Meta description: A detailed guide on the best places to buy high-quality metal mesh for your kitchen or bathroom cabinets. We cover online shops, hardware stores, and specialty suppliers to find affordable but durable options.

Installing metal mesh on cabinet doors and panels can give a kitchen or bathroom a stylish, modern look while keeping contents secure and visible. With the right metal mesh material, you can add an elegant, industrial vibe to any space. However, finding the best source for attractive yet durable options can be a challenge.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top places to buy metal mesh for cabinets based on factors like selection, price, quality, and service. We’ve researched all the best home improvement retailers, hardware stores, and specialty online shops to break down your options. Read on for our tips on finding the perfect metal mesh paneling to elevate your cabinetry.

Hardware and Home Improvement Stores

For convenient in-person shopping, hardware and home improvement stores often carry metal mesh paneling suitable for cabinets. While selection is somewhat limited, you can see and feel options in person rather than relying on product photos online. Here are some top national chains to check first:

Home Depot

With over 2,000 locations across North America, Home Depot is sure to have a store in your area. They offer a small selection of metal mesh products in the hardware section that can work well for cabinet panels. Some options include:

Stainless steel woven wire mesh sheets up to 2 x 5 feet
Aluminum perforated sheets in various hole sizes
Decorative woven brass, copper, or stainless sheets for accent pieces
Vinyl-coated wire mesh for increased durability

Home Depot also has a selection of metal screens and grilles that could be adapted for cabinets with some customization. Prices range from $10 to $50 for most products.

Lowe’s

Similar to Home Depot, Lowe’s is another home improvement giant with locations across the U.S. and Canada. Their hardware selection includes:

Aluminum perforated sheets in various sizes
Stainless steel wire mesh in 2 x 5 foot sheets
Galvanized steel insect mesh for budget-friendly options
Decorative metal sheets in vinyl, brass, and other finishes

Lowe’s also offers custom cutting services in store for mesh panels. Expect to pay $15 to $70 for standard metal mesh sheets.

Ace Hardware

With over 5,000 independently owned locations, Ace Hardware is worth checking for metal mesh supply. Selection varies by store based on the owners’ preferences, but many Ace stores carry:

Small aluminum mesh sheets for DIY projects
Stainless steel mesh rolls in various opening sizes
Decorative vinyl-coated or powder-coated metal mesh

Mesh prices at Ace Hardware tend to be comparable to the big box home stores, generally ranging from $10 to $50. Ask at your local store about special ordering larger sizes if needed.

True Value

True Value is another network of locally owned hardware stores throughout the U.S. Like with Ace Hardware, metal mesh availability will depend on what each individual store stocks. Some product options to look for include:

Aluminum perforated sheets in 1 x 2 foot sizes
PVC coated steel wire mesh for cost-effective durability
Decorative woven copper, brass, and galvanized steel mesh
Steel insect mesh for budget cabinet panels

Pricing is similar to other hardware stores, with small mesh sheets starting around $10. True Value stores can also special order larger custom sizes.

Online Specialty Retailers

For wider selections and larger sheet sizes, online specialty retailers for metal mesh often have superior options compared to hardware stores. Keep the following sites in mind for high-quality mesh for cabinets:

Woven Wire Supply

Woven Wire Supply offers an extensive inventory of metal mesh products, including many suitable for cabinet panels. They stock a vast range of opening sizes, mesh thicknesses, and materials like stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and galvanized steel. Highlights include:

Large 5 x 10 foot stainless steel sheet sizes
Custom fabrication services for made-to-order panels
Various wire diameter options from extra fine to heavy mesh
Mesh varieties like flattened expanded, twilled, and intercrimped

With discounts for bulk purchases, Woven Wire Supply is a top choice for convenient online ordering of quality metal mesh cabinet panels.

TWP, Inc.

TWP, Inc. specializes in providing perforated metals, including aluminum panels suitable for cabinets. Product options include:

Stock sheets up to 4 x 10 feet in .032″ aluminum
Hundreds of hole size and pattern choices
Powder coated colors and finishes available
Custom manufacturing services offered

TWP Inc ships most standard perforated aluminum panels within 48 hours. Their selection and prompt service make them a go-to resource.

McNichols

Operating since 1952, McNichols is one of the leading metal mesh suppliers in the U.S. They offer:

Huge selection of hole shapes and opening sizes
Stainless steel, aluminum, galvanized steel, and brass options
Powder coating and additional finishes available
Custom fabrication services

With competitive pricing and quick nationwide shipping, McNichols is a valuable source for cabinet mesh materials.

Marco Specialty Steel

Marco Specialty Steel provides an array of wire mesh products beyond typical woven sheets. Their specialty offerings like intercrimped panels and flattened expanded metal work beautifully for cabinet accents. Features include:

Unique styles like flattened expanded and intercrimped mesh
Hundreds of size variations and metal choices
Custom metal fabrication with fast delivery

While pricier than standard woven sheets, Marco’s specialty meshes give unique architectural flair to cabinets.

Buy Direct from Metal Mesh Manufacturers

Instead of retailers, buying directly from metal mesh manufacturers can sometimes save money while offering customization options. Two top manufacturers to buy from include:

Banker Wire

Banker Wire is one of the leading architectural woven wire mesh producers in the U.S. Their products lend an upscale look, with options like:

Custom weaving for unique patterns
Several metal choices including brass, stainless, and aluminum
Range of woven mesh openings and wire diameters
Excellent durability and aesthetic quality

Pricing is premium but competitive with retailers for custom architectural mesh.

