Galvanized coating vs. vinyl coating
Galvanized steel mesh used for fences come in two types: Galvanized before Weld or Weave (GBW) and Galvanized after Weld or Weave (GAW). The most common is the GBW and it is widely available for those who looking for fencing options. The GAW products are more expensive and relatively difficult to find even on big hardware stores. While both types of galvanized steel mesh have the same galvanized finish, GAW meshes are far more superior. The galvanizing process for GAW mesh makes the mesh rust resistant and high durable. Steel wire is welded into a mesh than dipped into a molten galvanizing bath. Galvanizing will also help protect and seal the welded joints so that it lasts significantly longer than GBW.
Vinyl coated meshes are also available as welded or woven mesh but they differ from galvanized steel mesh because they have double protection from rust and corrosion. A previously galvanized steel mesh is coated with vinyl to give the mesh a longer life. Products with the highest quality and longest life with better rust protection are GAW meshes that have been vinyl-coated. The most common applications of vinyl-coated meshes are lobster pots and crawfish traps. However, vinyl-coated GAW meshes are more expensive because of the additional handling and processing during manufacturing.
Welded galvanized steel mesh for fencing applications
GAW products are available for different fencing applications that are intended to last for a long period of time. GAW fences are also available in a variety of gauges and mesh sizes for long lasting cages for small animals or durable fences around a home. Environmental factors will not shorten the life of the GAW fence because it is covered with much more zinc including the welded areas. Zinc coatings provide the effective and economical way of protecting steel against corrosion. It also serves as a barrier to prevent moisture from coming into contact with a GAW fence. Zincs ability to extend the life of steel makes it a durable product that extends its market share in different commercial and industrial applications.
Galvanized steel mesh gauge options
A 16-gauge GAW is a suitable product for animal caging, as ground wire for small animal enclosures and aviaries and for light fencing applications; however the 14-gauge GAW is more durable. The 11-gauge option has significantly more strength and durability that is ideal for rock retention and gabion basket usage. Gabion baskets are typically made from wire mesh that can filled with earth and rocks including other materials for retaining and supporting. When the risks of high water are present, gabion baskets will hold banks and soil layers through its mass of great weight. It tends to retain its integrity in spite of the ravages of fast moving water.