BALDWINS METAL LAND
Frequently Asked Questions
Rebar (reinforcing bars) are individual steel bars with ribbed surfaces, ideal for vertical applications like columns, beams, walls, and foundations requiring directional strength. Reinforcing mesh consists of welded wire grids that provide uniform strength distribution across horizontal surfaces. Mesh is faster to install for slabs, driveways, and pavements, while rebar offers superior load-bearing capacity for heavy-duty structures. Many projects use both rebar for structural frameworks and mesh for slab reinforcement, to optimise strength and installation efficiency.
Mesh selection depends on slab thickness, expected loads, and application. For residential driveways and light slabs (75-100mm thick), Ref 193 (5.6mm wire) is typically sufficient. Standard residential floor slabs (100-150mm) use Ref 283 (7.1mm) or Ref 385 (8.0mm). Industrial floors and high-traffic areas require Ref 503 (10.0mm) or heavier. The “Ref” number indicates wire cross-sectional area—higher numbers mean thicker wire and greater strength. Consult your structural engineer or our technical team for specific recommendations based on soil conditions, slab dimensions, and load requirements.
Properly embedded reinforcing steel does not rust inside concrete because the curing process seals it from oxygen and moisture. The alkaline environment of concrete actually protects the steel through passivation. When correctly installed with adequate concrete cover (typically 40-75mm depending on exposure), reinforcement can last 50-100+ years. However, insufficient cover, cracks allowing water penetration, or exposure to chlorides (coastal areas) can cause corrosion. For harsh environments, specify galvanised or stainless steel reinforcement, or ensure proper concrete cover and quality concrete mix with appropriate water-cement ratios and admixtures.