Can Wire Mesh Be Used Outside

Wire mesh is a highly versatile material used for a wide range of DIY applications. Still, people often wonder, Can it be used outdoors?

The short answer is yes, absolutely. Get details about the product's inherent strength and environmental resistance. 

Is All Wire Mesh Waterproof?

Not all mesh materials are waterproof. When it comes to withstanding the elements, stainless steel wire mesh is the superior choice. If you are looking for an incredibly durable solution, consider galvanized or stainless steel welded wire.

What About Decorative Mesh?

Decorative wire mesh materials, often used for interior applications, can include metals such as brass, bronze, and copper. While these metals can be used outside, you want to make sure you’re using the right material for the job.

For example:

• Brass mesh can be used in custom outdoor lighting fixtures.
• Bronze mesh is a great choice for insect screens.
• Copper mesh is perfect for snail control.

If you’re interested in finding the right product for your needs, we invite you to visit our DIY and home improvement web page. You can browse by materials and by project.

The Best Outdoor Wire Mesh Products

As noted, galvanized and welded wire mesh offer the best weather resistance. Chicken wire (a.k.a. hex mesh) is also a popular choice for certain outdoor projects. 

Galvanized Wire Mesh

Good For: Pest control, fencing, railings, animal enclosures, screens, ventilation, concrete reinforcement

Galvanized mesh features a thin coating of zinc. This makes it exceptionally resistant to corrosion and oxidation in various climates. Not only that, but the material is incredibly strong and long-lasting, often holding up for 20 or more years.

This type of wire mesh is a go-to for pest control, DIY fences, railings, and livestock enclosures. Galvanized mesh can also work for gutter guards, soffit screens, foundation vents, and reinforcing concrete driveways.

Check out the top 10 Outdoor Uses for Galvanized Wire Mesh.

Welded Wire Mesh

Good For: Pest control, railings, ventilation, gabions

Welded stainless steel mesh wires are joined through a process called resistance welding. The material is notably resistant to rust, abrasion, and corrosion. 

This sturdy mesh is often used to rodent-proof homes and gardens. It's also a top choice for DIY front yard fences set within wooden frames, porch railings, and dock enclosures. Additionally, welded metal sheets and panels can be used to ventilate attics and crawl spaces.

Hex Mesh

Good For: Garden enclosures, fencing, chicken coops

Hex mesh (also known as chicken wire or poultry netting) is another popular material for outdoor use. Woven from thin wires, the flexible material is easy to form into various garden enclosures, simple fences, and in chicken coops and runs.

How Can Mesh Be Used Outside?

Wire mesh products are often used by homeowners, contractors, and DIYers for pest control, fencing, gardening, and landscaping.

Pest Control

Wire mesh materials ideal for deterring mice, squirrels, snakes, birds, moles, gophers, and other unwanted critters from your garden and yard. They're not only effective but also environmentally friendly and non-toxic for humans and animals.

To learn more, see our Guide to Wire Mesh for Pest Control.

Gardening

Many gardeners use metal mesh as a chemical-free, humane solution to keeping nibblers out of their crops. Beyond pest control, the materials are great for tomato cages, trellises, root control, and composting.

Get details in our blog 6 Ways Wire Mesh Helps Gardens Grow.

Fencing

Mesh screens and panels make excellent fences, from yard enclosures and railings to privacy partitions and livestock corrals. The material is also excellent for rock walls (or gabions) which can be used to design  creative fencing.

Learn more in our article How to Make a Gabion With Galvanized Mesh.

Landscaping

Both heavy-duty mesh materials and malleable hex mesh are frequently used for landscaping purposes. This includes outdoor sculptures, archways, and fire pits—to name just a few.

Here are 5 Creative Ways to Use Chicken Wire in Your Landscaping.

Shop Our Huge Inventory of Outdoor Wire Mesh

When it comes to outdoor wire mesh applications, the possibilities are endless. TWP Inc. has been a reliable supplier of industrial-grade products since 1969. 

We carry a robust selection of in-stock materials that are ready to ship. We can also accommodate custom orders if your project calls for specific dimensions.

To see your DIY creations featured in our gallery, upload photos to Instagram using the hashtag #TWPWireMesh.