{"id":2351,"date":"2018-05-09T17:53:23","date_gmt":"2018-05-09T17:53:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.directmetals.com\/?page_id=2351"},"modified":"2025-10-07T20:05:21","modified_gmt":"2025-10-07T20:05:21","slug":"faqs","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.directmetals.com\/resources\/faqs\/","title":{"rendered":"FAQs"},"content":{"rendered":"

Do you have a question about our specialty metal and fiberglass products? Chances are that others have asked the same question! Check out the most common specialty metal questions that we encounter and their answers. If your question isn't answered here, please contact us<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> What is an architectural metal supplier<\/a>?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> An architectural metal supplier<\/a> is a company or business that specializes in providing various metal products and solutions specifically for architectural applications. As an architectural metal supplier<\/a>, we offer a wide range of metal materials and finishes that are commonly used in building and construction<\/a> projects.
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Q:<\/strong> How quickly can we expect our order to ship?<\/span><\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Stock orders entered before noon will ship the same day. After noon, they will ship the next day. Processed or fabricated orders take longer depending on the project specifications.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> What is the transit time from your plant to mine?<\/span><\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Of course, that depends on where your plant is located, but with the availability of motor carriers and the competitive nature of our business, “next day” can be achieved within several hundred miles of our plants. Second day delivery will usually be the case in other instances.
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Q:<\/strong> What are the benefits of using an architectural metal supplier<\/a> for my construction<\/a> project?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Using an architectural metal supplier<\/a> can offer several benefits. As an architectural metal supplier<\/a>, we provide high-quality metal materials that are specifically designed for architectural purposes, ensuring durability and longevity. Additionally, we have a wide selection of finishes and designs, allowing you to choose the perfect metal elements to match your project's aesthetic requirements.
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Q:<\/strong> Where are your warehouses located?<\/span><\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Direct Metals®<\/sup> carries one of the largest inventories of specialty metal and fiberglass products in the nation. We have warehouse locations in Atlanta, GA and Pleasant Prairie, WI that carry inventory for our wire mesh<\/a>, perforated metal<\/a>, expanded metal<\/a>, bar grating<\/a>, safety grating<\/a>, fiberglass grating<\/a>, and architectural metal products.
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Q:<\/strong> Will you cut-to-size?<\/span><\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> As an architectural metal supplier<\/a>, we will cut anything in our inventory to your project specifications. In some cases, we have to charge for the entire stock size piece, but we will always ask if we should ship the drops along with the finished part.
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Q:<\/strong> Can you carry my special sizes?<\/span><\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Yes, we like this kind of business with certain commitments from the customer. This will help ensure quick delivery of your metal or fiberglass grating<\/a> order.
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Q:<\/strong> What is your return policy?<\/span><\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> We will take anything back if it originally came from us, is in good condition, and if it is a normally stocked item. There is a minimal charge to cover the expenses to do so. In the event of our error or a quality problem which is not your own, the material can be returned after approval at no cost to the customer.
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Q:<\/strong> How can I determine the quantity of metal materials needed for my project?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> To determine the quantity of metal materials required for your project, you should provide detailed plans and specifications to us, your architectural metal supplier<\/a>, by requesting a quote<\/a>. We can use this information to calculate the precise quantities and assist you in ordering the appropriate amount of materials.
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Q:<\/strong> What are your cutting tolerances?<\/span><\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Depending on the product, from +\/- 1\/16" to +\/- 1\/8". Special fabrications may require slightly greater tolerances.
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Q:<\/strong> Can you supply drawings?<\/span><\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Yes, for more detailed grating<\/a> fabrication jobs. We often do this for approval and for erection.
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Q:<\/strong> What are your hours of operation?<\/span><\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Our normal hours are 8:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M., E.S.T.
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Q:<\/strong> Can you export metal to my foreign based plant?<\/span><\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Yes! Direct Metals®<\/sup> exports through all U.S.A. ports.
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Q:<\/strong> Is your pricing competitive?<\/span><\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Yes! With the volume of our purchases and our attention to operating expenses, our costs are well controlled, and we pass these advantages on to our customers.
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Q:<\/strong> Can you assist me with technical questions?<\/span><\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Our Direct Metals®<\/sup> team is experienced, knowledgeable, and well trained. While they are not architects or engineers, they can answer many of your metal and fiberglass grating<\/a> questions. When questions arise that are outside their area of expertise, they will often be able to help by consulting with others inside or outside of our company. In some instances, they may refer you to another source.
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Q:<\/strong> What kind of quality control do you have?<\/span><\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> It is very simple - “measure twice and cut once”. Our materials are closely inspected and labeled on arrival in our warehouse and again on shipment to our customers. At least two people are involved in this inspection process, both in and out. As an architectural metal supplier<\/a>, shipping a quality product to our customers is our highest priority.
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Q:<\/strong> How can I provide feedback about my experience with Direct Metals®<\/sup>?<\/span><\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> We appreciate receiving feedback from our customers. Direct Metals®<\/sup> values the opinions of our customers and use the feedback we receive to continually improve our company, products, and processes. If you would like to share your feedback with us, please take our customer survey<\/a><\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> What fabrication processes do you offer?<\/span><\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> We offer a complete list of value-added fabrication processes to our line of specialty metals and fiberglass grating<\/a> inventory. Our fabrication capabilities include shearing<\/a>, stamping, drilling, blanking, welding, sawing, punching, rolling, slitting, as well as laser, plasma, and water jet cutting.
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Q:<\/strong> Can you help us meet OSHA and ADA standards?<\/span><\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Yes! We have extensive experience in producing products to these standards. Our GRIP STRUT™ safety grating<\/a> is used in many projects to fix slipping problems where OSHA standards are an issue. We sell close spaced gratings that satisfy the ADA requirement. Our large opening<\/a> wire mesh<\/a> is used widely as handrail panels which satisfy the OSHA standards.
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Q:<\/strong> Where can I find information about projects completed with Direct Metals®<\/sup> products?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> To learn more about projects that have been completed with our products, visit our Case Studies<\/strong><\/a> page! There you can find projects completed with stainless wire mesh<\/a>, galvanized bar grating<\/a>, aluminum expanded metal<\/a>, and more. We have supplied industrial metal and fiberglass grating<\/a> materials for countless projects across the nation. As an architectural metal manufacturer<\/a>, we have supplied products for simple to complex architectural projects. No job is too small or too large for Direct Metals®<\/sup>!
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Q:<\/strong> How can I keep up with the latest news about Direct Metals®<\/sup>?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Stay connected with Direct Metals®<\/sup> by following us on social media! You can follow us on Facebook<\/strong><\/a>, Instagram<\/strong><\/a>, Twitter<\/strong><\/a>, and LinkedIn<\/strong><\/a>. You can also sign up for our email newsletter to be the first to know about company news, events, new products, projects, and more!<\/span><\/p>\n

