Expanded Metal Size Chart: Complete Standard Sizes Guide
ANPING METAL MESH – Professional Expanded Metal Manufacturer
An expanded metal size chart is the most important reference tool for anyone buying, designing, or installing expanded metal mesh. It defines diamond opening sizes (SWD / LWD), sheet thickness, strand dimensions, and standard sheet sizes – so you can quickly select the right product for your project.
As a leading metal mesh manufacturing company with 20+ years of experience, we provide this complete, industry-standard expanded metal size chart for galvanized, aluminum, stainless steel, and lath products. This guide includes US standard and metric sizes for all common applications.
Key Terms in Expanded Metal Size Chart
Before using the chart, you must understand these 4 core dimensions:
- SWD (Short Way of Diamond): The shorter diagonal of the diamond opening (width)
- LWD (Long Way of Diamond): The longer diagonal of the diamond opening (length)
- Strand Width (SW): Width of the metal strip between openings
- Sheet Thickness (T): Thickness of the original metal sheet
All expanded metal is categorized and named using these measurements – they appear in every size chart and product specification.
Complete Standard Expanded Metal Size Chart (US & Metric)
This is the official industry size chart used in North America and global construction, industrial, and architectural projects.
| Pattern No. | SWD (Inch / mm) | LWD (Inch / mm) | Thickness (mm) | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lath 3.4 | 3/16" (4.8mm) | 3/4" (19mm) | 0.5mm | Expanded Metal Lath, Stucco |
| # 1 | 1/4" (6.4mm) | 1" (25.4mm) | 1.0mm | Filters, Guards |
| # 2 | 3/8" (9.5mm) | 1-1/4" (32mm) | 1.5mm | Fencing, Screens |
| # 3 | 1/2" (12.7mm) | 1-1/2" (38mm) | 2.0mm | Security, Facades |
| # 4 | 5/8" (16mm) | 2" (51mm) | 2.5mm | Walkways, Flooring |
| # 5 | 3/4" (19mm) | 2-1/2" (64mm) | 3.0mm+ | Heavy Industrial |
This chart covers 95% of all standard expanded metal applications. Custom sizes are available for special projects.
Standard Sheet Sizes for Expanded Metal
Expanded metal is produced in fixed sheet sizes – the global standard is:
| Sheet Type | Size (Feet) | Size (Metric) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Sheet | 4' × 8' | 1220mm × 2440mm |
| Half Sheet | 4' × 4' | 1220mm × 1220mm |
| Lath Sheet | 4' × 8' | 1220mm × 2440mm |
All sheets can be cut to custom size. For pricing reference, see our 4x8 expanded metal price guide.
Expanded Metal Thickness Chart (Most Common)
Thickness directly affects strength, weight, and price. Use this quick reference:
| Thickness (mm) | GAUGE | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 0.5mm | 26 GA | Metal Lath, Plaster |
| 1.0mm | 20 GA | Light Guards, Screens |
| 1.5mm | 18 GA | Fencing, Decor |
| 2.0mm | 16 GA | Security, Facades |
| 3.0mm+ | 14 GA & Lower | Flooring, Heavy Industrial |
Expanded Metal Size Chart by Application
Use this quick guide to match size to use – no technical knowledge needed:
• Stucco / Plaster Lath: 3.4 Pattern (SWD 3/16", LWD 3/4")
The only size used for expanded metal lath and stucco reinforcement.
• Architectural Facades: #2 – #3 Pattern (Medium Openings)
Ideal for building facade mesh and modern cladding.
• Security Fencing & Gates: #3 – #4 Pattern (Strong Strands)
High strength and visibility for safety barriers.
• Walkways & Flooring: #4 – #5 Pattern (Large, Thick)
Non-slip raised surface for industrial platforms.
• Filters & Vent Guards: #0 – #1 Pattern (Small Openings)
Fine mesh for protection and airflow.
Flattened vs. Raised Expanded Metal Sizes
Size dimensions remain the SAME for both finishes – only the surface changes:
- Raised (Standard): Natural textured finish after expanding
- Flattened: Rolled smooth – dimensions unchanged
You can use the same expanded metal size chart for both finishes.
Frequently Asked Questions: Expanded Metal Size Chart
What does SWD and LWD mean in the size chart?
What is the most common expanded metal size?
Can I get custom sizes not on the chart?
What thickness is best for expanded metal fencing?
Is the size chart the same for aluminum and steel?
Where can I find a printable expanded metal size chart?
Why Choose Our Expanded Metal Products
We produce expanded metal that strictly follows international size standards:
1. Precise Size Control
Every sheet matches the expanded metal size chart with zero tolerance errors.
2. Full Material Range
Galvanized steel, aluminum, 304/316 stainless steel, and copper.
3. ASTM & ISO Certified
Meets all global construction and industrial quality standards.
4. Factory-Direct Wholesale Pricing
Low expanded metal mesh wholesale price for all sizes.
5. Fast Global Shipping
From our certified Anping expanded metal factory to worldwide ports.
Get a Free Quote Based on the Size Chart
Standard sizes | custom sizes | free PDF size chart | wholesale price | global shipping
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