Wire mesh fence installation is a practical and versatile solution for homeowners seeking to improve their property’s security and aesthetics. Whether you’re enclosing a garden, a yard, or a grazing area, wire mesh fencing offers an ideal blend of durability and functionality.
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Offers versatility in design and function.
Challenges:
Wire mesh fences can serve multiple purposes, from keeping pets safe to acting as trellises for climbing plants. They are highly customizable, with various styles and materials to match your specific needs. Proper installation is crucial; improper setup can lead to issues with stability and durability. However, with the proper techniques and careful planning, installing a wire mesh fence can become a straightforward DIY project that even a novice can undertake.
Before you start digging or driving in posts, planning your wire mesh fence installation is crucial. A well-thought-out plan will save you time, effort, and potential headaches down the road.
First, decide where you want your fence to go. Use a tape measure to draw a straight line between the two end points of your future fence. This line will serve as your guide.
The spacing between your posts is critical for the stability of your fence.
That uneven terrain might require adjustments. Always measure twice to be sure!
Having the right tools at hand will make your installation smoother and more efficient. Here’s a list of essentials:
With these tools and a clear plan, you’re well on your way to a successful wire mesh fence installation. The next step is setting up your posts, which we’ll cover in the following section.
Once you’ve planned your wire mesh fence installation, it’s time to get your hands dirty. Let’s walk through the process of setting up your fence, from post installation to mesh attachment and tensioning.
1. Install End Posts
Start by installing the end posts. These are crucial as they anchor your entire fence.
Ensure all posts face the same direction and are aligned using a string line for consistency.
2. Install Middle Posts
Next, install the middle posts following the same method as the end posts. Ensure they are equally spaced and vertically straight using a spirit level. Concrete can also be used here for added stability.
1. Attach Mesh to End Post
Begin at one end post. Secure the wire mesh using cable ties or staples. Make sure these are tightly fastened to prevent sagging.
2. Continue Along the Fence
Unroll the mesh along the length of your fence. As you reach each post, secure the mesh using the same method as with the end post.
Proper tensioning is key for a durable and sturdy fence.
1. Use Tension Bars
Insert tension bars through the mesh at the end and corner posts. These bars help distribute tension evenly across the fence.
2. Apply Tension
Use tensioners to tighten the wire mesh. Start from one end and work your way to the other, ensuring a uniform tension throughout.
With these steps, your wire mesh fence should be securely in place, providing both functionality and durability. Next, we’ll guide you through selecting the best materials for your project.
Selecting the right materials for your wire mesh fence installation is crucial for ensuring durability and effectiveness. Here’s a breakdown of the key materials you’ll need:
Welded wire is a popular choice for its strength and versatility. It’s made by welding wire intersections, creating a rigid structure. This type of wire is ideal for areas needing a sturdy barrier, like gardens or animal enclosures. It comes in various gauges and mesh sizes, so choose based on the specific needs of your project. For example, smaller mesh sizes work well for keeping out small animals, while larger ones are suitable for bigger creatures.
For those looking to add an aesthetic touch, PVC-coated wire is an excellent option. This type of wire is coated with a layer of PVC, offering additional protection against rust and weathering. The coating also gives the fence a more polished look, often available in green or black, which blends nicely into natural surroundings. This makes it a great choice for residential landscapes or areas where appearance matters.
T posts are a practical choice for many fence installations. They are easy to install, as they can be driven directly into the ground without needing a hole. This makes them a quick and efficient option for straight fence lines. T posts are usually made of steel, providing a durable and long-lasting support. Pair these with mesh up to 14 gauge for the best results.
Wooden posts offer a traditional and robust alternative. They are often used for end or corner posts where additional strength is needed. To ensure longevity, it’s advisable to set these posts in concrete. Wooden posts can also be more aesthetically pleasing and are often used in combination with T posts for a balanced approach. They are particularly suitable for areas where the fence needs to withstand significant pressure or for decorative purposes.
By carefully selecting the right materials, you’ll ensure that your wire mesh fence not only meets functional requirements but also stands the test of time. Up next, we’ll share some tips to help you achieve a successful installation.
Achieving a successful wire mesh fence installation involves more than just picking the right materials. Here are some practical tips to ensure your fence is strong, straight, and sturdy.
Leveling your posts is crucial for a professional-looking fence. Use a spirit level to ensure each post is perfectly vertical. This step prevents future sagging and keeps the fence visually appealing. It might take a little extra time, but it’s worth it. A crooked post today can mean a leaning fence tomorrow.
For added stability, consider digging a trench along the fence line. This can help anchor the mesh and discourage animals from burrowing underneath. Aim for a trench depth of about 4-6 inches, depending on your specific needs. This small step can greatly improve the security of your fence.
