grains. Jax Oleum enhances its authenticity, making it a favorite for those who appreciate the raw beauty of natural materials.

In the image above, the wooden dining table and parquet flooring showcase the transformative power of Jax Oleum. The stain enriches the timber’s tones, creating a cohesive and inviting aesthetic that ties the room together. Whether your goal is to achieve a modern grey finish or a warm, earthy hue, Jax Oleum offers a wide range of shades to suit your preferences.

Easy Application

Ease of application is another reason why Jax Oleum stands out. Its single-coat system simplifies the staining process, saving both time and effort. Whether you’re working on a large floor or intricate furniture, the quick-drying formula ensures a smooth, hassle-free experience. Plus, the stain’s eco-friendly composition makes it a safer option for indoor use, giving you peace of mind as you work.

Jax Oleum’s versatility allows it to adapt to any project, while its durability ensures lasting protection in high-traffic and well-used areas. Whether you’re treating floors, furniture, or decorative pieces, Jax Oleum brings out the best in your wood, enhancing its natural charm while safeguarding it for years to come. Choose Jax Oleum for a single-coat stain that truly delivers on all fronts.

Images: Twenty Twelve: Commercial & Lifestyle Photography

Demolition plays a crucial role in dam maintenance by facilitating the repair, renovation, or removal of structures to ensure the dam’s integrity, safety and functionality. Years of applied demolition research has enabled Jet Demolition to offer an integrated approach to dam rehabilitation.

Over time, dams can develop structural issues such as cracks, weakened spillways or compromised foundations. Demolition of damaged sections allows for the safe removal of deteriorated materials, making way for repairs or replacements. For example, partial demolition of a spillway may be necessary to replace it with more durable materials or to upgrade its capacity.

Dams built decades ago may not meet current safety standards or operational requirements. Demolition of outdated components such as control gates, overflow structures or auxiliary buildings is often necessary to modernise the dam. This process enables the installation of new technologies such as automated control systems or enhanced flood control measures.

Hybrid solutions are developed to suit specific, on-site conditions while protecting the structural integrity of the remaining concrete. Rehabilitation of dam walls usually requires demolition of redundant portions of monolithic  blocks. “Judicious selection of demolition methods and their application techniques are vital to a controlled and productive project,” comments Kate Bester, Contracts and Project Manager at Jet Demolition.

In certain instances, explosive demolition may be possible and appropriate. Various drilling and coring methods are then applied to generate blast holes of pre-determined depths, diameters, and alignments, in strict accordance with our in-house blast-design, where the nature of the works to be undertaken warrants controlled blasting of spillways and structural elements.

Detonation causes both shock wave and gas penetration energy transfer to concrete structures. Therefore, it is critical to ensure physical separation of the elements, combined with careful and considered selection of blasting applications, to ensure reliable and predictable results, without residual damage to the remaining concrete.

The company has successfully completed numerous dam wall demolition projects, both by explosive and mechanical means. Its range of dam-specific services include vertical and horizontal drilling and coring, blasting, diamond wire rope cutting and mechanical breaking using specialised demolition tools.

When a dam reaches the end of its useful life, or if it poses safety risks, full or partial demolition is required to decommission the structure safely. This process can involve the controlled explosive or mechanical removal of key components such as spillways or retaining walls to reduce the dam’s height or eliminate its water-retaining capabilities. Proper decommissioning through demolition ensures that the site is returned to a safe and environmentally stable condition.

Some older dams can negatively impact local ecosystems by disrupting natural water flows and fish migration patterns. In such cases, selective demolition can create openings for fish passage or restore natural riverine environments. This type of demolition is carefully planned to minimise ecological disturbance while achieving environmental restoration goals.

In response to changing environmental conditions or increased risk of natural disasters, demolition may be necessary to modify a dam’s structure, such as reinforcing its base or adding new spillways. These safety enhancements ensure the dam can withstand extreme events and continue to protect downstream communities.

Krazi Door was approached by an architect who required a custom-built garage door for a modern contemporary home. The project entailed not just a non-standard size, but a unique, tailored design that aligned with the architect’s vision for the house. The goal was to create a functional yet aesthetically compelling garage door that would complement the home’s cutting-edge architectural style, marrying form and function seamlessly. This one-of-a-kind custom garage door would serve as a statement piece while meeting the practical needs of the homeowners.

