Galvanized is not a metal or alloy; it is a process in which a protective zinc coating is applied to steel to prevent rusting. In the wire mesh industry, however, it is often treated as a separate category because of its wide spread use in all types of applications. Some of the more popular uses and applications of galvanized wire mesh are listed below:
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Galvanizing can occur either before or after wire mesh is manufactured – both in woven form or welded form. Galvanized before woven wire mesh or galvanized before welded wire mesh indicates the individual wires, themselves, used to manufacture the mesh have been galvanized before the mesh is woven or welded. Depending on the mesh (or opening size) and diameter wire, this is usually the less expensive option, especially if custom manufacturing is required.
Galvanized after woven and galvanized after welded wire mesh is exactly as it sounds. The material is manufactured, normally in carbon or plain steel, and is often placed in a galvanizing tank, thereby producing a galvanized after woven or welded specification. Generally speaking, this option is more expensive, depending on availability and other variables, but does offer a higher level of corrosion resistance. This added level of corrosion resistance is most noticeable at the joint or intersection of galvanized after welded wire mesh specification.
One of the main benefits of a galvanized wire mesh, and particularly of a galvanized welded specification, is that it tends to offer a wide variety of opening sizes and diameter wires. For instance, mesh opening sizes, such as 4” x 4”, 2” x 2”, 1” x 1” and ½” x ½”, tend to be readily available from stock in a handful of popularly requested diameter wires.
Due to its attractive price point and its corrosion resistance, galvanized wire mesh is very popular among industrial users of wire mesh. Usually, galvanized wire mesh is specified in applications where relatively large opening sizes are needed. Keep in mind that galvanizing a relatively fine mesh, after it is woven, is likely to clog the openings rendering it unusable in numerous applications. It is for this reason that, usually, a 10 x 10 mesh and finer will be manufactured as a galvanized before woven item.
Darby also stocks and distributes a wide array of vinyl coated welded wire mesh specification. Please contact us for more information.
Durable, affordable, and endlessly versatile, woven wire mesh is a go-to for many DIY projects. The galvanized steel variety, in particular, is notably strong and resistant to various outdoor conditions.
But what can you use it for around the home, and how long does galvanized metal last? Find answers to frequently asked questions about this type of wire mesh below.
1) Does Wire Mesh Rust if it's Made of Galvanized Steel?
The galvanization process creates a protective zinc-steel coating on the surface of steel mesh screens. This gives the material enhanced strength and resistance to rust and corrosion, but it's not completely invincible. Though stainless steel is more resistant to rust and corrosion than regular steel, wire mesh can still rust, even if it's galvanized.
How Is Galvanized Wire Mesh Made? Read our blog for details.
2) How Long Does it Take Galvanized Wire to Rust?
Exactly how long it takes galvanized steel to rust or corrode depends on a few factors, such as the climate and how the material is used. Galvanized wire typically holds up for a long time before it begins to rust—often decades. The material could last much longer if used indoors or in a relatively dry outdoor environment with moderate temperatures.
3) What Causes Galvanized Steel to Rust or Corrode?
Rust can accumulate more rapidly if the material is continuously exposed to moisture, salt water, and certain chemicals.
For instance, galvanized steel may rust or corrode quickly in:
Applications in which the material is continuously wet, such as a car wash or water park
Humid climates with lots of moisture in the air
Marine environments with exposure to saltwater and moist, salty air
Outdoor locations with frequent, heavy rainfall
4) How Long Does Galvanized Wire Mesh Last?
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The zinc-steel alloy on galvanized wire mesh strengthens the material while keeping rust and corrosion at bay—but the protective coating will eventually wear off. It could last as little as a year in a wet or coastal environment and two or three decades in a desert location. In perfect conditions, it might hold up for a century.
As noted, stainless steel has exceptional resistance to rust and corrosion, especially T-316 (type 316), a premium stainless alloy. T-316 welded stainless steel wire mesh is a great choice if you're looking for an incredibly durable, long-lasting material suitable for a range of outdoor environments.
5) How Do You Prevent Galvanized Steel From Rusting?
Galvanized steel mesh will initially have a shiny silver or chrome color, but with time, it will dull. Eventually, it may appear powdery-white, which indicates corrosion, or reddish-orange, the telltale sign of rust.
Depending on how and where you're using the material, this may not be avoidable. However, you can help prevent rust and corrosion by not using abrasive or acidic cleaners (like bleach or disinfecting agents), washing it with pH-neutral water, and storing it in a dry, ventilated area.
6) Can the Material Be Used in DIY Projects?
Galvanized wire mesh and hardware cloth can be used for a wide array of DIY home projects.
This includes:
Chimney caps, spark arresters, and fireplace screens
Concrete driveways and sidewalks
Fencing and privacy screens
Foundation vents, soffit screens, and gutter guards
Gardening and landscaping projects
Pest control and rodent exclusion
For more inspiration, check out these Outdoor Living Space Design Ideas Using Wire Mesh.
Shop Galvanized Wire Mesh: Woven & Welded
TWP Inc. has what you need to get started with your next DIY project. For over 50 years, our woman-owned company has been a leading supplier and fabricator of metal mesh screens.
Our robust selection of products includes pre-sized, laser-cut materials with various weaves, wire diameters, and finishes—all in stock and ready to ship. If you don't see exactly what you need, we're happy to accommodate custom orders.
Request a free quote today or get in touch to speak with our experts. We’re here to help!
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