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Wire Mesh FAQs<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Q:<\/strong> What are the advantages of using stainless steel wire mesh<\/a>?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Some of the advantages of stainless steel wire mesh<\/a> include high strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. Stainless wire mesh<\/a> is also easy to clean and maintain and is available in a wide range of sizes and Mesh<\/div>Number of openings per lineal inch, measured from center of wire to center of wire. This term is often used when referring to wire mesh, which is available in aluminum mesh, copper mesh, brass mesh, bronze mesh, mild steel mesh, pre-galvanized mesh, and stainless steel mesh.\" class=\"glossaryLink \">mesh<\/a> configurations.<\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> What can I use stainless steel wire mesh<\/a> for?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Stainless steel wire mesh<\/a> is used in various applications, including filtration<\/a>, screening<\/a>, reinforcement, security, and decorative<\/a> purposes. Stainless wire mesh<\/a> can be found in industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, construction<\/a>, and aerospace.<\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> What is the difference between woven and welded wire mesh<\/a>?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Woven wire mesh<\/a> is made by weaving individual strands of wire together in a pattern, while welded wire mesh<\/a> is made by welding the intersections of the wire strands together. Woven wire mesh<\/a> can have smaller openings than welded wire mesh<\/a>. We offer both woven and welded wire mesh<\/a> in carbon wire mesh<\/a>, galvanized wire mesh<\/a>, and stainless wire mesh<\/a>. Aluminum wire mesh<\/a>, copper wire mesh<\/a>, and brass wire mesh<\/a> are available in woven only.<\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> How is stainless steel wire mesh<\/a> measured?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Stainless steel wire mesh<\/a> is measured in Mesh<\/div>Number of openings per lineal inch, measured from center of wire to center of wire. This term is often used when referring to wire mesh, which is available in aluminum mesh, copper mesh, brass mesh, bronze mesh, mild steel mesh, pre-galvanized mesh, and stainless steel mesh.\" class=\"glossaryLink \">mesh<\/a> count<\/a>, which refers to the number of openings or holes per linear inch. For example, a 100 Mesh<\/div>Number of openings per lineal inch, measured from center of wire to center of wire. This term is often used when referring to wire mesh, which is available in aluminum mesh, copper mesh, brass mesh, bronze mesh, mild steel mesh, pre-galvanized mesh, and stainless steel mesh.\" class=\"glossaryLink \">mesh<\/a> screen has 100 openings per inch. Wire diameter and aperture size are also important factors in determining the properties and performance of the stainless wire mesh<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> How do I select the right stainless steel wire mesh<\/a> for my application?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> The selection of the right stainless steel wire mesh<\/a> depends on several factors, including the intended use, environment, temperature, pressure, and chemical exposure. Consult with us to ensure that the stainless wire mesh<\/a> selected is appropriate for the specific application.<\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> How do I clean stainless steel Mesh<\/div>Number of openings per lineal inch, measured from center of wire to center of wire. This term is often used when referring to wire mesh, which is available in aluminum mesh, copper mesh, brass mesh, bronze mesh, mild steel mesh, pre-galvanized mesh, and stainless steel mesh.\" class=\"glossaryLink \">mesh<\/a>?<\/p>\n

