When it comes to reinforcing concrete, there are two main options. One option is the rebar, or a reinforcing bar, which is a steel rod that comes in different thicknesses. These are usually ribbed for better grip. Rebars typically encompass the edges of the slabs.

Wired mesh is often paired with rebars, but not always. The steel mesh is made up of wires melded together into a flat sheet. The wires form a square, grid-like pattern. Like the rebars, mesh comes in varying sizes and thicknesses. The most common size is 1/8″ thick (4 mm) and 6″ long by 6″ wide (150 mm x 150 mm).

Neither rebar nor mesh rust inside the concrete like one might suspect. The curing of concrete seals it off from oxygen, which is what causes the rusting of steel. That’s why thicker slabs of concrete are better suited to steel reinforcement.

No, they do not. Larger projects or slabs may need steel reinforcement to provide support or extra strength. Wired mesh can also help resist cracking. However, not every piece of concrete necessarily requires that extra boost.

When you’re working on a major project, it’s important to carefully look over plans and building requirements. Some locations require reinforcement no matter the size or scale of the concrete. This is especially true of certain public buildings.

The main slabs that require the steel reinforcing mesh will be those that expect a heavy workload. Anything from a lot of foot traffic, walls, or other foundational pieces will need that extra strength.

Oblong Square Crimped Mesh