Tips to Use Steel Mesh Reinforced Concrete

 Many construction projects are now calling for welded wire mesh to be used in making concrete slabs, instead of rebar. Wire mesh allows for thinner slab pours, and protects against future cracking by providing a framework for the concrete to hold to. Nova plastic formwork is the best choice so far. Reinforce wire mesh for concrete slabs so that it stays at the correct height during the pour, and so the mesh sheets remain together.

Tips to use steel mesh reinforced concrete:

1. Amount of mesh and cutting

The good thing about using steel mesh is that it does not require any special skills as rebar does. Steel mesh usually comes in rolls or sheets. While sheets are pre measured and cut, rolls need to be trimmed such that it fits the area it is intended to reinforce the concrete. When strengthening concrete sidewalks, for example, you measure the size of the excavated hole which is the size to cut the steel mesh to. Keeping height in mind, the same method applies when using the mesh for the walls. For columns and supports, you will have to use each side as a measurement, add them together and convert to square footage. To get the amount of steel mesh needed for the job you will divide that number into the half.

2. Pouring

For steel mesh to be useful as reinforcement, it requires that it is in the center of concrete. This will also help prevent the steel from rusting. Therefore, when working on a sidewalk, you need to pour half of the pavement before you can place the steel mesh. When working on walls or columns then you will need to drain all of the concrete first ensuring that you leave a little room in the form.

3. Reinforce the concrete with steel mesh

It is important that you use heavy work gloves before placing the steel mesh. It is very pliable and forgiving but also heavy and may cut you if you are not careful when handling it. For sidewalk reinforcement, you will need to lay the piece of mesh on top of the concrete you have already poured, and then pour the remaining concrete slowly. For a wall you will have to line the mesh up with the top of the form and while the cement is still wet lower the mesh down until it's fully covered with concrete. The same case applies for columns only that you form the mesh into a cylinder and lash together with metal ties.