How to choose bar grating
A practical guide to selecting bearing bar size, spacing, and surface finish for industrial walkways, drainage trenches, and heavy-duty load floors.
Bar dimensions
Calculate span length and load requirements for optimal bar depth.
Spacing patterns
Select bearing and cross bar centers for pedestrian or vehicle traffic.
Surface finishes
Compare serrated traction, plain smooth, and anti-corrosive coatings.
How to specify bar grating for your project
Follow these four core engineering criteria to ensure your grating panels match the required span, design load, environment, and installation method.
| Clear span | Pedestrian (50-100 psf) | Light vehicle / cart | Heavy vehicle (H-20) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24" (610 mm) | 1" x 3/16" (19-4) | 1-1/4" x 3/16" (19-4) | 1-1/2" x 1/4" (19-4) |
| 36" (914 mm) | 1-1/4" x 3/16" (19-4) | 1-1/2" x 3/16" (19-4) | 2" x 1/4" (19-4) |
| 48" (1219 mm) | 1-1/2" x 3/16" (19-4) | 2" x 3/16" (19-4) | 2-1/2" x 1/4" (19-4) |
| 60" (1524 mm) | 1-3/4" x 3/16" (19-4) | 2-1/2" x 3/16" (19-4) | 3" x 1/4" (19-4) |
| 72" (1829 mm) | 2" x 3/16" (19-4) | 3" x 1/4" (19-4) | 3-1/2" x 1/4" (19-4) |
Bearing bars must span from support to support. Cross bars provide lateral stability and spacing, but carry no primary structural load.
Standard spacing codes:
- 19-Space:1-3/16" on center (general industrial standard)
- 15-Space:15/16" on center (ADA compliance requirement)
- 11-Space:11/16" on center (close-mesh pedestrian safety)
Request a tailored load calculation or layout takeoff
Send us your architectural drawings, clear span dimensions, or specification schedules. Our technical team prepares detailed quote packages with panel cut sheets.
Find the right bar grating for your project
Review standard configurations, load tables, and custom fabrication options, or send your exact specifications for an immediate estimate.