Mesh banner wind performance
People often think mesh makes wind go away. It does not: it lets some air through, which can reduce the load on the banner and on whatever is holding it.
What the holes actually do.
Solid banners act like a sail. Wind hits them, pressure builds, and the force travels through every eyelet into the fence or scaffold. Mesh material is woven or perforated, so a portion of that air passes straight through. The banner billows less and tugs less.
But a mesh banner is still a big sheet that resists the air. How much it helps varies with the product, and no general figure can tell you what will happen on your site. It lowers the risk; it does not remove it.
Five things that change the outcome
- Height. Wind is generally stronger the higher you go, so a banner at roof level has a tougher time than one on a ground-floor fence.
- Surroundings. Open ground, seafronts and hilltops are exposed. Gaps between tall buildings can funnel gusts in city streets.
- Size. A larger area means a larger total force, even with mesh.
- What it is tied to. A temporary fence panel can be blown over by the same banner that a fixed railing would hold with ease.
- The fixings. Loose ties let a banner flap, and that movement slowly wears through hems and eyelets. See our guide to banner eyelet spacing.
On a scaffold or temporary fence
This is the point where it stops being a print question. Anything added to a scaffold can change the loads on it, so the scaffold designer or contractor must agree to it before fitting. The same goes for temporary fencing, which may need extra bracing or ballast. Ask the site manager, and have them confirm it in writing. Our comparison of PVC or mesh on scaffolding goes further.
Plan for storms
Agree in advance who will check the banner and who will take it down if a severe wind is forecast. Some site teams use ties that are meant to give way before the structure does, so ask yours what they prefer.
What you give up
Holes take away from the image. From a distance your eye fills in the gaps, but up close it looks softer and slightly darker. Bold words and simple images hold up best. Mesh can also look see-through against a bright sky, so think about what sits behind it. See mesh banners for finishing options. Mesh is priced to your size and fixings, so send us the details for a quote.
Large banners in open air.
Your questions.
Should I cut wind slits in a PVC banner instead?
Small slits or flaps are often suggested, but they tend to do little and they can start tears. If wind is a real worry, mesh is usually the better answer.
Can you tell me the wind speed my banner will survive?
No honest printer can give you one figure, as it depends on the structure, size and fixings. A competent person on site needs to assess it.
Does mesh work indoors?
It can, but there is usually no reason to use it indoors, because a solid material gives a sharper image and wind is not a concern.