Expanded Metal Sizes Explained: The Complete Beginner’s Guide

ANPING METAL MESH – Professional Metal Mesh Manufacturing

Expanded metal sizes explained is the ultimate guide for anyone confused by SWD, LWD, pattern numbers, gauges, and sheet sizes. Understanding expanded metal sizing is essential to choosing the right product for fencing, facades, flooring, screens, or industrial use.

metal mesh manufacturing company with 20+ years of experience, we break down every size term, measurement, and standard in simple, easy-to-understand language. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to read any expanded metal size chart or label with confidence.

Why Expanded Metal Sizes Seem Confusing (At First)

The good news: once you learn 4 basic terms, you’ll understand 100% of expanded metal sizes. This guide removes all the jargon and gives you clear, practical explanations.

The 4 Core Size Terms (FULLY Explained)

Term	What It Means (Simple)	Why It Matters
SWD Short Way of Diamond	The SHORTER diagonal of the diamond opening	Defines how narrow the openings are
LWD Long Way of Diamond	The LONGER diagonal of the diamond opening	Defines how wide the openings are
Strand Width	The width of the metal strip between diamonds	Determines strength & security
Thickness	How thick the original metal sheet is	Determines weight & load capacity

– that simply means “short diamond opening = 3/8 inch, long diamond opening = 1-1/4 inches”.

Pattern Numbers Explained (#1, #2, #3, #4, etc.)

Manufacturers use pattern numbers so you don’t have to memorize every SWD/LWD combination. Here are the most common standard patterns:

#0 / #1: Small openings – filters, vents, fine screens
#2: Medium openings – most popular for fences, screens, facades
#3: Medium-large – security, facades, platforms
#4 (4#): Large openings – heavy-duty flooring, grating, stairs
3/4 #9: Standard medium pattern – fencing, guards, general use

expanded metal size chart.

Sheet Sizes Explained (Standard & Custom)

Sheet Type	Imperial Size	Metric Size
Standard Sheet	4' × 8'	1220mm × 2440mm
Half Sheet	4' × 4'	1220mm × 1220mm
Lath Sheet	4' × 8'	1220mm × 2440mm

4x8 expanded metal price guide.

Thickness & Gauge Sizes Explained

Most expanded metal uses metric thickness (mm) or standard gauge (GA). Here’s the simple conversion:

Thickness (mm)	Gauge (GA)	Best Used For
0.5mm	26 GA	Stucco lath, very light screens
1.0mm – 1.5mm	20 – 18 GA	Fencing, screens, decor
2.0mm – 3.0mm	16 – 14 GA	Security, flooring, heavy use

Raised vs. Flattened Finish (Does It Affect Size?)

Raised (Standard): Natural textured, non-slip surface – for flooring, stairs, grating

Flattened: Rolled smooth – for expanded mesh metal screen, facades, decor

How to Choose the Right Size (Simple Guide)

• Stucco / Plaster Lath: 3/4 #9 (3/16" SWD × 3/4" LWD)
Only size used for expanded metal lath.

• Fencing / Security: #2 or #3 pattern (medium openings)
Strong strands, good visibility.

• Architectural Facades: #2 or #3 flattened aluminum
Modern, sleek, rust-proof.

• Flooring / Grating: #4 (4#) heavy pattern
Non-slip, high load capacity.

• Screens / Vents: #0 or #1 small pattern
Fine openings for protection + airflow.

Frequently Asked Questions: Expanded Metal Sizes

What does 3/4 #9 expanded metal mean?

3/4" = LWD (long diamond), #9 = standard strand/thickness. It’s a standard medium pattern for fencing and guards.

What is the most common expanded metal size?

#2 pattern (SWD 3/8" × LWD 1-1/4") is the most widely used for general purpose.

Are sizes the same for aluminum and steel?

Yes – SWD, LWD, and thickness are identical. Only material weight and rust resistance change.

What size is best for outdoor fencing?

#2 or #3 pattern, 1.5mm thickness, galvanized steel is ideal for security and durability.

Can I get custom sizes not on the chart?

Absolutely. We manufacture custom patterns, thicknesses, and sheet sizes for any project.

Does larger LWD mean stronger?

No – strength depends on STRAND WIDTH and THICKNESS, not diamond size.

Why Choose Our Expanded Metal Products

1. 100% Size Accuracy
Every sheet matches our expanded metal size chart with zero tolerance errors.

2. Full Material Range
Aluminum, galvanized steel, 304/316 stainless steel.

3. ISO-Certified Factory
Made in our professional Anping expanded metal factory.

4. Factory-Direct Wholesale Pricing
Low expanded metal mesh wholesale price for all sizes.

5. Global Shipping
Safe, fast delivery to worldwide ports.

Get a Free Quote Based on Your Size Needs

Standard sizes | custom sizes | free expert sizing help | free sample | global shipping

Request Free Quote Now

expanded metal sizes explained

Contents