Design Requirements and Challenges:

The first challenge in this project was the need for a garage door that was bespoke in both size and design. The home, being modern and contemporary in style, had specific design elements that the garage door had to align with. The architect envisioned a sleek, minimalist design with clean lines, seamless integration with the overall exterior, and an elegant use of materials. The door needed to balance modern aesthetics with functional requirements such as durability, security, and ease of operation.

Another key factor was the use of materials that complemented the home’s exterior while providing the necessary strength and longevity for a garage door. The architect specified a desire for a design that avoided traditional, overused elements, such as visible hardware or overly ornate details. Instead, the aim was to keep the look refined and minimal, with a focus on high-quality, sustainable materials.

Collaborative Approach:

KD worked closely with the architect from the very outset of the project, engaging in detailed discussions to fully understand the vision and requirements for the garage door. From size specifications to the choice of materials and finish, every element was carefully considered. The garage door was designed to be not only a functional part of the home but a significant design feature that would stand out without overwhelming the structure.

In terms of dimensions, the garage door needed to be extra-large to accommodate the homeowner’s vehicles while maintaining proportionality with the house’s façade. Custom framing and hardware was required to ensure that the door would fit perfectly into the designated opening.

Materials:

The materials chosen for the garage door were high-grade aluminium. A special finish was applied to the aluminium, giving it a wood-like appearance set against a matt black background, which creates a striking contrast with the warm, modern aesthetic of the house. 

Outcome and Impact:

The custom-built garage door became a signature element of the home’s exterior, enhancing its modern, contemporary appeal. The seamless design and carefully chosen materials helped integrate the door into the overall architectural vision, allowing it to complement the home’s clean lines and sophisticated aesthetic. The final product not only fulfilled the functional requirements of the homeowner but also became a visual focal point, transforming what is often a utilitarian feature into an architectural highlight.

In conclusion, the collaboration between KD and the architect resulted in the creation of a one-of-a-kind garage door that blended innovation, craftsmanship, and style. The project exemplified the potential of custom design in elevating a home’s functionality and aesthetic, offering a tailored solution that met both practical and design needs.

The Southern African Institute of Steel Construction (SAISC) is prioritizing the quality and availability of steel for downstream businesses, acknowledging the potential impact of upstream challenges. CEO Amanuel Gebremeskel emphasizes the importance of a robust downstream sector, citing Canada as a model where strong fabrication continues despite the absence of large steel mills.

To ensure a consistent supply of high-quality steel, the SAISC is focusing on two key areas:

1. Enhanced Quality Standards: The SAISC is collaborating with the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) to develop and implement stringent quality standards. This includes establishing a SAISC “quality certification stamp” for companies that meet specific quality criteria and creating a database to assist designers in selecting appropriate steel products.
2. Strengthening Sustainability: The SAISC recognizes the need for improved sustainability within the steel sector. While steel is a recyclable and environmentally friendly material, older mills with outdated technology and reliance on coal-fired energy present significant environmental challenges. The SAISC encourages the adoption of more energy-efficient technologies and cleaner energy sources.

Furthermore, the SAISC is addressing the critical issue of skills loss within the sector. By developing a digital platform to share knowledge and expertise between experienced professionals and younger generations, the Institute aims to bridge the skills gap and ensure the continued growth of the industry.

The SAISC emphasizes the importance of collaboration and engagement among all stakeholders. By working together to address challenges related to quality, sustainability, and skills development, the South African steel industry can thrive and contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth.

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SAISC Prioritizes Quality and Sustainability in South African Steel Industry

The Southern African Institute of Steel Construction (SAISC) is taking a proactive approach to ensure a steady supply of high-quality steel for downstream businesses, according to CEO Amanuel Gebremeskel.

“We are most concerned about ensuring a steady supply and good diversity of steel in our market,” says Gebremeskel. “This must be predicated on quality and not where steel comes from.”

Recognizing the potential impact of upstream challenges, the SAISC is focusing on two key areas:

• Enhanced Quality Standards: The SAISC is collaborating with the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) to develop and implement stringent quality standards. This includes creating a SAISC “quality certification stamp” for companies that meet specific criteria. “In addition, a database will be established to assist designers in selecting appropriate steel products,” explains Gebremeskel.
• Strengthening Sustainability: The SAISC acknowledges the need for a more sustainable steel sector. “Older mills with outdated technology present significant environmental challenges,” Gebremeskel says. The Institute is encouraging the adoption of cleaner energy sources and more energy-efficient technologies throughout the industry.

