Is Wire Mesh Necessary in a Concrete Driveway?

Concrete roadways, platforms, and structures typically require some type of reinforcement to help reduce cracking and prevent architectural failure. Most often, rebar (steel bars) are embedded into the concrete before it hardens. However, galvanized panels of welded wire mesh can be used as an alternative to rebar.

If you're planning to repave your driveway, you should definitely consider using steel reinforcement. Since weighty industrial vehicles probably won't be driving on your property very often (or ever), rebar might be overkill for a residential project. In that case, is wire mesh necessary in a concrete driveway? Experts recommend using heavy-duty wire mesh on private roadways. Here's why.

Why Use Wire Mesh In Concrete?

As long as a driveway or parking lot isn't regularly driven on by semi trucks and other heavy vehicles, welded wire mesh will work well. If you're like a lot of homeowners, you might be wondering if you can go without steel reinforcement altogether. While there are some exceptions, reinforcing a driveway is generally worth the investment.

Heavy-gauge welded wire mesh panels are:

• Easy to lay in the desired position
• Exceptionally durable with a high tensile strength
• More affordable than rebar
• Positioned much faster than rebar
• Preassembled

Unlike some rebar grids, you can count on the consistent size and spacing of galvanized wire mesh. Additionally, as the concrete is being poured, stainless steel mesh panels stay in position.

When it comes to concrete, you can't avoid cracks entirely, but wire mesh reinforcement will help hold the material together when they do occur. Also, it will help evenly distribute the weight of cars on your driveway. The added strength of steel is especially crucial if your subgrade isn't up to par.

How Do You Attach Wire Mesh to Concrete?

Whether you're hiring a contractor or are planning to tackle the project yourself, it's helpful to have a general idea of the process. Find the basic steps of reinforcing a concrete driveway below.

1. First, you'll need to install your forms, which will essentially frame the driveway and keep the concrete in place before it sets.

2. Next, you'll use gravel or another fill material to even out the grade.

3. After compacting the fill into the subgrade, it's time to add steel reinforcement.

4. Position the wire mesh about two inches from the forms, using heavy-duty wire cutters to cut the edges as needed. If possible, get wire mesh paneling pre-cut to size so you can lay it directly on top of the fill with minimal adjustments.

5. Once the wire mesh is in place, you can pour the concrete, flatten it, level it, and then cure it.

High-Quality Wire Mesh for DIY Projects

For over 50 years, TWP Inc. has been a trusted supplier of industrial-grade steel wire mesh. Our women-owned business is proud to serve construction companies, infrastructure firms, homeowners, and DIYers alike. As an ISO-certified company, our customers can rest assured they're getting top-tier materials, services, and support.

We carry galvanized and welded stainless steel wire mesh suitable for concrete reinforcement. Not only that, but with our in-house measuring, laser cutting, and roll slitting services, you can get the exact size you need for your driveway.

Order your stainless steel wire mesh today, or request a quote for a custom size or quantity. Want to have your new driveway featured in TWP Inc.'s online gallery? Upload your photos to Instagram using the hashtag #TWPWireMesh.