About this calculator
Count the sheets of reinforcing mesh such as Ref 193 or Ref 245 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. South African mesh comes in 6.0 × 2.4 m sheets with wires at 200 × 200 mm, in references from Ref 100 to Ref 888 (Macsteel); the number is roughly the mass in kg per m² × 100, so a Ref 193 sheet weighs about 27.8 kg (1.93 kg per m²) and a Ref 100 sheet 14.4 kg.
Worked example
With these inputs:
- Slab length
- 7 m
- Slab width
- 5 m
- Sheet size
- 6.0 × 2.4 m sheet
- Mesh reference
- Ref 193
- Overlap
- 300 mm
the result is:
- Sheets needed
- 6 sheets
- Slab area
- 35 m²
- Mesh area bought
- 86.4 m²
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 the engineer’s drawings. South African suppliers recommend at least 200 to 300 mm; this calculator uses 300 mm unless you change it.
Results are estimates for planning and pricing. Check quantities against your drawings, the manufacturer’s data and SANS 10400 (the National Building Regulations) and your local municipality before ordering.