Building a Bridge for the Future

The SAISC is also addressing the critical issue of skills loss. By developing a digital platform to share knowledge and expertise, the Institute aims to bridge the gap between experienced professionals and younger generations.

A Call to Action

“We would like to energise everyone to work together to solve the problems that can be solved,” concludes Gebremeskel. For more information on the SAISC’s initiatives and how you can get involved, visit their website at www.saisc.co.za. The SAISC is committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure a thriving and sustainable steel industry in South Africa.

Saint-Gobain has been awarded the “Top Employer Global” certification for the tenth consecutive year, joining an elite group of 17 companies worldwide to achieve this distinction in 2025. Additionally, Saint-Gobain South Africa has proudly received this certification for the 11th year in a row!

Saint-Gobain has once again proven its dedication to excellence in the workplace, earning the “Top Employer” certification in South Africa for the 11^th consecutive year. This recognition underscores the company’s consistent commitment to creating an exceptional working environment for its employees. Globally, Saint-Gobain also celebrates being certified as a “Top Employer Global” for the 10th year in a row, a milestone achieved through its dedication to empowering the 160,000 women and men who make up the Group.

Among the 20 criteria analysed by the Top Employers Institute, Saint-Gobain has made notable progress in 11. Highlights include improvements in sustainability (+2.2%), employee well-being (+1.76%), rewards and recognition (+1.03%), and career opportunities (+0.75%), reflecting the Group’s continuous efforts to enhance working conditions and value its teams.

Saint-Gobain also stands out with exemplary results in areas that underpin its long-term strategy:

• “Ethics and Integrity” (100%), aligned with the Group’s principles of behavior and action, outlined in a document shared with every new hire;
• “Purpose and Values” (99.21%), driven by its purpose, MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER HOME;
• “Corporate Strategy” (98.25%), reflecting a clear and inspiring vision;
• “Learning” (93.25%), showcasing the Group’s ongoing commitment to skill development.
•  

At Saint-Gobain, employee pride is a defining trait, with 89% of the Group’s teams expressing pride in being part of the company. In South Africa, this certification highlights Saint-Gobain’s efforts to ensure a fulfilling, inclusive, and supportive workplace aligned with the Group’s purpose of “Making the World a Better Home.”

“We are incredibly proud to be recognised as a Top Employer, as it is testament to our commitment to providing an empowered and inclusive working environment for our employees. This success comes from our ability to collaborate, learn, and grow together. We know that by building together, we can achieve more and reach our goals. At Saint-Gobain, our people are our greatest asset and remain a key pillar and priority within the Sub-Saharan Africa region. This recognition highlights our dedication to not only empowering our workforce in South Africa but also across the entire African continent. This achievement is a great honor, and we are proud of the collective efforts that have brought us here.” Says Fanie Vos, HR Director for Saint-Gobain Africa.

Saint-Gobain’s sustained success as a Top Employer highlights the company’s commitment to providing a world-class working environment. As the company moves forward into another year, it remains dedicated to inspiring and supporting its employees while leading the industry in innovation and sustainability.

ABOUT SAINT-GOBAIN GROUP

Worldwide leader in light and sustainable construction, Saint-Gobain designs, manufactures and distributes materials and services for the construction and industrial markets. Its integrated solutions for the renovation of public and private buildings, light construction and the decarbonization of construction and industry are developed through a continuous innovation process and provide sustainability and performance. The Group’s commitment is guided by its purpose, “MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER HOME”.

€47.9 billion in sales in 2023

160,000 employees, locations in 79 countries

Committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050

Saint-Gobain is now present in 10 countries in Africa, namely South Africa, Zimbabwe, Angola, Botswana, Mauritius, Kenya, Ethiopia, Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Nigeria.

 For more details on Saint-Gobain,  

visit www.saint-gobain.com & www.saint-gobain-africa.com

28 FEBRUARY – 2 MARCH 2025 | KYALAMI GRAND PRIX CIRCUIT & INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE

If you love your space, the Johannesburg HOMEMAKERS Fair is the ultimate destination to kick-start your home’s transformation journey. From 28 February to 2 March 2025, the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit and International Convention Centre will host three days of inspiration, expertise, and creativity to bring your home dreams to life.

