Types Of Chicken Mesh For Plaster

What Is Chicken Mesh?

Chicken mesh is a net like material formed by twisting two adjacent wires at least four times, forming a strong and durable honeycomb like mesh structure. A chicken mesh possesses some special properties due to which it is used extensively in plaster works.

Chicken mesh enhances the strength and durability of the plater coat applied. It is also used to prevent the formation of cracks on the wall.

Cracks are formed due to several reasons like effect of seasonal changes, shrinkage cracks, poor construction practices, etc. Chicken mesh is provided to stop the development of cracks in plaster due to such reasons.

Purpose Of Providing Chicken Mesh In Plastering

Chicken mesh is provided where two different materials meet. For example, bricks and concrete or blocks and concrete. Different materials possess different densities and due to that, the behavior of concrete and blocks or bricks is different from each other during thermal change, leading to the formation of cracks at the junction.

So to minimize or eliminate the formation of cracks at the junction, chicken mesh is provided. After the chicken mesh is applied, a plaster coat is applied to the structure.

Different Types Of Chicken Mesh For Plaster

Different types of chicken mesh used for plastering are as follows:-

1. Wired mesh
2. Fibreglass mesh, and
3. Plastic mesh

1. Wire Mesh

Wire type mesh is further divided into three types of mesh. They are as follows:

• Light expanded metal mesh
• Welded wire mesh
• Linked chain mesh

i) Light Expanded Metal Mesh

Light expanded metal mesh is a mesh made out of sheet metal, cut and stretched to form a diamond-shaped pattern on the sheet of metal. It is extensively used to support plaster or stucco. It is also used as a reinforcement material for interior decoration.

The light expanded metal mesh is made by stretching a metal sheet. So, it does not have any welds and bends on it. This mesh has properties like durability, strength, and lightweight, respectively. Also, the ribbed structure provides maximum adhesion to the surface.

ii) Welded Wire Mesh

It is made up of thin low – carbon drawn wire or galvanized wire of diameter ranging between 0.4 mm to 1.5 mm. The wires are located in perpendicular directions and are interconnected by spot welding. Welded wire mesh is suitable for plastering on uneven and rough surfaces.

Welded wire mesh is used for interior as well as exterior plaster works. It makes the plaster smooth and strong. It also helps to avoid the formation of cracks in plaster.

iii) Linked Chain Mesh

 Linked chain mesh is also known as mini or micro chain wire fences. It is commonly used in plaster for the prevention of crack formation on the wall due to temperature changes. The linked chain mesh is made up of materials like low carbon steel and galvanized wire. It is a lightweight material. The thickness of wires used for making linked chain mesh is 0.5 mm to 2 mm.

The linked chain mesh is used for applications like architectural interior wall plaster and outdoor wall insulation plaster. Before applying the plaster coat, the linked chain mesh is nailed to the surface where the plaster is to be done. After that, the plaster is applied immediately. Linked chain mesh is also used where the structure is prone to high vibration impacts due to various types of machines.

2. Fibreglass Mesh

Fiberglass mesh is a type of chicken mesh that has got some special characteristics like it does not burn and it also possesses high strength. It is a cheap and lightweight material. Due to the special properties of fiberglass mesh, it has a wide variety of applications such as is used in the formation of plaster facades, used on internal walls and ceiling surfaces as well.

Fiberglass mesh is resistant to alkalis, hence it does not decompose and will not rust over time. It is highly resistant to stretching and tearing and also protects the surface from the crack formation. The application of fiberglass mesh is relatively easy.

3. Plastic Mesh

 Plastic mesh is an alternative to traditional metal mesh. It is suitable for both, interior as well as exterior surfaces. Like every other type of chicken mesh, the plastic mesh also provides resistance against crack formation. Except this, it also increases the mechanical strength of the structure or the wall and prevents deformation as well.

Plastic mesh does not limit its use to plastering, instead, it has a wider scope. It is used for plasterwork and paintwork by pouring floors, in making sound and heat insulated walls, to protect the facades, as a reinforcement for door frame and windows frame. The shape of gap of the plastic mesh is either square or rectangular. It is also used for longer span of walls.

Also Read –

Types Of Plastering In Construction

Types Of Plaster Finishes In Construction

How To Calculate Cement, Sand For Plastering

Follow our Facebook Page, Linkedin Page &Telegram Channel.