Do Concrete Slabs Really Need Welded Wire Mesh?
Over the past decade, many production builders have turned to synthetic fiber mesh to reinforce concrete slabs to help reduce surface cracking. In the process, many builders have completely eliminated traditional welded wire mesh (WWM) . However, while fiber mesh has advantages, it also has potentially costly disadvantages. This may sound surprising, because the great appeal of fiber mesh is the time and money it can save. By using it, builders don't have to pay extra for concrete mesh and concrete contractors don't have to take the time to install it properly; in fact, some concrete contractors offer price breaks for fiber mesh. Unsightly Cracking Problems in Concrete Slabs While fiber does reduce surface cracking, it will not eliminate it completely. Worse yet, the lack of WWM can be a real weakness when cracks appear. This is because a properly installed WWM will prevent further separation of the concrete on either side of the crack and keep them in the same plan...