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How to install wire mesh in concrete

Person tying wire around pieces of reinforced steel in a dirt trench.

Overview

We'll teach you how to prepare reinforced steel before you pour your concrete. You'll learn how to cut steel to size with an angle grinder as well as a simple way to tie steel together when you need to overlap it.

Steps

1Lay the reinforced steel in the trench

Lay a line of reinforced steel along the length of the trench. Then put the plastic bar chairs under the steel to raise it slightly off the bottom. The bar chairs should be placed in left and right pairs, every metre or so, the whole way down the trench.

2Extend a line of reinforced steel in the trench

If your trench is longer than one piece of reinforced steel, lay a second piece to cover the gap. Measure the distance you need to span and use your angle grinder to cut a length of steel that is at least 500mm longer. Then lay the added length in position, prop it up on bar chairs and tie the overlapping sections together with joining wire. Once your whole trench is reinforced, you’re ready to pour your concrete.
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.