Noise insulation in urban gardens with gabion walls

- 27/01/2025 -

In urban environments, noise pollution can be a major source of disturbance, whether it’s from roaring traffic, noisy neighbors or other city sounds. A quiet garden where you can relax and unwind can be a real haven. Sound insulation, therefore, plays a crucial role in modern garden design. One of the most effective and stylish ways to achieve this is by using gabion walls, such as the ECCOfence Alubox and the ECCOfence KIT. These versatile garden fences combine functionality with a contemporary look. But how exactly do they contribute to sound insulation?

What are gabion walls, and how do they work as sound insulation?

Gabion walls are robust metal cages filled with stones, gravel or other natural materials. Their porous structure breaks and absorbs sound waves, significantly reducing noise pollution. They can also be supplemented with materials such as sandbags or concrete blocks for enhanced soundproofing. Gabion walls are often used as garden fences, noise barriers or decorative elements, and their popularity stems from the combination of durability, aesthetics and functionality.

The secret to the sound-insulating properties of gabion walls lies in their structure:

  • Absorption of sound waves: The stones within the gabion break and absorb sound waves, reducing noise pollution. This is especially effective with low-frequency sounds like traffic.
  • Porous structure: Unlike a concrete wall, which reflects sound, gabion walls absorb it due to their porous composition.
  • Adjustable height: Gabion walls can be customized in height to provide optimal protection against specific noise sources, such as busy roads or noisy neighbors.

Types of ECCOfence gabion walls

At ECCO Products, we offer two types of gabion walls for a sleek and durable finish:

The ECCOfence Alubox is a slim, modern and very narrow gabion with a design-forward look and a width of just 16.5 cm. It is available with two finishes: an aluminum top profile or a steel mesh. The Alubox comes in four heights (40, 90, 140, and 190 cm) and can even be used as a garden bench or table.

The ECCOfence KIT is an all-in-one solution for your gabion project. This versatile and practical set includes all the necessary components to quickly and easily install a solid and durable fence. It is available in four heights (50, 100, 150, and 200 cm) and can even be installed as a floating structure. Subtle transitions between gabions enhance its seamless design.

All ECCOfence gabions are made from weather-resistant metal, ensuring they maintain their strength and appearance for years. These durable and stylish gabions are ideal as fencing, boundary markers, decorative elements or even as a base for lighting. Additionally, their installation is straightforward. Gabions can be assembled and filled on-site, making them a convenient choice.

Advantages of gabion walls as noise barrierse

  1. Effective acoustic insulationThe structure of gabions absorbs sound waves, reducing noise from traffic, industrial activities or noisy neighbors. Their modular construction allows them to be tailored to address specific noise issues.
  2. Sustainable and environmentally friendlyGabion walls are made from natural and recyclable materials, making them a sustainable choice. Additionally, they can be filled with locally sourced materials, further reducing their environmental footprint.
  3. Versatile and stylish designGabion walls suit nearly any garden style, from sleek, modern designs to natural, rustic outdoor spaces. The choice of fill material and finishes provides endless options to create a unique look for your garden.
  4. Low maintenanceGabion walls are incredibly robust and weather-resistant. They require little to no maintenance, making them a perfect long-term investment.

Tips for optimal sound insulation with gabion walls

  • Placement: To achieve the maximum sound-insulating effect, place gabions on the side where most of the noise originates. The closer the gabion is to the noise source and the higher it is, the better the sound will be blocked. A tall fence ensures that sound waves have more difficulty traveling over the barrier.
  • Core filling: Gabion walls are made of porous materials such as stones and gravel that break and absorb sound waves. To further enhance this sound-absorbing effect, you can use stones of varying sizes. Additionally, by adding a core of dense materials like sandbags or concrete blocks, you can achieve maximum sound dampening.
  • Height: Ensure that the gabion walls are high enough to visually block sound waves. Sound travels in a straight line, so if you can see the source, you can also hear it. Adjust the dimensions to your specific situation. For urban gardens, a height of approximately 2 meters is ideal.
  • No gaps: Make sure the gabions are completely filled to prevent sound leaks. Carefully inspect for any holes or gaps, as even small openings can reduce effectiveness. A well-placed gabion wall has high density and does not allow air or sound to pass through. This is essential for effective sound insulation.

Common mistakes in sound insulation

  • Incorrect material choice: Use dense and heavy materials like stones, concrete or gravel.
  • Insufficient height: A short barrier will not provide adequate noise protection.
  • Gaps in the construction: Even small openings can let sound through and reduce the barrier’s effectiveness.

Transform your garden into a peaceful oasis with ECCOfence

With ECCOfence gabions, you can create a natural-looking garden fence that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional. The ECCOfence Alubox and ECCOfence KIT combine durability, style and soundproofing in one solution. This way, you can enjoy more privacy in a peaceful garden, even in a busy urban environment, such as along a busy road. The noise from neighbors can also be dampened, such as sounds from garden parties or noise from public buildings like a school. Additionally, gabions can block noise originating in your own garden, such as the sound of pool pumps or outdoor units for heat pumps or air conditioning systems. You can also enhance their visual appeal by integrating more natural elements, like plants, into the design.

Are you ready to transform your garden with gabions? Explore the possibilities on our product page and be inspired by this versatile solution. Turn your garden into a serene oasis, even in the heart of the city!