Tech-Fab Europe
ETICS
Open Mesh Fabrics: Definition
OPEN MESH FABRICS DEFINITION
- A woven material made from akali-resistant glass fibres, typically E-glass
- Construction made from warp (MD) and weft (CD) fixed together by alkali resistant coating, typically SBR.
Open Mesh Fabrics: Key parts for ETICS performance and durability
MESH IS EMBEDDED IN RENDER FOLLOWING THE RULE 2/3 OF RENDER, MESH AND 1/3 OF RENDER ON THE MESH TO CREATE PERFECT BASE COAT
- 1 – Adhesive
- 2 – Thermal insulation board
- 3 – Mechanical fixing devices (eg. plate anchors)
- 4 – Base coat
- 5 – Reinforcement (e.g glass fiber mesh)
- 6 – Finishing layer: finishing coat with a key coat (optional) and/or decorative coat (optional)
Open Mesh Fabrics: Why quality of mesh matters
Fiberglass mesh may seem like a small and often overlooked component, but it plays a critical role in the insulation system:
- It absorbs stress and prevents cracks,
- It ensures the stability of the entire base coat,
- It protects the facade from mechanical damage and significantly extends its lifespan.
If the mesh is of poor quality (low weight, poor impregnation), the degradation process can start within just a few days in base coat – leading to microcracks and eventually a cracked facade.
Open Mesh Fabrics: Conclusion
- Reinforcement Layer: The mesh acts as a reinforcement within the base coat, increasing the system’s mechanical strength.
- Crack Prevention: It distributes stresses evenly across the surface, reducing the risk of cracks caused by thermal expansion, contraction, or structural movement.
- Impact Resistance: Provides additional resistance against mechanical impacts (e.g., hail, accidental knocks).
- Durability: Enhances the long-term stability of the insulation system by preventing localized failures.