The larger the opening (the space between the wires), the greater the chance of animals entering the solar array. The industry has standardized on a maximum opening size of 1/2 inch, which will block most animals without restricting airflow. 1/2 inch wire mesh is sometimes called 2×2 mesh or #2 mesh.
19 gauge wire (approximately 0.04 inches in diameter) is recommended for long-term durability. Note that this wire is much thicker than chicken wire and will hold its shape after bending.
Galvanizing also affects the stiffness and strength of the wire. Ungalvanized wire mesh is much softer and less flexible than galvanized mesh like galvanized hexagonal mesh. We do not recommend non-galvanized mesh. Durability, corrosion resistance, mesh size, and ease of installation are a combination of considerations. The stainless steel mesh for solar panels, galvanized steel mesh, PVC-coated steel mesh, and aluminum alloy mesh are all good choices,
We only recommend galvanized, plastic-coated wire mesh. Both treatments should give the wire mesh the same life as the PV system (although slight surface rusting may occur). Choose a reputable manufacturer, as there is no easy way to tell the quality of these treatments at a glance. The photo to the right shows a poor quality wire mesh that has rusted prematurely.
YZ wire netting for sale can be galvanized using two different techniques - hot-dip galvanizing and electroplating. Hot-dip galvanizing creates a thicker, tougher barrier against moisture.
A typical residential PV array requires 100 to 300 feet of wire mesh for enclosure. Wire mesh is usually sold in 100-foot rolls, but some dealers will cut it into shorter lengths (usually with a significant markup per foot). The wire mesh width required for a particular PV array depends on the mounting system and mounting method - but 4-inch, 6-inch, and 8-inch are the most common.
Galvanized solar bird-proof wire mesh
Stainless steel solar bird-proof wire mesh
Black PVC solar bird-proof wire mesh