Facade Mesh

Facade Mesh

Facade mesh is a term for metal mesh specifically used as facade cladding. Essentially, it is architectural mesh applied to the exterior skin of buildings. Facade mesh is made from weather-resistant materials—usually stainless steel, sometimes aluminum or bronze—and is designed to withstand large surface requirements as well as the effects of wind, weather, and temperature.

Characteristic of facade mesh are the large-format panels or rolls used. Unlike small wire screens or filters, facade mesh often spans several meters in length and height. For example, GKD produces mesh rolls that can be stretched over several floors without horizontal interruption. This requires high manufacturing precision and tear resistance of the mesh.

In the design of facade mesh, mesh size and wire thickness play a crucial role: they determine the degree of transparency. A mesh with, for example, 50% open area still offers clear visibility and is chosen when, for instance, the view from inside should be preserved or the underlying facade should remain visible. A denser mesh (e.g., 30% open) appears from a distance almost like a continuous metal surface, which may be desired to achieve a homogeneous look.

Facade mesh often serves practical purposes:

• Sun protection: They reduce direct sunlight entering the building interior and thus overheating in summer.
• Privacy screen: They can deter curious looks without fully enclosing the building (e.g., in parking garages—vehicles and interiors disappear behind a “metal curtain”).
• Fall protection: When metal mesh is used instead of parapets or solid walls (e.g., in front of ventilation balconies or maintenance walkways), it must meet standards for railing infills. Stainless steel mesh with sufficient strength and tight mesh can fulfill this function.
• Wind and weather protection: Although permeable, facade mesh slows wind somewhat and can partially block driving rain depending on the angle. However, they are not a sealed skin—underlying components must still be weatherproof. Installation of facade mesh varies depending on size and material. Stainless steel mesh is often clamped at the top and bottom and guided on the sides to achieve even tension. Aluminum mesh can also be stretched in frames since it is somewhat more prone to expansion (thermal expansion). It is important that the fastenings are adjustable to perfectly tension the mesh on site and allow for later re-tensioning if needed.

One advantage of facade mesh is low maintenance: they are resistant to vandalism, do not require painting, and most dirt is washed away by rain. If a panel is ever damaged, it can be replaced with relatively little effort.

In summary, facade mesh is an innovative solution in facade construction for creating large, attractive, and at the same time functional building envelopes. They combine technical requirements (high-quality material, durability) with architectural creativity and have therefore become firmly established in the repertoire of modern architecture.