Pet/security window screen

I bought a new ARE CX canopy with the optional pet screens. After the first day my dog destroyed one side. So I made my own using expanded metal. It serves as a security guard also. I sealed all the windows at the same time as they both leaked.

 

That’s a great idea! I’d like to do my snug top like this.

 

Nice. Did you use aluminum or steel expanded metal? Are you going to paint them black or leave them.

 

Steel as I have a dog that can destroy most anything. I painted them silver to match the truck.

 

What is the guage of the expanded metal you used?
Thanks

 

.11 or 3/32”. If I were to do it again I’d use aluminum if I could find it.

 

Something wrong with the steel? I made the same screens for my topper out of steel and they're great so far.

 

Steel will rust and is probably overkill for most. I have to repaint mine occasionally.

 

Thank you for the info! As the thread is old I didn't expect such a speedy response. Prior to reading your reply I actually went yesterday to purchase here in vancouver a 4' x 8' sheet from dukes. Homedepot had small pieces, the biggest being 2' x 2', too small to use and costing more than the huge sheet I got at Dukes. I got 13 guage which I think is thinner than yours. The numbers they use confuse me! The sales person did tell me that steel rusts easily so now I am searching for what type of paint to prevent this.

 

I think I'd have turned the expanded metal the other direction to help avoid the dog getting their nail(s) caught in it. The ex's dogs just liked to shove their nose into mine but I can imagine some dogs may paw at it.

Gueita- I've had good luck with VHT Epoxy Paint; thoroughly degrease, apply and let cure. This stuff: https://www.vhtpaint.com/specialty/vht-epoxy-all-weather-paint
If you can't find that, the appliance paint that they sell in Lowe's/HD/etc was being used by people building AKs with good results (back when parts kits were cheap). Ex. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Rust-Ol...oxy-Gloss-Black-Spray-Paint-7886830/100141519

 

Bajatacoma - Thanks for the degrease and paint tip. I have one piece cut so far and was wondering about cleaning. It sure is messy stuff for the hands. I think I read clean with alcohol or mineral spirits. I will check out the paint types you suggest.