Mesh fencing is a popular choice when it comes to securing various types of premises. Whether you’re looking to protect a commercial site, industrial premises, or even a public area, mesh fencing can offer the perfect blend of durability and aesthetics whilst being a cost-effective option in comparison to certain other fencing types.
We’ve put together this guide to help you explore the different types of mesh fencing, their common uses, and some practical installation tips which we hope will help you in making an informed decision when choosing the right type of mesh for your own specific needs.
The Different Types of Mesh Fencing
Below are the most common types of mesh fencing and why you might choose them over the others.
1. Chain-Link Fencing
Source: hilltrident.co.uk
One type of fence that we’ve all probably encountered in our lifetime is chain-link fencing. This is made from interwoven steel wires that combine to form a diamond pattern, resulting in a fence that provides both strength and flexibility.
Chain-link is a highly versatile fencing option for low to medium security applications. It’s also fairly cost-effective which has enabled it to become of the most common mesh fencing products installed globally.
2. Welded Mesh Fencing
Stronger and more secure than chain-link fencing, welded mesh fencing is suitable for both medium and high-security applications. You can often find it helping to protect industrial sites, schools, parks and other public spaces. It’s also a regular feature around sports facilities where ball games are played.
This type of fence is made by welding individual steel wires together to form a rigid grid, making it sturdier than a traditional chain-link fence. It’s often available with different gauges of wire and can be galvanized or powder coated for additional protection against corrosion.
It’s important to note that different designs can feature different aperture sizes. Generally speaking, smaller apertures will provide better protection against climbing and cutting.
3. Woven Wire Mesh Fencing
Similar to chain-link, woven wire mesh fencing consists of interwoven wires that combine to form a tight grid. Often referred to as ‘chicken wire’, this type of fencing is often used for agricultural purposes, such as for helping to contain livestock and for the protection of crops.
This type of mesh fencing can be made from various materials, including galvanized steel and stainless steel, both of which are able to better withstand harsh environmental conditions.
Common Uses of Mesh Fencing
1. Commercial Premises & Industrial Installations
Various types of commercial premises and industrial installations choose to use mesh fencing to protect valuable assets, equipment, and sensitive areas. Here, welded mesh fencing is one of the more common options due to its strength and resistance to climbing and tampering.
These types of premises also often feature additional integrated security systems such as CCTV and motion sensors for enhanced protection. These can be monitored remotely with data fed back to security personnel as and when necessary.
2. Public Spaces & Parks
Mesh fencing is perfectly suited to public spaces and parks. Due to its unobtrusive appearance, this type of fencing helps to maintain aesthetics whilst providing medium to high levels of security. It is also often used for basic boundary demarcation purposes, and for helping to control the flow of pedestrians.
All types of mesh fencing can be used for public spaces and parks, and you will often see a mixture of fencing types installed in these locations. They are often finished to help blend in better with their surroundings, by making use of powder coating where budget allows.
3. Agricultural Applications
Farmers and ranchers will often make use of woven wire mesh fencing to contain livestock and protect crops from wildlife. This type of fencing is durable, easy to install, and relatively inexpensive when compared to the more premium mesh fencing options available.
A key benefit of woven wire mesh is that it can withstand the challenges of outdoor environments. It also helps to ensure the safety of animals whilst offering basic protection against unauthorized access to agricultural areas.
Installation Tips for Mesh Fencing
1. Planning & Preparation
Before taking on the installation of any type of mesh fence, it’s essential that you plan and prepare the site. This will help you achieve the best possible installation which will help offer the longest lifespan for your chosen product.
You should start by marking the boundary where the fence will be installed and ensure that the area is clear of any obstacles. You may need to clear certain areas of shrubs and bushes prior to installation, and you may need to level uneven ground, depending on the type of fence you choose. You should also check for any local regulations and obtain the necessary permits if required.
2. Choosing the Right Materials
Select the appropriate type of mesh fencing based on your specific needs. Consider factors such as security requirements, environmental conditions, and budget. Do you need low security, medium security, or high security? For medium to high security, consider a welded mesh fence. For lower security requirements, consider chain-link or woven fencing.
Ensure that the fencing materials you choose are of high quality and suitable for the intended application. The manufacturer will often be happy to provide advice on which type of mesh fencing is suitable for your needs. For example, Lochrin Bain is a UK manufacturer of different types of mesh fencing products and will often help their customers in choosing the right type of fence.
3. Setting the Posts & Attaching the Mesh
For a sturdy and long-lasting fence, properly setting the posts is crucial. If you’re required to provide your own posts, you should always use durable materials such as galvanized steel or treated wood. These will help to offer the best protection against the elements, keeping your posts sturdy and secure for years to come.
Some types of mesh will come with the posts included, so be sure to use those if provided. You should dig post holes to the appropriate depth, ensuring they are evenly spaced to accommodate the type of fence chosen.
Once the posts are set, attach the mesh to the posts using appropriate fasteners such as clips or ties. Again, many types of mesh fences will come with these clips included, so be sure to use the recommended materials as directed. If using an expandable mesh, ensure the mesh is stretched tightly to prevent sagging.
This will also help to provide a neat appearance that you can be proud of. For welded mesh fencing, use the supplied clamps or brackets to secure the panels to the posts.
Source: shop.betafence.co.za
Conclusion
In conclusion, mesh fencing is one of the most versatile and effective boundary security solutions, able to accommodate many different applications.
Proper installation and ongoing maintenance routines are key to ensuring your chosen type of mesh provides reliable protection over the course of its lifetime.
Whether for residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural use, mesh fencing offers a practical and durable solution for securing your property.
