The Many Uses for Hardware Cloth

Hardware cloth, also known as metal mesh cloth or metal cloth, comes in several different opening sizes and can be used in a variety of applications. The most common specifications used for hardware cloth utilization are 1/2″ (2 mesh), 1/4″ (4 mesh), and 1/8″ (8 mesh).

Hardware Cloth Applications

What Is Hardware Cloth Used For?

The many uses for hardware cloth include:

  • Pest control
  • Animal Enclosures
  • Garden projects
  • Gutter Guards
  • Filters and Strainers
  • Shrub and Tree protection
  • Industrial Art

Pest Control

A common application for metal cloth is pest control, especially in gardens. As an example, 1/2″ mesh is generally used to control and exclude gophers, 1/4″ mesh is generally used to control and exclude mice, and 1/8″ mesh is generally used to exclude bees. The smaller the opening of the metal mesh cloth, the smaller the pest that can be stopped. Openings of metal cloth can become so small that they can be used as insect screens.

Animal Enclosures

Hardware cloth is commonly used as an enclosure to prevent animals from wandering while keeping off pests and predators. What makes hardware or metal mesh cloth an ideal choice is its superior strength and ability to allow air and visibility to pass through. Additional uses for hardware cloth as enclosures include chicken coops, pens, and rabbit hutches.

Garden Projects

Additional uses for hardware cloth include home and garden projects. It is a superior alternative to chicken wire for use in chicken coops. You can even use hardware cloth in a variety of fencing or security screen applications where an economical mesh is required.

Gutter Guards

Hardware cloth is an excellent material for gutter protection. Placing the metal mesh cloth over gutters can help you prevent leaves and debris from clogging your drainage and overflowing.

Filters And Strainers

In industries, hardware cloth is valuable in filtration processes such as separating sand from oil during oil and gas drilling, mining, and construction sites. It is also used in oil splatter screens, sink drain strainers, and French presses for coffee found in homes and businesses. 

Shrub And Tree Protection

Wrap a layer of hardware cloth around the base of trees to keep animals like deer and rodents from damaging the bark. You can also use it to form a protective barrier around young plants.

Industrial Art

Artistic ventures are another surprising but excellent use for hardware or metal mesh cloth. Whether you need to create a strong base for your industrial designs or simply want to evoke an industrial aesthetic, the flexibility and durability of hardware cloth make it a popular choice for industrial artists.

Lawrence Sintered Metals can assist in finding you the right metal cloth opening size for your needs. Contact the professionals at Lawrence Sintered Metals today to discuss metal mesh cloth applications and the best opening size for your project.