Michelle Crouwkamp, Head of Events at HOMEMAKERS, shares that after more than 30 years, the team remains deeply committed to the Home Improvement (HIP) industry. “With hundreds of exhibits to explore, the Fair offers a rich blend of inspiration, ideas, and solutions for every area of your home. More than just an exhibition, it’s an opportunity to dream big, explore options, gather comparative quotes, and make confident decisions—all while enjoying a memorable experience for the entire family.”

Each year, the dedicated organising team works to elevate the experience, ensuring an exceptional event for both exhibitors and visitors. From convenient parking and a smooth ticketing process to a diverse selection of exhibitors, delicious food options, and top-tier venue amenities, every detail is carefully crafted to achieve excellence.

Crouwkamp describes an innovative layout for the 2025 event, with exhibitors thoughtfully organised into distinct halls.

• On Level 3, Hall A transforms into the Experiential Pavilion, where products engage all the senses—touch, feel, smell, and taste. For food enthusiasts, the Eatery offers a culinary journey of artisanal delights, including wines, sauces, olives, cheeses, and more. Our immensely popular and inspiring Air Fryer Activation Area will also be located here.

• On Level 2, Hall B focuses on soft furnishings and interior décor and Artisanal, a showcase of proudly South African craftsmanship with designer tableware, candles, and homeware. Located next door Hall C serves as a home for both large custom-built displays and smaller, bespoke items. An Art Wall in Hall C will showcase work from talented artists, adding a creative touch.

• The ground floor hosts Hall D, the show’s centrepiece, featuring experts in the latest trends in home improvement and renovation.

• The Food Truck area offers a delicious selection of festival fare, making it the perfect spot to relax, enjoy live music, and plan your next move.

The Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit and International Convention Centre has established itself as the ideal venue for an expo of this scale. The venue offers world-class, naturally lit exhibition halls and top-tier amenities, providing an excellent setting for the multitude of exhibitors and visitors. Conveniently located in Midrand, it offers easy access from both Johannesburg and Pretoria.

Crouwkamp concludes that exhibitors consistently deliver both popular solutions and cutting-edge trends. “The 2025 Johannesburg HOMEMAKERS Fair promises to meet every homeowner’s needs, serving as a trusted platform for industry suppliers and homeowners to connect. As the premier event for home lifestyle and improvement, we can’t wait to share our inspiration and expertise with you to dream, decorate and renovate.”

General Info:

Show dates: 28 February to 2 March 2025

Show times: Fri 10h00 – 18h00 | Sat & Sun 09h00 – 18h00

Tickets can be purchased from www.homemakersonline.co.za/jhbfair/ or from our ticketing partner TIXSA www.tixsa.co.za.

Entrance: 

Adults: 130 | Pensioners: R80 | Scholars: R30 | Bestie’s Pass: R200 – 2 Adults Friday & Online Tickets Only | Weekend Pass: R240 | Family Pass: R270 – 2 Adults & 2 Children

Parking: R20

Venue: Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre, Cnr R55 &, Allandale Rd, Kyalami Estate, Midrand

Follow us:

Twitter:                @SAHomemakers

Facebook:           https://www.facebook.com/HOMEMAKERSfair/

Instagram:          https://www.instagram.com/homemakersfair/

Website:              https://www.homemakersonline.co.za/jhbfair/

See our 2024 Highlights Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BmmyfB2YnGQ

For more information phone 086 111 4663 or email expo@homemakers-sa.co.za.

Online ecosystems are in a constant state of evolution. Algorithms shift, social media platforms rise and fade, and artificial intelligence reveals new ways to engage in cyberspace. As digital culture progresses, the lines between virtual and physical environments blur, creating a reality that is uniquely its own. In response, Plascon has unveiled a dynamic colour family, titled Bright, that forms part of its hybridity-themed 2025 colour forecast.

The Bright colour family stands out by exploring the intersection of similar contrasting realities, showcasing a dazzling mix of soft neons and vivid fluorescents that reflect today’s zeitgeist. The colours draw inspiration from the Dopamine Decor trend, a playful and personalised approach to interior styling that boosts mood. Psychological research shows that light and bright tones can evoke positive chemical responses in our brains, enhancing the production of dopamine: a neurotransmitter crucial for reward, motivation, and regulating mood and movement.