Cambridge Architectural

Cambridge Architectural offers stunning woven stainless steel, brass, and bronze mesh for cabinets and screens. Benefits include:

Hundreds of standard patterns and custom weaving options
Optional Powdercoat colors and finishes
Quick fabrication and shipping services
Premium materials for unmatched quality

As an architectural mesh expert since 1956, Cambridge is unrivaled for stylish high-end cabinet panels.

What to Look for When Buying Metal Mesh for Cabinets

With so many metal mesh options for cabinetry, keep the following factors in mind when deciding on the right product:

Hole size – Smaller openings provide more privacy and security while larger holes allow increased visibility. Measure any glass panes or openings you’re replacing to help choose.
Material – Stainless steel offers maximum durability for high-traffic areas like kitchens. Aluminum is lightweight. Decorative meshes utilize brass, bronze, copper, and stainless for visual interest.
Coatings – Vinyl, PVC, or powder coated finishes protect metal mesh from wear, abrasion, and tarnishing. Colored coatings also allow custom looks.
Wire diameter – Thicker wire diameters are more durable while thinner gauges have a more delicate, sheer look.
Sheet size – Measure cabinet doors and faces to determine needed mesh sheet sizes or buy large sheets for custom fabrication.
Weave pattern – Tighter, flattened weaves have a less open appearance than standard square or diamond weaves. Twilled and intercrimped meshes offer unique visuals.
Weight – Consider how panels will be installed and supported. Heavier mesh requires sturdier mounting.
Price – Functional steel or aluminum meshes cost $15 to $50 for small sheets. Architectural woven meshes range from $50 to $200+ per panel.
Brand reputation – Established brands like Banker Wire and Marco Steel ensure the highest quality materials and consistency.

Installation Tips for Cabinet Mesh Panels

Once you’ve purchased the perfect metal mesh for your cabinets, proper installation is key to making them look seamless. Follow these tips:

Carefully measure cabinets to cut mesh panels to fit precisely. Leave at least 1/8″ extra mesh and trim after mounting.
Use sharp snips to trim mesh. Cut carefully and evenly along wire strands rather than cutting across wires.
File or sand any wire ends flush to avoid snags and scratches.
Attach panels using small wood screws, tapping them into wire intersections for stability. Use washers to prevent pull-through.
For glass panel replacements, secure trimmed mesh from inside the cabinet frame using window glazing strips.
Consider adding thin wood trim pieces around panel edges for a finished look.
Clean mesh gently using glass cleaner or mild soap and water to remove fingerprints and debris from installation.

With the right metal mesh sheets and proper mounting, it’s simple to add modern architectural flair to your cabinets affordably. Use this guide to find the perfect mesh material for your needs online or at local stores. Soon you’ll be enjoying the aesthetic appeal and functionality of metal mesh cabinet panels.

Where to Buy Metal Mesh for Cabinets: Frequently Asked Questions

What type of metal mesh is best for cabinets?

For cabinets, stainless steel provides the most durable and scratch-resistant option. Stainless has good strength while resisting corrosion. Architectural grade stainless steel woven mesh is recommended for long-lasting performance and safety.

Where can I find stainless steel mesh sheets for cabinets?

Many home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s sell small stainless steel mesh sheets in hardware sections. For wider selections of material gauges and sheet sizes, check online retailers like Woven Wire Supply, TWP Inc., McNichols, or Marco Specialty Steel.

Is galvanized steel mesh ok for cabinets?

Galvanized steel is budget-friendly but has a shorter lifespan than stainless or aluminum. It can develop rust over time. Galvanized mesh is fine for drier indoor uses like closed cabinet panels, not for direct weather exposure. Look for vinyl coatings on galvanized mesh for increased corrosion resistance.

What thickness of metal wire should I use?

For cabinets, 16 to 20 gauge stainless steel mesh provides ideal durability without being too heavy. Medium wire diameters around .03″ to .06″ diameter are recommended. Architectural mesh brands like Banker Wire use quality thicknesses suited for cabinetry.

How much does metal mesh cost for cabinets?

Metal mesh pricing depends on material, gauge, and sheet sizes. On average, expect costs of:

Stainless steel: $3 to $8 per sq. ft.
Aluminum: $2 to $6 per sq. ft.
Galvanized steel: $1 to $3 per sq. ft.
Architectural/decorative mesh: $8 to $20+ per sq. ft.

Always measure cabinet areas needing mesh when pricing materials. Buying larger sheets and cutting to size helps reduce costs.

What’s the easiest way to cut and install metal mesh sheets?

Use aviation snips to cut mesh cleanly along the wires rather than across. File any rough wire ends smooth. Position panels and attach with small wood screws into wire intersections. Consider adding trim strips around edges for clean results. Take care not to scratch or dent mesh when installing.

Can I use metal mesh cabinet inserts to replace glass panels?

Yes, with some modifications. Measure glass panel sizes and order custom-cut mesh. Remove existing glazing strips if possible. Place mesh inside the window frame, then reinstall glazing strips over the edge to hold the mesh securely in place of the glass.

Where to Buy Metal Mesh for Cabinets: Summary

Adding metal mesh panels is an easy DIY upgrade to make kitchens or bathrooms feel more modern and welcoming. The key is finding affordable and durable mesh material. Top options include stainless steel, aluminum, galvanized, or decorative brass mesh. Purchase mesh sheets at home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s or order from specialty online retailers for wider selections. For high-end designer looks, buy architectural woven mesh directly from manufacturers like Banker Wire or Cambridge Architectural. With proper measuring and installation, it’s simple to install metal mesh on cabinet doors and panels to get an upscale industrial vibe. Use this guide to find the perfect metal mesh product at the right price for your cabinet refresh project.