Everything that you need to know about #7: Hardware Cloth

We commonly get asked to explain the difference between the mesh options that we offer. We also are asked to define the terms, such as woven mesh, wire cloth, wire mesh etc. More commonly in recent times we are asked about hardware cloth. The aim of this article is to answer any questions that you may have.

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Hardware cloth is a type of mesh material made from metal wire that is used for a variety of applications, including construction, fencing, and home repair. It typically consists of a series of interwoven metal wires that form a grid pattern. The wire used in hardware cloth is often made from galvanised steel, which provides a measure of rust resistance and durability. Hardware cloth is used for a wide range of purposes, including building screens, reinforcement for concrete, and as a barrier for animal protection. It can also be used for filtering, protection and support in industrial settings.

Which hardware cloth you should choose will depend on the specific application or project you are using it for. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the woven mesh for you:

&#; Mesh size: The mesh size refers to the size of the openings in the wire mesh. Smaller mesh sizes are better for keeping small animals out, while larger mesh sizes are better for larger animals or debris.

&#; Gauge: The gauge refers to the thickness of the wire. A lower gauge number means a thicker wire, which will be stronger and more durable.

&#; Material: Woven wire mesh is available in several materials including galvanised steel, stainless steel and aluminium. Galvanised steel is the most common and affordable, while stainless steel is more corrosion resistant and aluminium is lightweight.

&#; Rust resistance: If the wire cloth will be exposed to the elements, you may want to choose a material that is rust-resistant.

Yes, hardware cloth can be used to keep rats out. Hardware cloth with small enough mesh can prevent rats from entering an area because they are unable to squeeze through the openings. The wire mesh should have openings that are 1/4 inch or smaller to effectively keep rats out. When using hardware cloth to exclude rats, it is important to make sure that all potential entry points are sealed and covered with the mesh, including gaps around pipes and wires. The mesh should be securely attached to the surrounding surface to prevent rats from gnawing their way through it. Additionally, it is a good idea to check the mesh regularly for signs of damage or wear and to repair or replace it as needed.

We offer stainless steel hardware cloth with 1mm and 2mm holes for this very purpose. Our rodent mesh is well known to be long lasting and great value for money. 

When choosing hardware cloth for a chicken coop, it is important to consider the size of the mesh and the gauge of the wire. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the right hardware cloth:

1. Mesh size: The mesh size should be small enough to keep chickens in and predators out. A mesh size of 1/2 inch or smaller is typically recommended.

2. Gauge of wire: The gauge of the wire should be sturdy enough to withstand the weight of chickens and potential predators. A wire gauge of 19 or heavier is recommended.

3. Rust resistance: Chickens can be hard on their coops, so it is important to choose hardware cloth that is rust resistant. Galvanised hardware cloth is a good option, as it is resistant to rust and corrosion.

4. Durability: The hardware cloth should be made from sturdy, high-quality materials to ensure that it lasts a long time.

It&#;s also a good idea to choose hardware cloth that is easy to cut and manipulate, so that you can easily customise it to fit your coop&#;s specific needs. With these considerations in mind, you should be able to choose hardware cloth that is perfect for your chicken coop.

The lifespan of wire mesh will depend on several factors, including the material it is made from, the gauge of the wire, and the environment it is exposed to.

Galvanised steel hardware cloth is one of the most common types of mesh, and it is coated with a layer of zinc to help prevent rust and corrosion. If it is used in a protected area, it can last for several years or even a decade or more. However, if it is used in an area with high humidity or exposure to saltwater, it may not last as long as it would in a dryer environment.

Stainless steel is more corrosion resistant than galvanised steel and can last much longer, up to 30 years or more, especially if it is used in an area where it is exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Aluminium mesh is another option, it is lightweight and resistant to rust and corrosion, and can last for a long time, up to 20-25 years in a marine environment.

Ultimately, the lifespan of your mesh will depend on the specific conditions it is exposed to, so it&#;s always good to check in with the manufacturer before purchase if you require any advice.

Cleaning hardware cloth can be done in several ways, depending on the type of debris or buildup on the mesh. Here are a few methods:

For light debris and dust, use a soft-bristled brush or a dry cloth to sweep or wipe the mesh clean.

For dirt and grime, use a solution of mild detergent and water to scrub the mesh with a stiff-bristled brush or a cloth. Rinse the mesh thoroughly with a garden hose or a pressure washer to remove any remaining soap residue.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website GALVANIZED HARDWARE CLOTH.

For rust or corrosion, use a wire brush or a stainless steel wool to scrub the affected areas. After cleaning, rinse the mesh thoroughly and apply a rust inhibitor or a coat of paint to protect the mesh from further rusting.