Yellow, often linked to happiness, is exemplified by Crazy Daisy (Y4-A1-1). This colour, reminiscent of emojis or egg yolks, brings a lighthearted touch, much like the electric orange of Good Day Sunshine (O6-A1-1) and the zesty green of Stylish Lime (Y7-A1-1). Leveraging the power of contrasts, this colour family includes five pared-back tones that carry the same extroverted essence. The pastel peach of Morning Crescent (O6-A2-1) and the light lemon of Namaqua Daisy (Y4-A2-1) offer soft yet striking variations of their more saturated counterparts.

‘The need for uplifting interiors is just as relevant in South Africa as it is worldwide. Bright colours that celebrate our nation’s rich cultural tapestry foster a strong sense of belonging and identity, while also instilling a sense of hope in a challenging socioeconomic environment,’ says Plascon Brand Manager Kristel Dreyer.

‘In times of difficulty, these bold colours can serve as a reminder of resilience and vitality, encouraging communities to embrace positivity and envision a brighter future. Locals are increasingly incorporating bold hues into their homes and commercial spaces, and we’re excited to see how this trend continues to evolve in the coming year.’

Plascon’s Bright colour family celebrates unexpected pairings and captivating tones that are both versatile and eye-catching, poised to make a statement as accents or infuse a space with bright intensity. Lapis Blue (B6-B1-1) offers a cool, chalky alternative to cobalt and serves as a grounding element, alongside the rich, dazzling Passion Red (101) and the strong eggplant hue of Plum Sensation (P4-B1-1). Together, these colours are designed to replace traditional black or navy, and introduce a contemporary twist to the basics.

In contrast, the soft lavender of Rain Lily (P1-B2-2), the subtle yellow of Frozen Limeade (Y7-A2-3) and the gentle Green Glass (81) provide fresh and invigorating alternatives to traditional neutrals. These modern interpretations of pastel colours should not be underestimated; they possess the ability to completely transform the atmosphere of any room or outdoor space where you might not expect to see them.

The Bright colour family invites you to embrace the brilliant interplay of colour in your space. Whether you’re drawn to the magnetic exuberance of the intense brights or the soft elegance of their counterparts, Plascon’s vision inspires you to reimagine your surroundings and transform them into unique expressions of joy and creativity.

For free advice on how to use the Plascon 2025 Colour Forecast or any other Plascon colours, contact the Plascon Colour Advice team via email: ColourAdvice@kansaiplascon.co.za.

Visit www.plasconcolour.co.za for more information.

where safety meets style

Designing a family-friendly bathroom doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style. With thoughtful design choices and the right fixtures, you can create a space that caters to everyone—from toddlers exploring independence to adults appreciating modern elegance. Achieving this balance requires a careful blend of safety, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.

One of the most important considerations in a family bathroom is ensuring a safe environment for younger children. Features such as smooth, rounded sanitaryware help to minimise the risk of bumps and bruises, while non-slip tiles or flooring are essential for preventing slips in wet areas like the bath or shower. Safety can also be integrated seamlessly into stylish design with innovations such as temperature-controlled mixers, like the hansgrohe Finoris Faucet. Its sleek geometric design and easy-to-use handles ensure safety without sacrificing visual appeal.

Balancing modern trends with practical considerations is key to creating a bathroom that works for all family members. Timeless design choices, such as neutral tones and classic shapes, ensure the space remains stylish as your family grows. Adaptable solutions, like modular furniture and storage, provide flexibility, while multi-functional layouts cater to varying age groups. For example, installing vanities at different heights allows younger children to reach their own sink while older family members have their own designated space. Durable materials that withstand daily wear and tear ensure your bathroom stays fresh and functional for years to come.

hansgrohe offers innovative solutions that make prioritising safety easier without compromising style. The iBox Universal 2, for instance, streamlines the installation process while providing watertight protection against water damage. For consistent water temperature and scald prevention, the ShowerSelect Thermostat is both practical and elegant. Jocolino Shower Heads, made from non-metallic materials, remain cool to the touch, making them ideal for children, while discreet grab bars provide subtle support for little ones without detracting from the overall design.

Encouraging independence in young children is another essential aspect of a family bathroom. Features such as lower vanities, step stools, and non-slip mats can help children feel confident navigating their daily routines. Open storage solutions, like low-level shelves and hooks, ensure that essentials are easily accessible to little hands while maintaining an organised space for the whole family.

Keeping the bathroom clutter-free is vital in a busy household, and clever storage solutions can help maintain a sleek, modern aesthetic. Wall-mounted shelves maximise floor space, while basket organisers neatly store toys, towels, and toiletries. Built-in drawers provide a safe place for cleaning supplies and other items you’d rather keep out of sight.