Setting posts in concrete is optional but highly recommended for wooden posts and end posts. This adds significant stability, especially in areas with loose soil or high winds. To do this, dig a hole approximately one-third the height of the post. Mix your concrete and pour it around the post base, ensuring it remains level during setting. Allow the concrete to cure completely before attaching the wire mesh.
By paying attention to these details, you’ll build a fence that not only looks great but also stands the test of time. These tips can make the difference between a fence that needs constant maintenance and one that simply works.
Next, we’ll dive into some frequently asked questions to clear up any lingering doubts about your fencing project.
Attaching wire mesh to a fence can be done in several effective ways, depending on the materials you are working with and your specific needs.
Screws: For wooden posts, screws offer a secure and permanent solution. Use galvanized or stainless steel screws to prevent rust, and attach the mesh tightly to the post.
Wire: This is a flexible option that works well with both T posts and wooden posts. Simply wrap the wire around the post and through the mesh, twisting it to hold the mesh tightly in place.
Metal Flashing: This is a durable option for areas that require extra strength. Metal flashing can be used to cover the mesh’s edge and secure it flat against the post, providing a neat finish.
Each method has its benefits, so choose the one that best suits your fence type and durability needs.
Proper post spacing is crucial for a strong and stable fence. Here are a few guidelines to help you plan:
General Spacing: Typically, posts should be spaced 2 to 3 meters apart. This distance ensures the fence remains sturdy while using minimal materials.
Terrain Considerations: On uneven or sloped terrain, you might need to adjust the spacing. Closer spacing can provide additional support where the ground is less stable. Consider the specific challenges of your landscape to determine the best post placement.
By taking these factors into account, you can ensure your fence is both functional and durable.
The cost of mesh fencing can vary based on several factors:
Location: Prices for materials and installation can differ depending on your geographical area.
Wire Type: The type and gauge of the wire you choose will influence the cost. Thicker gauges and special coatings, like PVC, tend to be more expensive but offer increased durability.
Other Cost Factors: Consider the length of the fence, any additional features like gates, and the complexity of the terrain. These elements can add to the overall cost.
While costs can vary, wire mesh fencing is often a cost-effective option for many projects. Its affordability, combined with its durability and versatility, makes it a popular choice.
Stay tuned as we wrap up with a look at how D Miller Exteriors can provide expert craftsmanship and personalized service for your fencing needs.
At D Miller Exteriors, we take pride in offering expert craftsmanship and personalized service for all your fencing needs. Our team understands that a well-installed wire mesh fence not only secures your property but also improves its aesthetic appeal.
Our approach is simple: we listen to your needs and tailor our services to meet them. Whether you need a fence for security, privacy, or decoration, our skilled professionals are here to deliver the results you expect. We combine years of experience with high-quality materials to ensure that your fence stands the test of time.
By choosing us, you’re not just getting a fence; you’re getting a commitment to quality and satisfaction. Our personalized service means we work closely with you from start to finish, ensuring every detail meets your expectations.
Stainless Steel Architectural wire mesh is a series of high-tensile, grade 316 stainless-steel wires interlocked together and is commonly produced from 70% recycled material. The individual wires are woven on large weaving looms at Haver & Boecker, our German-based parent company, using a similar technique used to make clothes.
While it appears rigid and unyielding, stainless steel architectural mesh proves to be fairly flexible when a certain length is reached. Because of this characteristic, architectural mesh panels can be applied to countless applications.
The term weave type refers to the way in which the warp and weft wires cross each other. It encompasses four different mesh categories: Woven wire, Cable, Fine, and Specialty.
Wire mesh is best defined as an assortment of rigid wires that have been woven together to form a sheet of mesh that is interlaced.
Cable mesh is a mesh type that is woven on a specialized weaving loom, much like woven wire. The key difference between the two is that cable mesh uses cables rather than stainless steel wires in the warp (vertical) direction.
Mesh profiles that are constructed out of wires that have a very small wire diameter. Fine mesh is particularly sensitive when introduced to mechanical stresses. That said, the application of the mesh is a key factor when classifying fine mesh.
Specialty mesh is a mesh that features a unique pattern and carries the characteristic of employing several different wire types.
A weaving loom that is specifically designed to properly weave stainless steel wires is employed to weave architectural mesh. These looms consist of a warp beam, heddle frames (predetermined amount), a reed, a rapier band, and a front take-up mechanism.
The warp wires are the wires that run lengthwise and are fed directly from the warp beam.
The weft (or shute) wires are the wires that run across the width of the cloth during the weaving process.
