Wire Mesh Decking for Optimizing Warehouse Operations

Durable & Efficient Shelving Solutions for Warehouses

Pallets are among the most common warehouse storage solutions, with over five billion being used globally. The question is, how do businesses manage all of those pallets? When warehouses and distribution centers need a reliable means of stacking and organizing their pallets, they frequently turn to pallet racks constructed with wire mesh decking.

Made from durable welded steel, wire mesh decking creates efficient, organized storage systems that maximize the use of vertical space. NAWL offers top-quality wire decking and pallet rack accessories that creates durable and efficient shelving systems for warehouses all over North America.

Types of Wire Mesh Decks

There are several different types of wire mesh decking for pallet racking. Some of the most common options include:

Drop-In Flush Decking

Fits directly between the pallet rack beams for a clean, seamless look

Waterfall Wire Decking

Extends over the front and back of the beams for extra stability

Step Channel and Flared Channel Decking

Provides increased load capacity and can support different beam types

Inverted Channel Decking

Prevents buildup and is ideal for areas that need to be kept spotless

Now that you know a little bit about wire mesh decks, let’s look at some of the advantages they provide.

Benefits of Wire Decking

Pallet rack wire decking offers a number of distinct benefits, including the following:

Strength and Safety

Strength should always be a primary concern when constructing storage shelving for your warehouse. Wire mesh offers superb strength and safety in warehouse settings. It can support hundreds of pounds and give you peace of mind knowing your workers are safe.

Versatility

There are many different varieties of wire mesh, each of which boasts unique qualities. Our extensive selection makes it easy to find the right mesh decking for your facility.

Ease of Installation and Maintenance

Wire mesh is easy to install and requires very little maintenance, which reduces the long-term cost of ownership.

Improved Lighting

The mesh design of wire decking allows light to pass through lower levels of shelving. This feature helps reduce dark spots and ensures that your team members can clearly see the products they’re handling.

Cost-Effectiveness

While wire mesh has a higher price tag compared to wood, it’s more durable and cheaper to install. These attributes provide both short and long-term cost-saving opportunities for your business.

Industries That Benefit From Wire Mesh Decking

Steel wire decking can be a great option for numerous sectors, including:

Manufacturing
Warehousing
Food and beverage
Retail

Wire mesh decking offers an easy-to-clean solution that meets food safety standards and allows proper airflow. It’s also durable enough to hold dense objects and bulk goods. Wire decking can even be used to display and store products in retail and big-box stores.

New vs. Used Wire Mesh Decking

Both new and used wire mesh decking can be an excellent choice for pallet storage. Used options are more budget-friendly yet still provide excellent load capacity and durability. While used decking may show slight signs of wear, it often functions just as well as brand-new decking.

New wire decking, meanwhile, offers optimal appearance and uniformity. It will be free from any damage or defect that could make installation difficult.

Wire Mesh Decking vs. Wood Decking

When it comes to choosing decking for your pallet storage, there are two options: wood and wire mesh. Which is the better choice?

Wood decking comes with a lower upfront investment. However, wire mesh is easier to install, which balances out its higher initial cost. Additionally, wire mesh decking requires substantially less upkeep and has a longer service life, meaning wire mesh can offer a better return on investment.

Most importantly, steel mesh decking is safer. The grid design and durability greatly reduce the risk of fall-through.

How to Select the Right Wire Decking for a Warehouse

Before ordering wire decking, it’s important to determine the size that fits the pallet rack beams.
Beam length, width, and depth measurements are needed to ensure a precise fit, as the decking should sit flush and securely on the beams. Select decking type based on load capacity and application needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Weight Can Wire Decking Hold?
$\/$

Wire decks can usually hold approximately 1,500–3,000 lbs. The weight capacity will vary depending on the decking style selected and the quality of the supporting infrastructure.

How Do You Secure Wire Mesh to Wood?
$\/$

Mesh decking can be attached to wood using heavy-duty staples, screws, or nails. Align the wire mesh deck over the wood and fasten the edges at regular intervals.

How Do You Attach Wire Mesh to a Deck?
$\/$

Wire mesh racking can be attached to a deck with staples, U-shaped nails, or screws. First, position the wire mesh over the deck surface. Then, secure it along the edges and at evenly spaced points to hold it in place.

Wire Mesh Decking for Pallet Racks