Galvanized after wire mesh, also called hardware cloth, is manufactured by taking (usually) low carbon steel wire mesh and galvanizing (zinc coating) it following weaving or welding. This process differs from the galv before wire mesh production process where strands of low carbon steel wire are first galvanized and then woven or welded together into mesh. While galv after wire cloth is slightly more expensive than galv before, it offers better corrosion resistance, especially when welded material is used in outdoor settings. This is because the protective zinc coating is burnt off when galv before material is welded together, leaving its weld joints exposed and unprotected. When woven together, galv before offers similar levels of corrosion protection as galv after.

GAW (Galvanized After Welding) Welded Mesh

In this process, the mesh is hot-dipped galvanized after the wire is welded, coating all the weld intersections. GAW welded wire mesh performs well in damp environments and is used in applications such as ventilation screens, animal enclosures, and light duty industrial applications.

GBW (Galvanized Before Welding) Welded Mesh

In this process, the wire is coated prior to welding, leaving the welds uncoated. While GBW provides some protection against damp conditions, it is more prone to rust than GAW mesh. It is primarily used for indoor applications such as security screens and guards for machinery.

Qijie’s carbon steel and galvanized welded wire mesh products are available in the following standard configurations. Custom products can be designed to meet your requirements.

Opening size, or mesh count, ranging from 1/4” up to 2”. Typically the openings of welded mesh are measured from center to center of the wire.

Wire diameters ranging from .025” to .12” in standard configurations. Larger diameter wires are available for custom applications. Wire diameters are measured prior to welding.

Roll sizes up to 72” wide and custom panel sizes are available. We can manufacture rolls and flat panels in custom sizes to meet your production requirements. Generally, welded mesh is made in rolls when wire diameters are smaller than .080” and in flat panels when wire sizes are over .080”.

Our unique manufacturing process enables us to provide welded mesh that is flat without curl.

1/4''x1/4'' hole: The best option for rodent protection.
1/2''x1/2'' hole: Often used for bird protection and is the most popular hole size for fruit cages.
1/2''x1'' hole: Also used for bird protection and for small animal enclosures.
3/4''3/4'' hole: This is commonly used for rat and squirrel protection.
1''x1'' hole: The medium weight mesh is ideal for fox protection and cat enclosures.
2''x2'' hole: A good option for fox protection, dog enclosures, and general fencing needs.

GBW Welded Mesh Feature:

• Easily workable
• Solid construction
• Extremely versatile
• Easy to install
• Lightweight
• Low resistance to wind loads
• Available in many styles and materials

GBW Welded Mesh Application:

• Agricultural

• Archaeological

• Building & Construction

• Concrete Reinforcement

• Farm & Garden

• Temporary Fencing

• Gabions / Stone Retention

• General Industrial

• Greenhouse

• Landscaping

• Particle Separation

• Railing & Guardrail Infill Panels

• Security & Prison

• Solar Panels

• Window Guards

• Zoo Cages & Animal Enclosures