I need 1/4" mesh welded galvanized hardware cloth in a 60" width.
I've only been able to find it at one place thus far in that mesh and width, and then only in a 24 gauge (.025). Their price is $.39/sq ft.
That seems to be a good price compared to what I've found elsewhere, but I'm wondering if the 24 gauge is strong enough to prevent rodent intrusion when used as a barrier on the underside of floor joists.
What do you think ?
Thanks,
Arky
The National Forest Service has the following to say about hardware cloth used for rodent intrusion prevention.
Hardware Cloth. Hardware cloth is the best, and one of the easiest, materials to use for screening foundation vents, open pipes, and other holes. It effectively excludes mice and most native rats. However, light-gauge hardware cloth is not entirely resistant to more aggressive animals, such as Old World rats.
Use 16- to 19-gauge, welded-at-each-joint, ½-inch by ½-inch-mesh, galvanized-after-welding wire screen to exclude larger animals or aggressive rats. This is extremely strong material, and will last 10 to 20 years due to its heavy zinc coating.
Use 19- or heavier gauge, galvanized, ¼-inch or smaller mesh hardware cloth to keep smaller animals (e.g., mice) out. Covering hardware cloth with metal window screening also keeps insects out.
Go Here for links (http://countryplans.com/smf/index.php?topic=2919.msg30532#msg30532) to the FS Manual
Good info to know..... [cool]
I find 12 gauge to work the best on the 400 to 800 lbs. rodents up here. ;)