Expanded Metal Sheet

An expanded metal sheet is a single sheet of metal that has been simultaneously slit and stretched into a diamond-shaped mesh. Nothing is woven or welded, so the sheet keeps the strength and rigidity of the parent metal while weighing far less. General Hardware has been manufacturing expanded metal sheets in Manila since 1964, in standard 4ft x 8ft sizes and made-to-order specifications.

How expanded metal is made

We press, shear and stretch a solid metal plate so it opens into a pattern of diamond holes bounded by interlinked bars, or strands. Because it is formed from one plate rather than joined pieces, the sheet is strong, rigid and light at the same time. That combination is why expanded metal sheet is used across construction, industrial and architectural projects.

Sizes, gauges and materials

Every expanded metal sheet is defined by four things, and we can vary all of them:

• Material: mild steel, stainless steel or aluminum
• Sheet size: standard 4ft x 8ft, plus custom cut sizes
• Mesh (aperture) size: the diamond opening, from small mesh through to large open
• patterns
• Strand and gauge: the width and thickness of the bars, which set the strength and open area

We hold a wide range of standard combinations and manufacture custom sizes when the job needs them. If you know the load, the open area or the look you are after, we will match themesh and gauge to it.

Standard vs custom sheets

• Choose a standard 4ft x 8ft sheet if you need a common mesh quickly and can work to stock sizes.
• Choose custom if you have set panel dimensions, a specific open area, or a material and gauge that stock does not cover.

What expanded metal sheet is used for

Construction: walkways, grates, mezzanine flooring, infill panels

• Safety and security: protective fencing, machine guards, catwalks, parking-lot ramps
• Architectural: facades, sunscreens, partitions and cladding

The same sheet works structurally and decoratively, which is why one material covers so many trades.

Buy expanded metal sheet from the manufacturer

We are the Philippines’ first and only expanded metal specialist, manufacturing since 1964. Buying direct means you get the size and gauge you actually need, not the nearest stock item. Contact General Hardware on +63 (02) 8911-0413 or genhardware128@gmail.com for sizes and a quote.