Types of Wire Mesh Fencing Materials

One of the most important aspects to consider when deciding which wire fencing material to use is the type of wire 'finish'. There are three basic types.

GBW - galvanised before welding and galvanised before weaving                                                                                                                                                

GAW - galvanised after welding and galvanised after weaving                                                                                                                                                      

SS - stainless steel and other alloys.                                                                                                                                                                             

A professional fence installer in your area can help you make an informed decision. Now, for some explanation.

GBW-Galvanised before welding

Barbed wire can be welded or woven. Galvanised wire is used to manufacture meshes.

Welded Product - the zinc layer is burned off during the welding process. The welded joints where the horizontal and vertical lines intersect are not protected and exposed to rust and corrosion. In wet weather, moisture tends to collect in the joints, thus accelerating the process.

3D Panel

While it is true that zinc can "flow" from the area near the burnt intersection, the welded joint never regains its full protection. These are the types you will see at your local building supply shop and garden centre. The variation in size, mesh size and height is considerable. You can find a product to meet your needs. It is important to remember that these items have a limited lifespan. Welded GBW fencing materials are relatively inexpensive and practical.

Woven Products - These products do not have any welded areas and therefore do not have the same vulnerability. These range from light hexagonal fencing to field fencing and heavy gauge woven high tension deer and wildlife fencing. The heavier fences last longer, especially those with Grade 3 galvanised fencing.

GAW-Galvanised after welding

The fencing material is galvanised after the welding or weaving process. The mesh is drawn through a bath of molten zinc to completely seal the wire, including the welded and woven areas. These products are rigorously protected against rust and corrosion and will last much longer than the same products with a GBW finish. You can tell if a product has been galvanised by looking at the weld and weave areas. You can actually see how the zinc seals these areas. However, when you consider the additional material and labour costs for replacement, the higher initial cost of GAW mesh can easily be justified.

 Eco Gate

GAW fencing is more specialist and therefore not as easy to find in retail outlets. Welded mesh panels are commonly used to make animal cages. They are ideal for use in wet or corrosion-prone areas. As the end use of these items is more specialist, there is a wider choice of wire gauges, mesh sizes and widths. gaw hexagonal mesh is often used for saltwater applications and for building game bird fences - areas where long life is sought and appreciated.

SS - stainless steel and other alloys.

Stainless steel fencing materials are probably the most specialised type. They offer the benefits of resistance to rust, corrosion and other environmental stresses. Stainless steel welded wire mesh is often used as fencing in coastal areas. They are very expensive and difficult, if not impossible, to buy in retail outlets. Their appearance is more pragmatic than attractive. These items have a much longer life span. Other alloys (such as copper) are also available in a variety of sizes, mesh sizes and weaves.