For heavy grease or oil buildup, use a degreaser or a solution of hot water and a heavy-duty cleaner to scrub the mesh. Rinse the mesh thoroughly with a garden hose or a pressure washer to remove any remaining cleaner residue.

It&#;s important to note that when cleaning hardware cloth, be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses to protect your hands and eyes from sharp edges. And also always check the manufacturer&#;s instructions regarding the care and cleaning of the specific material the hardware cloth is made of.

Since it was first created, the use of woven wire mesh has become a virtually endless list. From filtration to architectural mesh, the possibility of wire mesh knows no bounds.

Now, when working on a project, one of your main priorities is identifying multi-functional materials that will get you the most bang for your buck. Fortunately, wire mesh delivers a perfect balance of form and function and is often applied as hardware cloth.

W.S. Tyler has been a prominent woven wire mesh for over 140 years and strives to spark the creative mindset needed to make the most of wire mesh in new and innovative ways.

To give you an inside look into the possibilities of hardware cloth, this article will encompass:

• What hardware cloth is
• How woven wire hardware cloth is applied
• How welded wire hardware cloth is applied
• The dimensions hardware cloth can be fabricated to
• The cost of hardware cloth

What Is Hardware Cloth?

Hardware cloth is best defined as a metallic mesh in which individual wires are either woven or spot-welded together, forming square or rectangular apertures. As hardware cloth is intended for a wide variety of DIY applications, it is typically constructed from wires with larger diameters than what is seen in more delicate wire mesh applications such as filter cloth.

To that end, hardware cloth can be made from aluminum, galvanized steel, corrosion-resistant stainless steel, or copper. Regardless of the material, hardware cloth is available in either cut-to-size pieces or rolls.

Woven Wire Hardware Cloth

Woven wire hardware cloth is widely used for industrial and retail environments. The stable construction of the mesh makes it difficult to alter, making it ideal for protective applications such as burglary protection.

To that end, the mesh openings are known for allowing a higher level of lighting than other materials. As a result, woven wire hardware cloth is an ideal solution to keep insects and various forms of debris out of lighting wells.

Having said that, if your woven wire hardware cloth will be utilized in an outdoor application, corrosion-resistant stainless steel is recommended. This will help ensure the mesh can withstand the elements that varying weather patterns will subject it to while giving it the ability to glimmer as natural light reflects off it.

Welded Wire Hardware Cloth

Welded wire hardware cloth is widely used for industrial, craft, and do-it-yourself applications. It is typically constructed from smooth, corrosion-resistant stainless steel wires that are welded to form precise openings that are permanent.

To that end, the aperture size of welded wire hardware cloth can range from 6 mm to 20mm.

Its robust yet easy-to-handle form makes welded wire hardware cloth applicable to various applications. This includes animal enclosures, rodent guards, roofing ventilation, garden sieves, and much more.

Hardware Cloth Dimension Availability

As stated above, hardware cloth can be purchased in either rolls or cut-to-size pieces. That said, the dimension availability will vary based on the type of mesh and your specifications.

Now, when working with woven wire hardware cloth, rolls are typically available with a standard dimension of 3' x 85'; however, custom roll dimensions can be woven upon request. On the other hand, cut-to-size pieces are cut based on drawings that you submit.

When working with welded wire hardware cloth, rolls are typically available with the same standard dimension of 3' x 85'; however, half rolls are also available. Cut-to-size pieces are also handled the same and are fabricated based on your drawings.

How Much Does Hardware Cloth Cost?

Your needs ultimately dictate the cost of hardware cloth. Factor such as mesh count, alloy, wire diameter, mesh type, and any additional fabrication needed will play a role in the price.

Additionally, the order quantity can play a role in the cost. A good rule of thumb to follow is as the quantity of the mesh rolls or cut-to-size pieces increases; the price is more likely to be lowered.

Find the Right Mesh Supplier To Get the Results You Want

Hardware cloth is a metallic mesh that is either woven or welded to form precise square or rectangular openings. Whether you are looking to invest in woven wire hardware cloth or welded wire hardware cloth, hardware cloth can be purchased in standard rolls or cut-to-size pieces.

Now, as with any other material used for your project or process, your level of success depends on finding a manufacturer that you can rely on. With wire mesh, this means identifying an organization that actively strives to learn what you wish to accomplish with the mesh and guiding you through the process of finding the specifications needed to achieve these goals.

Here at W.S. Tyler, our main objective is to learn your process inside and out to form a partnership in which we essentially become your woven wire department and an extension of your team.

To help you begin your wire mesh journey, we put together the following article to give you an understanding of some of the mesh specifications you will encounter so you can better communicate the needs of your mesh:

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