Fence mesh signage is great for creating brand and project awareness, while concealing the development works taking place within.

We regularly produce kilometres of fence mesh signage for Perth’s building and construction companies and have learnt a thing or two over the last two decades.

Sales Manager Scott shares his six top tips for implementing fence mesh on site.

1. A good measure-up
I can’t stress enough the importance of undertaking a qualified measure-up. You may know the measurements of the fence face but your signage supplier will account room for the install method. At Discus, your account manager will conduct an onsite measure-up to ensure that the best approach to printing and installation is used to suit the fence and your site/project requirements.

2. Engage your signage supplier at the start
Including your signage supplier at the infancy stage means they will recommend the best method for printing the fence mesh – whether in long lengths or individual fence panels -which will impact your artwork design. If your designer is given the panel sizes, they can design the artwork to suit.

3. Individual panels is best approach
Printing and installing individual panels for temporary fencing is best practice approach. It allows for a tight install, looks great and is more easily replaced if a section becomes vandalised or damaged. You also have good wind resistance with this approach, allowing airflow between the panels.

4. Don’t print lengths too long
If it’s best suited that your fence mesh is printed in longer sections, commonly done for permanent fencing, I generally don’t recommend going any longer than 10-11 metres. This provides some flexibility for replacing sections, whether due to vandalism, damage or change in sales message. Remember the longer the section to be replaced, the longer the turn-around time and higher the print and install cost.

5. Use wire for long-term fence mesh
If your fence mesh is going to be up longer than 3 months, I generally recommend adding wire to the installation process. After the mesh is applied to the fence with cable ties, the installer applies two thin wire lines over the face of the mesh. This reinforces the mesh to the fence, avoiding wind flap. The wire is thin, and fairly invisible.

6. Print overs
If your fence mesh project is printed in long lengths I always recommend printing extra mesh. Why? Because it is much more cost effective to print upfront as part of the main job and in the case of vandalism or damage, having extras on hand delivers a quick turn around.