How to install a rigid mesh fence?

Would you like to secure your property or mark out your land at a reasonable price? Then we strongly recommend choosing to install a fence made of rigid mesh panels. This cost-effective, sturdy and easy-to-install solution will quickly make you forget flexible mesh and its drawbacks. In this article, Districlos experts guide you from the choice of mesh through to installation, whatever type of ground you are planning to install it on. You can even add a privacy screen for more privacy. A complete guide to help you carry out your project step by step, with peace of mind!

Video guide

What is a rigid mesh fence?

Unlike flexible mesh, sold in rolls, this type of mesh is made up of rigid panels. Each of these panels consists of welded wires, with thicknesses and finishes that vary depending on the model.

Rigid mesh is also sometimes called:

welded panel mesh,
welded rigid panel mesh,
fence panel mesh,
rigid fence,
rigid mesh panel fence,
panel fencing,
fence panels.

What are the different types of rigid mesh?

Depending on your criteria and the constraints of your project, you can choose from different rigid mesh fence models.

Types of rigid mesh by shape

Flat panels

This type of mesh is made up of completely flat panels, with no relief. They are most often made of wires with a larger diameter than those used for folded panels. To further increase rigidity, the horizontal wires may be doubled or alternated. Their no-frills look will appeal to fans of clean design!

Folded panels

As their name suggests, these panels have one or more folds (small, large, triangular, rounded, etc.) designed to increase rigidity. They are usually cheaper than flat panels, which are considered more robust.

Types of rigid mesh by size

Rigid mesh fence panels generally measure between 60 and 200 cm in height, for a width of around 200 to 250 cm. They can be cut, which allows you in particular to adapt the length of your fence sections.

Types of rigid mesh by finish

Depending on the model, the welded wires that make up the mesh can be:

powder-coated,
plastic-coated,
or galvanised.

Be sure to choose the finish that matches how you plan to use your fence. Depending on its location, it will need to withstand a certain amount of bad weather. Wire diameter, as well as how tight the mesh is, should also be taken into account when assessing the strength of the mesh.

Why choose a rigid mesh fence?

Are you hesitating to choose this solution? Here is a comparison of the strengths and weaknesses of this type of fence, which should help you make your choice.

Advantages

Rigid mesh fencing has many advantages.

Strength

Rigid mesh fencing is particularly sturdy and durable. Unlike flexible mesh, it is unlikely to warp or sag over time. It also offers high resistance to wind and bad weather.

Adaptability

Rigid fence panels can be cut, so they can be adapted to the specifics of your project. They can be installed on all types of ground (flat or sloping), provided you use the right installation method.

Simplicity

Rigid mesh panels can be fixed in no time, thanks to the clever notched post system.

Forget the difficulties of installing roll mesh:

installing T-posts and struts,
installing tension wire,
laboriously unrolling the mesh,
tensioning the mesh,
stapling…

All you have to do now is clip your panels onto the posts, as with DISTRICLOS’s HILICLOS system. Please note: on a round post, the panels are instead fixed using hose clamps or fixing clamps.

Discretion

Perfectly straight and understated, rigid mesh blends easily into your garden setting (especially if it is full of greenery). Far from the sometimes intrusive look of an imposing fence, it discreetly fades into the background!

Value for money

This solution undoubtedly offers the best value for money for fencing and securing your land. Much cheaper than a wooden, steel, PVC or wrought-iron fence, it still provides a very good level of security.

Disadvantages

Even if there are only a few, they can make you hesitate before buying. Yet they are very easy to address!

Aesthetics

While some appreciate the simple, clean look of a rigid panel, others regret its overly plain appearance, considered not very refined. But in that case, why not dress it up with hedges, flowers or climbing plants? This is the time to let your creativity speak!

Transparency

Are you looking for maximum privacy? Rest assured: the transparency of rigid mesh is not inevitable. It is in fact an excellent support for installing privacy slats.

What are the different ways to install a rigid mesh fence?

For a successful installation, it is important to adapt how you install rigid panels to the uncertainties and constraints of the ground where the project will be installed. Here are the steps to follow for each installation method.

Steps for installing rigid mesh directly in the ground

Trust us, this installation method is child’s play:

Dig your holes, keeping the correct distance between each post.
Install the first post in the first hole.
Fix the panel to the first post using the notches provided for this purpose.
In the same way, clip the next panels one after another (remember to install wooden battens to keep the panels at the right height).
Carefully check the levels of your fence.
Finish by setting the posts in concrete.

Steps for installing rigid mesh with base plates on a concrete plinth

Insert the base plates under each post.
For installation, proceed in the same way as for an in-ground installation.
To fix the posts to the support, insert your wall plugs using a drill.

Steps for installing rigid mesh on sloping ground

To install rigid panels following the slope of a plot of land, you can choose from several solutions.

Each post has notches that allow you to clip the panels every 10 cm. So, at each post, you can slightly adjust the level of your panel up or down (please note: the offset height must be a multiple of 10 cm!).

Installing rigid mesh on a steep slope

If the slope is steeper, you can consider cutting the panels. This will reduce the centre-to-centre distance (i.e., the spacing) between posts, and therefore reduce the height of the steps to be created. In this case, you will need to plan for twice as many posts.

Installing rigid mesh with corners

Most notched post systems make it possible to create corners of any size using a single post. To do this, simply rotate the panel in the post once it has been clipped in place.

To learn everything about installing rigid mesh on sloping ground, we recommend consulting our guide on the subject!

You are now ready to install your rigid mesh fence on your land! Before you get started, make sure you are properly equipped and check that you have all the necessary materials. There is nothing worse than realising halfway through that a part or tool is missing! To make sure you do not forget anything, download the Districlos experts’ fence installation checklist. It is now up to you!