How to enclose an open shed?

[Transimpact]

I want to screen enclose and vermin proof the open sides of my outdoor shed. My research tells me Australia has no screen tight type product, so that means aluminium screen rails which come in 5 mtr span, while my openings will be 6 mtr. Or does it? Could I roll the screening onto 6mtr thin timbers perhaps and tackle those onto a frame?

Is pet resistant screening also vermin proof or do I need to put vermin proof wire on the lower section, then screen the top? 

Space is 12x6mtrs with one end and half one side closed in, so 2 panels are 6x2.4 and 2 panels will incorporate a sliding door (2.4x2.4) probably. Leaving .600x2.4 in 2 remaining sections. 

 

Any thoughts?

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Transimpact. It's brilliant to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about vermin-proofing a shed.

For enclosing your shed, aluminium framing is an option, but as you've noted, they typically come in shorter lengths. You could join two sections together or consider using timber framing instead. Rolling the screening onto 6m timber battens and fixing them to a frame is certainly possible, but it may not provide as tight or durable a fit as purpose-built screens.

Pet-resistant screening is designed to withstand scratches and chewing but isn't necessarily vermin-proof. Small rodents can still chew through it if determined. A good approach would be to install fine vermin-proof mesh on the lower section (such as galvanised welded wire mesh) and use insect screening for the upper sections. This combination would help keep both insects and larger pests out.

For your space, constructing framed panels that fit each section—including the ones incorporating the sliding doors—would likely be the most secure and practical approach.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[Transimpact]

Hi Mitchell,
Yes, framing with timber seems best. I don't know what a batten is but I'm guessing thin strips of timber.
The vermin mesh is online elsewhere at 120 but only 900 at Bunnings? 600 high would be sufficient and not intrude on the view. Can bunnings get in 120?
I am assuming flyscreen will a) allow more breeze and b) provide a better view. 2.4-600=1.8. Can that width be ordered in?
Thanks again
Christine

[JacobZ]

Hi @Transimpact,

A batten is a general term referring to a narrow timber such as this 42 x 42mm Merbau Screening or 70 x 35mm Outdoor Framing H3 Treated Pine.

If you speak with the Special Orders team at your local store, you can order a 30m roll of mouse mesh that is 120cm tall. The producer's product code is 20019. More details can be found on their website - Mouse Mesh.

Flyscreen should allow more breeze compared to vermin mesh since it's a finer material. It should also provide a clearer view, as vermin mesh is typically coarser and more noticeable. You can buy 1.8m widths of flyscreen, such as this Cyclone 1830mm x 6m Fibreglass Patio Flyscreen, straight from the shelf. No need to order anything in.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob