Steel mesh is a popular choice for concrete. While it is strong, it is also flexible, which makes it very easy to work with.
Generally, non-reinforced concrete is resistant to compression but is weak against tension (apply a force to) and shear (the strain produced by pressure in the structure). Therefore, using steel reinforcement gives concrete the ability to resist shear and tension, which in turn increases the concrete’s tensile strength (the resistance of a material to breaking under tension).
Whilst not all concrete requires reinforcement it should always be used when it comes to concrete that is going to carrying a heavy load – examples include slabs, columns, footings, walls and driveways. This will increase the concrete’s tensile strength by enabling it to hold together, which will limit cracks.
Reinforcing mesh is available in 3 types –Square, Rectangle and Trench. Each has a different use. This means there should be a type for almost any application.
Square Mesh: This mesh is most used to strengthen floor slabs and walls. The size of square mesh sheets is 5.8m, or 6m, x 2.4m, dependent on supplier used.
Rectangle Mesh: This mesh is commonly used when reinforcing thin concrete giving strength when needed in a certain direction. This size of rectangle mesh sheets is 6.0m x 2.4m.
Trench Mesh: Is available in 4 wire sizes; 8mm, 11mm, 12mm & 16mm. Trench Mesh is commonly used for residential footing trenches, concrete beams and brick wall footing trenches.
Ute Mesh / Handy Mesh: This mesh is commonly used in driveways, pathways and for ‘DIY’ small projects. It has the same wire spacing as the square mesh but, dependent on supplier, comes in sheet sizes 4m x 2m or 3m x 2m and is only available in SL62 & SL72.