Chainwire fencing is one of the oldest forms of protective metal fencing. It can serve a number of both domestic and commercial purposes, but only if designed and installed properly. Every detail involved in the design and creation of chainwire fencing needs to be related to its purpose. This is true for the material of the fencing, the measurements of the perimeter, the height and weight of the posts, and the mesh size.
Considering mesh size in a chainwire fence is important to ensure you get the most out of your installation.
Purpose of a chainwire fence
The mesh size and other fencing details change depending on the primary purpose of chainwire fencing. These functions can include:
- Security for property, data, or dangerous materials
- Perimeter lining for school facilities, sporting grounds, and residential areas
- Privacy fence
- Wildlife barrier or animal enclosure
Regardless of its specific function, chainwire fencing must be able to balance visibility and protection. It should also be cost-effective, tough, and durable enough to last many years.
Mesh sizes in chainwire fencing
Chainwire fencing is made from galvanised metal woven into a mesh. Mesh size of chainwire is defined as the maximum distance between the wires which form the parallel sides of a diamond. It is based on the maximum clear distance that you can measure.
The use of a mesh instead of a whole panel of metal for fences is cost-effective, but it also serves other functions. The mesh allows for some level of visibility, so that people inside the perimeter still have line of sight to spot any incoming persons or intruders.
The mesh size is also related to the temporary or permanent protective function of the chainwire fencing. The mesh should be spaced with just the right amount of distance. The mesh wires should be strongly linked together.
Several factors affect chainwire fencing.
- Amount of steel
In practice, the mesh size determines the amount of steel that needs to be used in order to create the open-weave mesh. The smaller the mesh diamond, the more steel is needed to fill the space between fencing posts.
- Wire gauge size
The gauge size of the wire is related to the size of the mesh opening. For example, a 2” mesh size will often be made of a 9 or 11 gauge wire. A larger diamond such as a 2-1/4” or 2-3/8” diamond will also require a larger gauge, e.g. 11.5, 12 or 12.5 gauge wire.
- Fencing purpose
Ideally, the function of the fence ultimately determines the mesh size. For example, fencing made to enclose small domesticated animals should have small mesh size in order to successfully keep the animals in. Larger perimeter fences that require clear line of sight can have larger mesh sizes.
In general, residential chain link fences have larger mesh sizes, while commercial fencing designs have 2” and small mesh sizes. High security properties have even smaller mesh sizes, up to 3/8” in measurement.
- Level of security and visibility
As mentioned, chainwire fencing should balance the protective functions and a certain level of visibility. High security properties, such as those defending data or other expensive materials, usually have smaller mesh sizes and stronger material. However, smaller mesh sizes also mean less open visibility.
Get full, professional service from the Chainwire Fencing Specialists
From design, engineering, fabrication and installation, the Chainwire Fencing Specialists provide the full service for all your fencing needs. Based in Newcastle and Hunter Valley, we have been providing custom solutions for industrial estates, commercial property, campuses and sporting grounds, security sites, and wildlife barriers.
For expert design and installation, with high quality steel mesh and materials, contact us today at 0425 201 252 or send us an email!