About this calculator
Count the sheets of welded wire mesh for a slab, allowing for overlap on every joint.
How it’s calculated
Sheets across = ceil((width − lap) ÷ (sheet width − lap)), and the same along the length. Multiply the two.
Worked example
With these inputs:
- Slab length
- 24 ft
- Slab width
- 20 ft
- Sheet size
- 5 × 10 ft sheet
- Overlap
- 6 in
the result is:
- Sheets needed
- 15 sheets
- Slab area
- 480 sq ft
- Mesh area bought
- 750 sq ft
Tips from the trade
- Lay sheets so laps are staggered and don’t all meet at one point.
- Lift the mesh on chairs so it sits in the slab, not under it.
Common questions
What overlap do I need?
Follow your engineer. A common rule is at least one full mesh square plus 2", about 6–8".
Results are estimates for planning and pricing. Check quantities against your drawings, the manufacturer’s data and the building code adopted in your province before ordering.