The warp beam is a cylindrical drum that is wound with a specific number and length of warp wires depending on the mesh profile and size of the mesh panel. These specifications are calculated prior to winding the wires.
Heddle frames are holders used to separate the warp wires. Each loom contains at least two heddle frames. In a loom that uses two heddle frames, heddle frame 1 initially lifts half of the warp wires while heddle frame 2 pulls the other half down. The heddle frames switch positions after the weft wire is driven between the two sets of warp wires.
A rapier band is the mechanism that drives the weft wire between the two sets of warp wires after each heddle frame cycle.
A reed is the instrument that holds the warp wires in the desired spacing while also driving the weft wire into position.
Lastly, the finished roll of woven wire cloth is wound onto a front take-up mechanism and is removed in increments needed by the framing system of the project.
Once the beam is wound, and the heddle frames and reed are threaded, the whole assembly is transported to a weaving loom. The setup of the loom is then completed by a dedicated technician.
Once assembled, the weaving process is virtually automatic and seamless.
As the loom starts up, the warp beam begins to unwind in very small increments. The front take-up mechanism simultaneously winds the woven cloth at the same small increment in the same direction.
This movement allows the loom to maintain specific tensioning, which is critical when producing high-quality mesh panels.
As the two beams rotate, heddle frame 1 pulls half of the warp wires up while heddle frame 2 drives the other half down. It's at this point that the rapier, whether a two-part or one-part rapier, drives a weft wire between the two sets of warp wires.
Each weft wire is delivered from a separate spool of wire located at the side of the loom. As the rapier returns to its resting position to gather another weft wire, the reed pushes the latest weft wire into its final position.
This process is what creates the precise cross-sections needed to create the perfect aesthetic.
Once the weft wire is in place, the reed returns to its original position. The warp beam and front take-up mechanism then rotate at the same small increment, the heddle frames change position and the loom begins a new cycle.
These simultaneous movements are repeated over and over until the entire mesh cloth is woven.
The overall cost of architectural mesh is determined by several factors. This includes quantity, dimensions, and fabrication.
A good rule of thumb to follow is the smaller the quantity of mesh needed for a project, the higher the cost per square foot. At the same time, the higher the quantity of mesh needed for a project, the lower the cost.
To put it simply, mass production is where you see significant cost savings.
Sometimes pricing is quoted based on the initial drawings provided to the mesh supplier. If these drawings change during the buying process, the price per square foot is likely to change as well.
It should be noted that warehousing fees are applied if the mesh of a project is ready for delivery before the structure is finished or ready. These are separate fees and not included in the cost of the mesh itself.
Wire mesh cost is heavily influenced by the weight of the material. As the weight of the material increases, so does the cost.
That said, Mesh profiles that feature a higher percentage of open area will tend to be on the cheaper side of the spectrum.
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Cable mesh is more expensive than wire mesh as it utilizes cables in the vertical direction. Despite the cables beginning relatively inexpensive, they must be spot-welded into place to prevent fraying.
Fine mesh profiles, while lighter than other mesh types, prove to be far more difficult to weave. Setting up a weaving loom for fine mesh panels is very time-consuming.
In turn, labor costs greatly increase.
Weaving special mesh profiles requires a tremendous amount of fabrication and labor. Taking this and the varying designs into consideration makes estimating the cost difficult.
As architectural mesh is a decorative material and provides no structural qualities, designers often look to reduce the cost of the mesh as much as possible to reallocate funds towards structural support.
This is where valued engineering comes into play.
Valued engineering is the process in which architectural designers eliminate certain elements of a structure to make the project more budget-friendly. Designers must take the fact the architectural mesh does provide weather protection, fall protection, and security into consideration.
With that, architectural mesh is a very customizable material. In fact, it can be fabricated to accommodate any project or budget.
Elements such as the wire diameter and mesh openings can be altered while still maintaining the aesthetic vision of the designer.
The most beneficial quality architectural mesh provides facades is the variety of mesh types. With so many mesh profiles to choose from, there is a solution that can provide everything you need to make your vision a reality.
Architectural mesh is also a great way to create natural ventilation. This is particularly useful when applying a façade to a parking structure that requires a certain amount of ventilation to follow city ordinances.
This is adjustable by customizing the openings of the mesh.
Sun protection is also achievable when architectural mesh gets used to construct exterior facades. By filtering the amount of sunlight that hits the structure, the temperature within the structure is more controlled.
As a result, expenses associated with air conditioning get reduced.
The versatility of architectural mesh allows it to serve as a retrofit. This means that if a structure already exists, mesh can get placed on top of it.
