What is hexagonal wire netting?
Hexagonal netting is made by twisting adjacent wires together to form a pattern of hexagonal openings. The double-twist construction means the mesh will not unravel if a single wire is cut, and it gives a flexible, lightweight material that is easy to handle and fix. The heavy version of the same weave is used for gabion baskets.
Standard aperture sizes and gauges
Hexagonal netting is specified by aperture (measured across the flats of the hexagon) and wire gauge. Finer apertures suit small birds and plant protection; larger apertures suit larger animals and general use.
| Aperture (mm) | Typical wire dia. (mm) | Typical SWG | Common use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | 0.7 - 0.9 | 22 - 20 | Small birds, plant guards, plaster |
| 25 | 0.8 - 1.0 | 21 - 19 | Poultry runs, light fencing |
| 50 | 1.0 - 1.6 | 19 - 16 | General fencing, light gabion |
| 75 | 1.6 - 2.0 | 16 - 14 | Light stock, heavier netting |
Materials and coatings
- Galvanised mild steel: the standard economical finish, galvanised before or after weaving.
- PVC-coated: a polymer layer over galvanised wire for longer outdoor life and a green or black finish - see galvanised vs PVC.
- Stainless steel: for corrosive or coastal settings where long life matters - see galvanised vs stainless.
Where hexagonal netting is used
- Poultry and small-animal enclosures - runs, coops, hutches and aviaries.
- Plaster and render reinforcement - keying coat for ceilings and walls.
- Garden and horticulture - plant protection, tree guards and climbing supports.
- Light fencing, netting and the netting for light gabions and rock fall.
Hexagonal netting vs welded mesh
Hexagonal netting is flexible, lighter and cheaper but less rigid than welded mesh; it sags between supports and is easier to deform. Choose netting where flexibility and low cost matter and welded panels where rigidity, security and a flat surface are needed.
How to choose and buy hexagonal netting
Pick an aperture small enough to contain or exclude your target animal, then a wire gauge heavy enough to resist deformation over the support spacing. Specify the coating for the exposure and confirm roll height, length and quantity. Convert gauges with the spec converter and read the spec reading guide before ordering.
For predator-proofing poultry, a 13 mm aperture in a galvanised or PVC-coated heavier gauge keeps out small predators better than standard 25 mm or 50 mm netting.