What Is Double Mesh Fencing? And When Your Club Needs It
"Double mesh" is the specification clubs hear about most in connection with FA ground grading — but the term is rarely explained clearly. This guide sets out exactly what double mesh fencing is, how it differs from single mesh and post-and-rail, why the FA requires it at the higher steps, and how to decide whether your club needs it now or later.
Double mesh fencing has welded mesh infill panels in both the upper and lower sections of every bay — between the top and middle rail, and between the middle and bottom rail. This creates a continuous barrier the ball cannot pass through or roll under, which is exactly what the FA requires at Steps 1–4. Single mesh has infill in one section only; post-and-rail has none.
The Three Infill Levels Explained
All three Pro Pitch systems share the same posts and rails — the difference is the infill between the rails.
| System | Infill | Ball containment | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double Mesh | Upper + lower panels | Full | FA Steps 1–4 |
| Single Mesh | One section | Partial | Steps 5–6 |
| Post & Rail | None | Demarcation only | Step 7 / training |
Why the FA Requires Double Mesh at Steps 1–4
The FA's Stadium Accreditation Criteria require that the pitch perimeter barrier at the higher steps prevents the ball passing through or under it. A single rail, or a barrier with a gap beneath the lowest rail, does not meet this — a ball can pass between rails or roll underneath onto a spectator area or out of play.
Double mesh closes both gaps. With welded panels top and bottom, the barrier is continuous from rail to rail and from the bottom rail to ground level. That is why double mesh is the standard specification at the vast majority of Step 1–4 grounds, and why ground grading assessments expect it.
The FA explicitly excludes hi-vis orange or yellow plastic multi-purpose fencing as infill at the graded steps. If your ground currently uses it, it will need replacing before inspection — this is one of the most common grading failures.
Should Your Club Install Double Mesh Now?
The case for fitting double mesh even below Step 4 comes down to one word: promotion. If your club has any ambition to climb, installing double mesh now means you never have to replace a compliant fence later.
Steps 1–4, or aiming for them
Install double mesh
Mandatory at these steps, and the safe choice for any club with promotion ambitions. The marginal extra cost over single mesh is far less than replacing a fence on promotion.
Double meshSettled at Steps 5–6
Single mesh may suffice
A single mesh barrier meets the permanent-barrier requirement, with infill in one section. Weigh it against your promotion plans.
Single mesh optionStep 7 / training pitches
Post & rail
Post & rail provides demarcation where full ball containment is not required.
Post & rail optionSpecify the Right Mesh for Your Step
From double mesh for graded grounds to post & rail for training pitches, the Pro Pitch system matches the exact requirement for your level. Supply only or fully installed — free quote within 24 hours with grant-ready specifications.
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