The life-cycle of architectural mesh is another key element to consider when selecting the material for an exterior façade. Architectural mesh is a durable material that lasts the lifetime of the structure with little to no maintenance required.
As it is weather-resistant, architectural mesh is suitable in most environments where the architect wants to create a heightened aesthetic.
Implementing an architectural mesh façade requires a significant amount of tension to prevent it from moving. That said, architectural mesh facades are limited to structures that are strong enough to handle the force created by the tensioning system.
The cost of architectural mesh is another element that can drive architects towards other design material, such as perforated plates.
When it comes to the cost of mesh material used for a project, there are several factors at play. Of these factors, fabrication tends to have the biggest impact.
This is particularly true for custom applications. In other words, the more customization needed the higher the cost.
Architectural mesh, when applied to exterior canopies, provides a large amount of climate control. While architectural mesh provides a unique aesthetic to canopies, it also provides enough shade to reduce temperatures during summer while retaining heat during the winter.
While it provides excellent shading, architectural mesh canopies are a transparent product. This allows visitors to view the surrounding area from the inside out, providing a unique experience.
Architectural mesh canopies are perfect for sunny areas that don't see much rain.
The biggest drawback associated with architectural mesh canopies is that it doesn't block precipitation. As it is an open product, rain and snow can make its way through the openings in the mesh.
Architectural mesh infill panels can get customized to fit most railing systems. That said, if a railing system is already in place architectural mesh panels can cut to fit the grid.
DOKA-MON0 , for example, can be manipulated by hand to fit a railing system that's angled for a stairwell. This reduces the amount of excess material that is wasted.
Also, because it’s stainless steel, architectural mesh is durable. This is particularly beneficial when subjected to high volumes of traffic.
With that, exterior infill panels are ideal for entranceways and transportation structures.
The biggest drawback of an infill panel mesh system is that it can be expensive. As stainless steel mesh should not touch other alloy types, you will need to buy stainless steel framing.
Additionally, there are a lot of contractors that are not familiar with architectural mesh. If the contractor installing the mesh mishandles the mesh, it will get damaged and not portray the desired atmosphere.
Although architectural mesh is a stainless steel product, it is flexible. This allows it to get formed while maintaining the integrity of its structure.
This characteristic is particularly useful when forming sculptures around an existing structure. With that, architectural mesh can also be free-formed to protect sculptures from damage.
Free form architectural mesh is ideal for any area that needs an enhanced atmosphere and protection.
While stainless steel mesh is flexible, it is not as flexible as other materials, such as fabrics. That said, applications that call for material to take on a form with a tight radius can be difficult to achieve when working with architectural mesh.
In other words, you can only work within the flexibility of the mesh profile you choose.
Employing architectural mesh for ceiling applications will enhance the brightness of the room. Mesh allows light to shine through the mesh and disperse through the mesh panels.
This creates the ability to establish a unique sense of canister lighting. In turn, the number of light fixtures and electricity needed to light the area is reduced.
Custom cutouts that allow various building elements to drop through can also get added.
Architectural mesh is great for ceiling applications in areas, such as larger conference rooms or common areas.
However, it's applicable anywhere you are attempting to create a sense of flow.
Unfortunately, architectural mesh does not provide decorative sound absorption qualities. This is because it is an open product and the mesh openings allow sound to continue traveling throughout the area.
Instead, they enhance acoustics in the room, which we'll dive into later in this article.
Applying architectural mesh to the walls of a structure will enhance the appearance of the room. Instead of offering light diffraction, it adds a sense of texture to the walls.
Architectural mesh allows you to use the wall as a feature wall rather than having traditional paneling, siding, or drywall. That said, architectural mesh is ideal in large rooms and inside of elevator cabs where a sense of flow is desired.
As architectural mesh is a stainless steel product, visitor traffic is vital. If visitors are coming in contact with the mesh daily, the mesh will likely dent.
In other words, it is not the most sturdy solution when compared to other materials.
Also, because people are going to come into contact with it at some point, you run the risk of the mesh becoming dirtier quicker. This means you will have to use resources to clean it often.
When working with infill panels, the mesh can get cut to fit most infill panel systems. If a railing the ceiling grid is already in place, architectural mesh can cut to fit the grid.
If fine-mesh gets used, the mesh can wrap around an infill panel. This is ideal when an infill panel system splits into various directions.
Generally, infill panels get used for railing systems. Think stairways and walkways leading to the front door of a building.
When looking at railing systems you are going to want to use wire mesh rather than fine-mesh profiles. This is because fine mesh is too delicate for railing systems and will most likely tear when subjected to heavy amounts of traffic.