A: <\/strong>Mild soapy water and a soft brush can be used for the general cleaning of stainless wire mesh<\/a>. For tougher stains or residues, specific stainless steel cleaners are available. It's crucial to rinse thoroughly and dry to prevent water spots on your stainless steel Mesh<\/div>Number of openings per lineal inch, measured from center of wire to center of wire. This term is often used when referring to wire mesh, which is available in aluminum mesh, copper mesh, brass mesh, bronze mesh, mild steel mesh, pre-galvanized mesh, and stainless steel mesh.\" class=\"glossaryLink \">mesh<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> Can stainless steel Mesh<\/div>Number of openings per lineal inch, measured from center of wire to center of wire. This term is often used when referring to wire mesh, which is available in aluminum mesh, copper mesh, brass mesh, bronze mesh, mild steel mesh, pre-galvanized mesh, and stainless steel mesh.\" class=\"glossaryLink \">mesh<\/a> be cut to size?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Yes, we can cut stainless steel Mesh<\/div>Number of openings per lineal inch, measured from center of wire to center of wire. This term is often used when referring to wire mesh, which is available in aluminum mesh, copper mesh, brass mesh, bronze mesh, mild steel mesh, pre-galvanized mesh, and stainless steel mesh.\" class=\"glossaryLink \">mesh<\/a> to your specifications! In some cases, we have to charge for the entire stock size piece of stainless wire mesh<\/a>, but we will always ask if we should ship the drops along with the finished part.<\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> How does Direct Metals®<\/sup> make their welded wire mesh<\/a>?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Our welded wire mesh<\/a> consists of horizontal and perpendicular wire strands that are resistance welded at each intersection.<\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> What are the common applications for welded wire mesh<\/a>?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Welded wire mesh<\/a> has a wide range of applications. It is commonly used for making fences, grates, baskets, racks, grilles, screens, and more!<\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> Can your welded wire mesh<\/a> be customized to specific requirements?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Yes, Direct Metals®<\/sup> carries a variety of spacing and diameter configurations for welded wire mesh<\/a>. Whether it’s trimmed or untrimmed, we can fabricate your welded wire mesh<\/a> to meet your exact specifications.<\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> What materials do you offer for welded wire mesh<\/a>?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> This wire mesh<\/a> product can be produced in many materials, such as steel wire mesh<\/a>, stainless wire mesh<\/a>, aluminum wire mesh<\/a>, and galvanized wire mesh<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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Q: <\/strong>Can wire mesh<\/a> cloth be used in high-temperature environments?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Yes, wire mesh<\/a> cloth made with stainless steel are designed to withstand high temperatures, making them suitable for industrial ovens, furnaces, and other high-heat environments.<\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> Is wire mesh<\/a> cloth recyclable?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Yes, wire mesh<\/a> cloth made from stainless steel is recyclable. This makes it an environmentally friendly option in many applications.<\/p>\n

