Mesh fencing is well regarded as one of the more affordable options available for securing commercial and industrial premises. It is a very versatile, medium-term solution that satisfies security, boundary demarcation, and aesthetic purposes.
With the wide variety of options available in today’s market, getting the right type of mesh fencing for your premises can present a challenge.
This guide will help you in making an informed choice by laying out key factors to consider in the selection of the right mesh fencing system for your needs.
1. Purpose & Requirements
The first point is to find out what you need the fence for and what your specific needs are. Do you need this fence purely as a security measure? Is it for privacy? Or maybe you only need it for simple demarcation and decoration purposes?
You may end up with a combination of the above, but understanding your own requirements will help direct your choice in terms of height, thickness, and design of the mesh.
For example, if you’re looking for security, perhaps a wire mesh with small apertures and thick wires would be your choice, because it will act as a better deterrent to intrusion when compared to a wire mesh fence with thinner wires and larger apertures.
A decorative mesh may be in order if the fencing is required to enclose a public space where aesthetics is of greater importance.
2. Material Choice
Mesh fencing comes in a variety of materials, which vary quite markedly with respect of their level of durability, maintenance requirements, and overall cost. Some of the more common materials used in the design and fabrication of mesh fencing systems include; galvanized steel, powder-coated steel, and aluminum.
- Galvanized steel – Known for better reliability and higher performance, the galvanizing process helps the metal resist rust and corrosion better than non-galvanized fencing and is therefore much more suited to outdoor use. Whilst this option is usually more expensive to purchase, this type of fencing may offer a better return on investment over the course of its lifetime.
- Powder-coated steel – This type of mesh fencing is further protected with a powder coating, thereby rendering it more resistant to the effects of the weather whilst also giving it an aesthetic layer. Powder coating gives you the added benefit of being able to choose almost any color, helping you to match your fence to the surrounding environment or your company’s own brand. Companies such as this one based in the UK can offer both galvanized and powder-coated mesh fencing, or a mesh fencing solution featuring both of these options.
- Aluminum – This material is lighter in weight than steel mesh and does not rust. It is therefore much more suitable for a wide range of commercial fencing applications including basic demarcation.
3. Mesh Size & Configuration
A measure of effectiveness in security that the fence can provide would be the size of the apertures of the mesh, something that can be observed with a closer inspection. Small apertures usually offer better security as they make it harder for people to climb the mesh or cut it to gain illegal entry to a facility.
Security should be balanced with visibility when specifying the design of mesh. In areas where high security is required, the design of the mesh would be more tightly and robustly designed.
In those areas where aesthetics and visibility count, more open designs with larger apertures may be the better fit.
4. Height & Installation
Another key consideration that should be thought of is the height of the mesh fencing you require. Taller fences are going to offer the greatest level of security, but they are also going to require a higher level of upfront investment. In residential areas particularly, it is important that you observe any local regulations or guidelines when it comes to fence heights.
Professional installation of mesh fencing is recommended. This will help to ensure a strong fence that shall hold up for its expected lifespan. When installed unprofessionally, this can lead to the instant or premature failure of the fence and therefore, you should always consider hiring an experienced and accredited professional for this task.
5. Cost Considerations
Budget is always going to be a critical consideration when it comes to mesh fencing, and the cost can vary greatly depending on the material, height, and complexity of the design.
While it is always tempting to go for the cheapest product on the market, it is always key to consider the long-term value and durability of such fencing.
The larger investment required for high-quality materials and professional installation will often pay off over the lifetime of the product, as money is saved on maintenance and replacement costs over the expected lifespan of the product.
6. Maintenance Requirements
The level of maintenance required for different materials and designs can vary greatly. Lower maintenance can be expected for galvanized or powder coated mesh fencing, which usually only involves periodic cleaning and occasional inspections for damage.
Aluminum is very low in maintenance as it does not rust. Standard mesh that isn’t galvanized or powder coated will rust and deteriorate quickly.
General maintenance will ensure that your mesh fencing lasts longer and stays functional over the course of its expected lifetime. Look out for possible wear and tear along with any damage and repair it right away. This will help prevent the premature failure of the fence.
7. Environmental Impact
Consider the environment when choosing a mesh fencing product. If, in this case, you choose to go green by either purchasing a material that is already recycled or has a lower impact on the environment compared to the competition, you will be actively supporting your company’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.
Choosing a fencing solution that works with the natural landscape can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property.
8. More Features & Accessories
Consider any extra features or accessories that can be incorporated to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your mesh fencing.
This could include gates, decorative treatments, security additions such as barbed wire or spikes, and systems integration with other security measures, like cameras or alarms.