A family bathroom should be designed to adapt to the changing needs of your household. With versatile fixtures, durable materials, and a layout that grows with your family, the space can remain functional, stylish, and safe for all stages of life.

hansgrohe’s innovative products make creating a bathroom that seamlessly blends elegance and practicality easier than ever. Whether providing safety for the youngest members of your family or offering modern luxury for adults, a well-designed family bathroom can be a sanctuary for everyone to enjoy.

The traditional role of gabions in constructing engineered systems, like mass gravity retaining walls, is now increasingly crossing over into parallel applications outside the mainstream civils industry that include landscaping and architecture. Alastair Currie (IMIESA magazine), speaks to Louis Cheyne, managing director of Gabion Baskets, about current trends.

One of the key drivers locally and internationally is the ongoing refinement of square welded mesh panels, which provide a flat finish particularly well suited for wall cladding and feature walls,” explains Cheyne. “The natural appeal of the rock fill used to form gabions has also been a key influencer for landscapers and architects, along with durability and aesthetic benefits.”

Conventional hexagonal double-twisted woven mesh gabion systems can achieve the same effect, but their performance characteristics are different. Welded mesh is intentionally rigid, whereas woven mesh is designed to flex. The latter is particularly important for applications like submerged riverine retaining walls, where welded mesh would fail. However, both woven and welded mesh can be specified for land-based mass gravity retaining walls, but choosing the hexagonal woven mesh option is the logical choice given the lower cost at scale, unless there’s a specific design requirement.

DIMENSIONAL WIRE TOLERANCES

Therefore, the starting point for choosing a woven or welded option is dependent on the application and thereafter the ultimate result required, which comes down to the accepted dimensional wire stretch tolerances.

Welded mesh panels – given their intentional rigidity – must comply to industry standard tolerances in a range from 0,5 mm to 0,10 mm. However, with woven mesh the acceptable variance is greater at a threshold of around 5%. The reason for this is the need to make provision for the inherent nominal expansion and contraction of woven mesh systems when bracing and tensioning baskets during installation.

“In our view, however, 5% is too high, and our woven mesh systems and design recommendations make provision for a maximum 2,5% variability,” Cheyne continues. “This of course is dependent on correct installation and rock filling techniques. When perfectly executed, the geometry all comes together, whether it’s a gabion staircase, a weir or a retaining wall. For predominately non-engineered structures, welded mesh takes this a step further.”

WELDED MESH DIVERSIFICATION

Historically, Gabion Baskets first entered the welded mesh market with a 75 mm x 75 mm panel product composed of 3 mm diameter Class A galvanised wire. This was followed by 50 mm x 100 mm, and 50 mm x 50 mm panels to meet growing demand. In all cases, products can now be specified either with 3 mm or 4 mm diameter wire within a tensile strength range of 350 to 550 MPa.

“A thicker wire specification provides far greater rigidity and lends itself to the creation of new product lines. For, example, our new gabion barrier systems – employed for tasks like flood emergency mitigation and military protection – use a 75 x 75 mm panel with a 4 mm wire. Lined with a geotextile basket sock, these barriers can be filled with any material, including sand, and are quick to deploy thanks to their prefabricated modular concertina design. Since they fold flat into a compact space, they are also easier to transport and store,” Cheyne explains.

Another key advantage is that welded mesh gabion wire panels may be rigid in term of tolerance dimensions, but that doesn’t stop them from flowing with the curves. “Rounded shapes and corners are a major trend globally, and we’re adding our own unique interpretation locally through an upgrade in our manufacturing lines,” says Cheyne.

GROWING ENTRY POINTS

Either way, whether it’s for a commercial, industrial or residential project, Cheyne says the rising volume of welded mesh enquiries from built environment professionals, as well as private clients, is remarkable. These include enquiries for garden terraces, boundary walls, freestanding walls, barrier protection, building cladding, as well as commercial signage. The latter is one of Gabion Baskets’ new product lines.

“Climate change impacts are a constant reminder that our fragile ecosystems are under increasing threat and need to be countered with greener initiatives. Gabions are a natural response from an environmentally engineered perspective, as well as from a sustainability standpoint, plus there’s tremendous comfort in being interconnected with natural stone – whether it’s ultimately a welded or woven solution,” adds Cheyne. “Full engineering design and on-site practical installation training is offered to assist in using these product lines,” Cheyne concludes