The biggest drawback of an infill panel mesh system is that it can become very expensive. That said, the price which you should expect to pay naturally depends on the application.
Handling can also be a major concern. If the contractor installing the mesh neglects to handle the mesh with care, it can get damaged and lose its luster.
Architectural mesh works wonders when trying to deflect and diffuse sound. Acoustic sound panels are applicable to both the ceilings and walls to redirect sound.
Mesh acoustic sound panels are ideal for any sort of performing arts center. But you can apply architectural mesh anywhere within a structure that needs acoustic enhancement.
The biggest drawback of using mesh to constrict acoustic sound panels is that it takes a lot of calculations to have full control of where the sound bounces to in the room. While some mesh may claim to have 0% open area, there is some airflow that makes its way through the mesh.
This along with factors, such as the gauge of wire and mesh opening sizes, makes calculating the level of acoustic value difficult.
As architectural mesh, especially fine mesh profiles, is very pliable, you can bend, twist, and form it around various objects. As mesh provides unique reflections value, visitors will receive a different feel every time they pass the architectural mesh system.
This is because the lights that are within the building and the room will be hitting and reflecting off the mesh at different angles.
With this in mind, architectural mesh is perfect for areas where you wish to incorporate sculptures or create a unique art piece.
The biggest concern integrating architectural mesh into a free form application is the fact that it cannot be returned to its natural form factor. This means that the contractor must be precise in placing the mesh in the exact location when working with the mesh.
Failure to properly place the mesh or handle it with care will result in creasing and crinkling that is irreversible and will take away from the feel of the mesh system.
There are a handful of components needed for wire mesh facades to maintain their architectural design qualities. Among these components are the substructure, clevis hardware, flat tension profile, pressure spring, and intermediate tube.
The substructure is the foundation of an architectural mesh system and is attached directly to the structure. Typically, the substructural frames are constructed out of galvanized steel and take on a profile that resembles the letter “L”.
The clevis hardware is the brackets placed at the top and bottom flat tension profiles. These brackets are designed to connect the mesh panels to the substructure frames.
The flat tension profiles are clamps placed at the top and bottom of each mesh panel. These clamps serve as a connecting medium that joins the mesh and clevis hardware.
The pressure springs serve as a failsafe for all tensioning applications and are attached at the bottom substructural framing. The springs are designed to provide the mesh panels just enough give to prevent damage while also maintaining its rigid aesthetic.
Lastly, the intermediate tubes are additional support beams laid horizontally behind the paneling of the mesh system. Each intermediate tube is methodically placed to prevent panel drifting when heavy winds are present.
Wire mesh systems are generally installed by a third-party contractor that has experience working with architectural mesh. A successful installation uses the following steps :
For more details surrounding the installation process, feel free to download our Installation and Maintenance Handbook.
When it comes to the cost of the installation of a wire mesh system, there are a handful of factors to consider. Labor costs will possibly drive the overall cost the most.
What are the labor laws? Are the workers union or non-union? These and several more labor-based questions should be asked.
The quantity of panels being installed will also greatly affect the cost. Naturally, the more mesh being integrated into a project the less the mesh will cost per square foot.
On average, you can spend $10 to $15 per square foot being installed.
The buying process is initiated when the customer reaches out to our team and requests a quote. Once processed, you will receive the quote at which you will either accept or deny it.
If accepted, you will need to submit a purchase order for entry into the supplier's computer system. It’s at this time that the customer and supplier agree upon payment terms.
Once terms of payment are settled, the supplier usually requests finished drawings and renderings so shop drawings can be developed. The shop drawings will show the project reverse engineered with wire mesh panels.
You will either sign off on the shop drawings or submit redline revisions. Redline revisions are best desired as major changes customers make to the developed shop drawings.
Typically, we allow customers to request two red line revisions. If more than two are requested, additional fees may be applied.
NOTE: A licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) must sometimes be present when approving shop drawings. The mesh supplier can recommend a reliable P.E. if needed.
After all, drawings are approved and finalized, mesh production and associated lead time begin. Fabrication typically accounts for 8 to 10 weeks with delivery (ocean or air-freight) accounting for 4 to 6 weeks.
Your architectural mesh/system will arrive in carrying containers designed to protect the integrity of the mesh. Inside the container, you will find everything needed to complete the project in its entirety.
Installation can then begin and, in a few weeks, your architectural mesh system will be complete.
Our primary goal is to make the buying process easy and seamless. With that, there are three methods you can use to request a quote and begin your architectural mesh journey:
To ensure a timely quoting process, you will need to have information about several elements of the project when reaching out. This includes:
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Wire Mesh Roll.