Should I use rebar or mesh for my garage floor?

For standard UK domestic garages, A193 mesh is recommended. It provides adequate reinforcement for normal vehicle loads at lower cost than rebar.

Is mesh cheaper than rebar?

Yes, mesh saves 30-50% overall. Material costs are similar per m², but mesh installs 2-3× faster, saving significant labour cost.

Which is stronger - rebar or mesh?

Both use B500B steel with 500 MPa yield strength. Rebar offers superior structural capacity for complex loads; mesh excels at crack control in flat slabs.

When should I use rebar instead of mesh?

Use rebar for foundations, retaining walls, suspended slabs, columns, beams, and any structural element specified by an engineer.

Can I use mesh for a driveway?

Yes, A252 mesh is commonly specified for UK driveways. For heavier use, consider A393 or double-layer A252.

What mesh size do I need for a patio?

A142 mesh (6mm wire) is sufficient for most patios with light foot traffic.

How much does concrete reinforcement cost in the UK?

UK prices (Dec 2025, ex VAT): A142 from £16.89/sheet, A193 from £21.74/sheet. Rebar: T8 from £1.55/bar (3m), T16 from £4.20/bar.

Rebar vs Mesh Comparison UK 2025

Aspect

Rebar

Mesh

Better

Yield Strength

500 MPa (B500B)

Equal

Tensile Strength

≥550 MPa

Equal

Standard

BS 4449:2005

BS 4483:2005

Equal

Material Cost

£1.55-26/bar

£17-34/sheet

Mesh

Labour Time

2-3× longer

Quick to lay

Mesh

Installation Skill

Moderate-High

Low-Moderate

Mesh

Structural Capacity

Superior

Good for slabs

Rebar

Crack Control

Good

Excellent

Mesh

Corrosion Resistance

Up to 100 years

Lower (thinner wire)

Rebar

Flexibility

Any shape

Flat slabs only

Rebar