How to Select the Ideal Hexagonal Wire Mesh Sizes for Your Needs

Hexagonal wire mesh is one of the most popular types of metal fencing, and it's great for poultry rearing and wall reinforcement. Have you ever wondered how to choose the suitable size hexagonal wire mesh for your project?

Introduction

Hexagonal wire mesh, also known as stucco mesh or chicken wire, is a really versatile woven wire mesh fence. The hexagonal wire mesh is characterised by its lovely hexagonal pattern! The hexagonal wire mesh is made from galvanised low carbon steel wire or PVC coated wire, so it's super durable and resistant to rust. The hexagonal wire mesh is commonly used in agriculture for poultry and animal enclosures, but it's also great for construction, fencing, and gardening. You can adjust the mesh size and wire gauge to get the perfect level of strength and security, which is why the hexagonal wire mesh is such a popular choice for all kinds of applications!

When it comes to choosing the right hexagonal wire mesh, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it's essential to select raw materials of the highest quality9Q195/Q235 iron wire） and choose a surface treatment（hot-dipped galvanized,electro galvanized or PVC coated） method that's just right for the job. But, above all, it's so important to choose the right size!

What is the size of the hexagonal wire mesh?

A. Mesh Size

      - Definition

Mesh size is a pretty important specification that determines the size of the gaps between the iron wires. It's measured in openings per linear inch in a hexagonal wire mesh. Hexagonal wire mesh, which we all know and love as chicken wire, has a different definition of mesh size. In this case, it's measured by the distance across the flats of the hexagon. So, if we're talking about a 1-inch mesh size, that means the distance between two parallel sides of the hexagon is 1 inch.

      - Common sizes: The 1/4 inch chicken wire,1/2 inch chicken wire,1 inch chicken wire,2 inch chicken wire are popular.

B. Wire Gauge

      - Definition

Wire gauge refers to the thickness or wire diameter of the wire used in the hexagonal wire mesh. It is a critical specification that determines the strength, durability, and flexibility of the hexagonal wire mesh. And a higher gauge number indicates a thinner wire and a lower gauge number indicates a thicker wire.

      - Common gauges: 12 gauge chicken wire,14 gauge chicken wire,16 gauge chicken wire,18 gauge chicken wire,19 gauge chicken wire,22 gauge chicken wire are widely used for your new projects.

C. Roll size

The roll size of hexagonal wire mesh is a great way to determine the dimensions of the hexagonal wire mesh when it is rolled up for storage, transport, or sale. The roll size of hexagonal wire mesh is defined by two main parameters: width and length.

Width is the horizontal measurement of the hexagonal wire mesh roll, usually specified in feet or metres.The 4ft chicken wire,6ft chicken wire are widely used.

Length is the vertical measurement of the hexagonal wire mesh roll, also specified in feet or metres.The popular hexagonal wire mesh rolls size are 50 feet chicken wire,150 ft chicken wire,etc.   

Here is the size chart of the hexagonal wire mesh:

III. Factors to Consider When Selecting Hexagonal Wire Mesh Sizes

 A. Purpose and Application

      - Agricultural use (chicken coops, garden fencing) 

Poultry Enclosures

Mesh Size: 1 inch (25 mm) or 2 inches (50 mm)

Wire Gauge: 18-20 gauge

Roll Size: 3-4 feet wide, 50-100 feet long

Application: Used to build chicken coops, duck pens, and other poultry enclosures. The mesh size is small enough to keep birds contained while allowing for good ventilation and visibility.

Garden Fencing

Mesh Size: 1 inch (25 mm) to 2 inches (50 mm)

Wire Gauge: 18-20 gauge

Roll Size: 2-3 feet wide, 25-50 feet long

Application: Used to create garden fences to protect plants from larger animals like deer and dogs. The mesh size and wire gauge provide a balance between strength and flexibility, making it easy to install and durable.

Industrial use (stucco mesh）

Hexagonal stucco mesh is the perfect solution for reinforcing plaster and stucco in construction! The great thing about the stucco meshes is that they come in a range of sizes, from 3/8" to 2", with wire gauges varying from 17 to 22 gauge. The 1" x 20 gauge and 1-1/2" x 17 gauge configurations are a fantastic choice for those looking for a perfect balance of strength and flexibility. The galvanised coating on the stucco meshes is a fantastic feature, as it ensures corrosion resistance, which is crucial for exterior wall coatings. Self-furring stucco netting is a great innovation that simplifies installation by maintaining the proper plaster embedment, contributing to a durable and crack-resistant finish. 

   B. Desired Durability and Strength

Impact of wire gauge on strength and longevity

There's a reason why thicker wire gauges are often used in applications where the hexagonal wire mesh needs to serve as a robust barrier or reinforcement! The heavy gauge hexagonal wire mesh are perfect for construction, heavy-duty animal enclosures, or as a protective layer in industrial settings. And thinner wire gauges are great for applications that prioritize flexibility and ease of installation over maximum strength, such as in gardening, light-duty fencing, or decorative uses.

Mesh size and its relation to durability

The size of hexagonal mesh, measured by the diameter of the hexagonal openings, is directly related to its durability – and this is great news! Smaller mesh sizes, typically less than 1 inch, offer greater strength and resistance to tearing or deformation, making the hexagonal wire mesh ideal for applications requiring high durability, such as animal containment or heavy-duty construction reinforcement. Larger mesh sizes, over 1 inch, provide more visibility and airflow, which is fantastic, but may compromise durability, especially when used in high-stress environments. 

For specific projects, the hexagonal wire mesh size should be chosen based on the required reinforcement strength and the flexibility needed of your project, which is a great way to get the perfect result every time. SUNSHINE offers a variety of sizes hexagonal wire mesh and feel free to contact us!