The most common types of expanding metal are:
- Standard expanding metal is extremely versatile and economical. It comes in a variety of gauge and opening sizes. It is often used to provide a rigid, raised, slip-resistant surface. In standard expanding metal the strands and bonds are set at a uniform angle. This provides extra strength and rigidity whilst allowing maximum air circulation.
- Flattened expanding metal is produced by cold rolling expanding metal to flatten it. It is chosen when a smooth surface is required. The flattening process generally elongates the length of the sheet by 5%.
- Hexagonal expanded metal has hexagonal openings instead of the usual diamond ones. The hexagonal shape gives the metal extra strength while allowing the passage of air, light, heat, sound and liquid. Hexagonal openings are preferred over diamond openings when the metal is heavily expanding.
- Architectural expanded metal features the diamond pattern with added architectural features. The result is a design which combines good aesthetics, increased security and privacy, and improved ventilation. It is suitable for functional and decorative purposes, or a combination of the two.
- Micro expanded metal features small openings in light gauge metal. The openings can be standard, flattened, hexagonal and square. This type of expanding metal is often used in filters.
