Flexibility: Subjected to alternating forces of tension and compression, the inherent flexibility of a Gabion structure enables it to deform rather than break. This prevents loss of structural efficiency. Deforming in response to subsidence of foundation or internal stress is a functional feature, and rather than being a fault is in fact, a benefit.

Strength: Since Gabion are bound together as a monolithic unit, the wire mesh is extremely strong under tension. The wire mesh shell is not simply a container for the stone filling, but a reinforcement of the entire structure. Additional strength is achieved by the use of vertical diaphragms. These diaphragms are affixed to the base of the gabions to restrict internal movement of the stone filling and provide further reinforcement. Gabion efficiency, rather than decreasing with age, actually increases. During early periods of use, silt and vegetation will collect within the rock filling to form a naturally permanent structure, enhancing the environment.

Permeability: Interstitial spaces in the stone fill within the baskets provide a great degree of permeability throughout the structure eliminating the need for a drainage system and preventing buildup of hydrostatic pressure which will displace and crack concrete structures. In river works, pressure and counterpressure on the banks due to variations in water depth between flood and low water are therefore also eliminated.

Economy: Wire mesh gabions are less expensive than most construction materials. Graded stone fill is usually locally available. Waste materials such as crushed concrete may be specified in place of stone.

Construction costs are reduced; unskilled laborers can easily learn to erect Modular Gabion Systems, fill them and close them properly. Many gabion structures may be built without any mechanical equipment. Pilings, underwater drainage systems and excavations are unnecessary. There's no need to drain the site or to construct a cofferdam for underwater installation. The first layer of gabions can be laid in water or in mud.

Gabion structures have suffered a reputation for being unsightly and unnatural in river, pond and beach settings. The front-facing walls appear bland and mechanical in design, rather than form natural-looking rock barriers. Large gabion walls constructed on tourist beaches serve as a distraction, where very thick and long walls must be used to protect large beach areas.

Disadvantages -- Maintenance

If the rocks shift or become worn down inside the metal baskets as a result of heavy water and wave activity, the entire wall must be disassembled to reached the damaged area. For very tall gabion stacks, any damage to the lower areas requires the removal of the upper wall elevations, which can be costly and time-consuming.

Disadvantages -- Wall Assembly and Cost

Although gabion walls offer a good economic choice for most applications, they remain more expensive to install than natural vegetated slopes or riprap. Gabion walls require heavy equipment to construct, since mechanical lifting is required to set heavy walls sections in place.

Disadvantages -- Endurance

In instances of high velocity streams and wave interaction, gabion wall wire mesh baskets can abrade and tear open, spilling the rock fill.

Disadvantages -- Inspection

Gabion walls must be inspected on a regular basis to insure their integrity. They must also be immediately inspected and evaluated after any storm, which has caused heavier than normal water flow.