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Expanded Metal FAQs<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Q:<\/strong> Where can I find expanded metal<\/a> near me?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> We specialize in supplying high-quality expanded metal<\/a> sheets for a variety of applications. Conveniently located in Georgia and Wisconsin, we’re your trusted local expanded metal<\/a> sheet supplier.<\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> What is aluminum expanded metal<\/a>?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Aluminum expanded metal<\/a> is a type of metal sheet that is uniformly slit and stretched, forming<\/a> diamond shaped openings in the sheet that allow for light, air, heat, and sound passage. The strands and bonds of the diamonds in the sheet add strength and rigidity. Since no metal is lost in the expanding process, aluminum expanded metal<\/a> (or any other material used in expanded metal<\/a>) is a cost-effective alternative to perforated metal<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> What types of aluminum expanded metal<\/a> are available?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Products we can make with aluminum expanded metal<\/a> include Standard Expanded Metal<\/a>, Flattened<\/a> Expanded Metal<\/a>, Architectural Expanded Metal<\/a>, Micro Expanded Metal<\/a>, Expanded Metal Grating<\/a>, and Custom Fabricated Expanded Metal<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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Q:<\/strong> What are the benefits of using aluminum expanded metal<\/a>?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Aluminum expanded metal<\/a> offers several advantages, including high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, excellent durability, good airflow and visibility, and ease of installation.<\/p>\n

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Q: <\/strong>What materials does Direct Metals®<\/sup> use to make expanded metal<\/a>?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> We offer many material options for expanded metal<\/a> such as carbon, galvanized, stainless, and aluminum. Be sure to consider factors like strength, weight, and resistance to environmental conditions when choosing a material type for your project.<\/p>\n

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Q: <\/strong>Can Direct Metals®<\/sup> customize expanded metal<\/a> for my specific project needs?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Yes, as an architectural metal supplier<\/a>, we can cut and fabricate expanded metal<\/a> to specific sizes and shapes to meet unique requirements. Request a quote<\/a> for customized expanded metal<\/a> today!<\/p>\n

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Bar Grating FAQs<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Q: <\/strong>Is aluminum grating<\/a> from Direct Metals®<\/sup> available in different styles and sizes?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Yes, our aluminum grating<\/a> comes in various styles including welded, swage-locked, and press-locked designs. It is also available in a range of Bar<\/div>Metal grating products constructed with a series of load bearing bars that are attached together in a specified pattern by cross bars.\" class=\"glossaryLink \">bar<\/a> sizes and spacings to suit different applications and requirements.<\/p>\n

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Q: <\/strong>What materials are available for welded bar grating<\/a>?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> We offer welded bar grating<\/a> in the following materials: carbon steel<\/a>, aluminum, galvanized steel, and stainless steel.<\/p>\n

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Q: <\/strong>How does galvanized welded bar grating<\/a> differ from untreated grating<\/a>?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Galvanized welded bar grating<\/a> has a zinc coating that provides additional corrosion resistance, making it suitable for outdoor or wet environments. Untreated grating<\/a> is more prone to rust and may require additional protective measures.<\/p>\n

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Q: <\/strong>What are the typical applications of welded bar grating<\/a>?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Common applications of welded bar grating<\/a> include walkways, platforms, stair treads<\/a>, trenches, drains, and industrial flooring.<\/p>\n

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Fiberglass Grating FAQs<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Q: <\/strong>Is pultruded<\/a> fiberglass grating<\/a> slip-resistant?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Yes, pultruded<\/a> fiberglass grating<\/a> is designed to provide excellent slip resistance, even in wet or oily conditions. Many options are available with a textured surface<\/a> or embedded grit for added traction and workplace safety to use as slip resistant stair treads<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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Q: <\/strong>Does pultruded<\/a> fiberglass grating<\/a> meet industry standards?<\/p>\n

A:<\/strong> Yes, all fiberglass grating<\/a> products from Direct Metals®<\/sup>, including pultruded<\/a> fiberglass grating<\/a>, are manufactured to meet high industry standards, such as those outlined by the National Association of Architectural Metal Manufacturers (NAAMM). For specific certifications, contact our team.<\/p>\n

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Q: <\/strong>What applications is pultruded<\/a> fiberglass grating<\/a> commonly used in?<\/p>\n

A: <\/strong>Pultruded<\/a> fiberglass grating<\/a> is commonly used in applications such as:<\/p>\n