Questions? Answered.
Mesh basics, ordering, shipping, and what to do if something arrives damaged.
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers on lead times, minimums, materials, custom fabrication, and how a quote actually comes together. Tap any question to expand it.
// 01 What does “mesh” mean, and how is it measured?
“Mesh” refers to the number of openings per linear inch, measured from the center of one wire to a point one inch away. It determines how fine or coarse the cloth is — which drives its filtering and screening capability.
// 02 What is “clear opening” (or “space”)?
“Clear opening” — also called “space” — is the distance between adjacent parallel wires: the actual gap material passes through. It determines the size of particles that can pass and directly affects filtering and screening performance.
// 03 Is there a minimum order?
Yes — our minimum order is $75.00, not including taxes or shipping.
// 04 Do you stock standard sheets or rolls?
Yes. We typically stock 48" × 120" sheets and 48" × 100 ft rolls. We carry many other sizes too, but those are our standard stock.
// 05 Do you sell to homeowners?
Absolutely — we love helping with projects big and small, and we keep a wide range of samples so you can choose what's right for yours.
// 06 Do you install the wire mesh?
No — we don't install. The mesh is applied by the customer.
// 07 Do you arrange shipping?
Yes, we set up shipping and add it to your invoice — unless you'd prefer to use your own carrier. You're also always welcome to pick your order up at our Hayward warehouse.
// 08 Do you ship internationally?
We currently ship to Canada. Other international destinations aren't available yet, but we're working toward it.
// 09 Will I get tracking information?
Yes — you'll receive a tracking or PRO number for whichever carrier handles your order.
// 10 What if my order arrives damaged?
Note the damage with the driver, photograph the damaged areas, and contact us immediately with the photos. We'll promptly arrange replacement of the damaged materials. Please reach out as soon as possible — otherwise the cost may fall to the customer.
// 11 How do I measure woven wire mesh?
Three numbers describe almost any woven cloth: the mesh count (openings per inch — lay a ruler down and count the openings in one inch), the wire diameter (the thickness of the wire, measured with calipers), and the opening (the clear gap between wires). Not sure? Snap a photo next to a ruler or send us a small sample and we'll identify it for you.
// 12 What's the difference between mesh count and opening size?
They're two ways of describing the same cloth. Mesh count is how many openings fit in one inch (a higher count means finer cloth). Opening size is the actual width of each gap. For a given wire diameter, a higher mesh count means smaller openings — so mesh count is handy for fine screening, while opening size matters when a specific particle has to pass through.
// 13 What is wire diameter, and why does it matter?
Wire diameter is the thickness of the wire used to make the cloth. It drives two things: strength (thicker wire is more durable) and open area (thicker wire leaves smaller openings for the same mesh count). Two cloths can share a mesh count but perform very differently depending on wire diameter.
// 14 What's the difference between welded and woven wire mesh?
Woven mesh is made by interlacing wires over and under, like fabric — flexible, tight tolerances, ideal for filtration, sieving, and screening. Welded mesh has straight wires welded at each intersection — rigid, strong, and dimensionally stable, ideal for guarding, fencing, partitions, cages, and structural panels. Need precision filtering? Think woven. Need rigidity and strength? Think welded.
// 15 What's the difference between raised and flattened expanded metal?
Both start as a solid sheet that's slit and stretched into a diamond pattern. Raised (standard) expanded metal keeps the strands at a slight angle — stronger, more rigid, with a natural non-slip surface (walkways, security screens, machine guards). Flattened expanded metal is rolled smooth and flat — a lower profile and more finished look (architectural panels, shelving, infill).
// 16 How do I measure perforated metal?
A perforated sheet is described by four things: the hole size, the hole shape (round, square, or slotted), the center-to-center spacing, and the sheet gauge (thickness). Hole size plus spacing also gives you the open area — the percentage of the sheet that's open.
// 17 What does “on centers” mean for perforated metal?
“On centers” is the distance from the center of one hole to the center of the next. For example, 1/4" holes on 3/8" centers means quarter-inch holes spaced three-eighths of an inch apart, center to center. Together with hole size, it defines the pattern and the open area.
// 18 Can you cut material to size?
Yes. Beyond full sheets and rolls, we cut to size and offer slitting, stamping, and fabrication right from our Hayward facility. Send us the dimensions — a drawing or sample helps — and we'll quote it. Custom cuts are checked for tolerances before they ship.
// 19 Do you sell full rolls, sheets, and small pieces?
Yes — full rolls, standard sheets, and cut-to-size pieces. If you only need a small piece, we can cut from stock (subject to our $75 minimum order). You don't have to buy a full roll to get exactly what you need.
// 20 Do you ship nationwide?
Yes — we ship nationwide across the U.S. (and to Canada). We'll arrange freight and add it to your invoice, you're welcome to use your own carrier, or you can pick up at our Hayward warehouse. Either way, you'll get tracking.
// 21 Can you help me figure out what material I need if I only know the application?
Definitely — that's what we're here for. Tell us the application (what you're building or trying to solve) and we'll recommend the right construction, material, mesh, and finish. Wire mesh can be confusing; describe the job and we'll work it out with you. You can also ask Meshy, our product assistant, anytime.