Draped Mesh Systems
Draped mesh systems control loose rockfall by capturing debris and guiding it downslope to a safe catchment area. Unlike pinned mesh, draped systems are not rigidly attached to the entire slope—allowing them to manage high volumes of material efficiently.
Understanding Draped Mesh Systems
Draped mesh systems control loose rockfall by capturing debris and guiding it downslope to a safe catchment area. Unlike pinned mesh, draped systems are not rigidly attached to the entire slope—allowing them to manage high volumes of material efficiently in steep, inaccessible terrain.
This passive containment approach is ideal for emergency rockfall mitigation and long-term protection of transportation corridors.
This technique is used in our services for:
Mesh & Barrier Systems 
Rock Scaling 
Rope Access Typical Applications
How It Works
Our proven methodology ensures consistent, high-quality results for every installation.
Top Anchor Installation
Anchor rows are drilled at the top of the slope to secure the mesh system.
Mesh Deployment
High-strength steel mesh is unrolled down the slope from crest to toe.
Edge Tensioning
Mesh is tensioned and secured with edge ropes and perimeter anchors.
Catchment Preparation
Falling rocks impact the mesh and are guided downslope into a ditch or berm.
Key Advantages
Rapid Deployment
Draped mesh can be installed quickly for emergency rockfall protection, often in days rather than weeks.
High-Volume Capacity
The draping design allows accumulated debris to travel to catchment areas, maintaining system effectiveness over time.
Minimal Drilling
Only top-of-slope anchors are required, reducing installation time and cost compared to pinned systems.
Steep Terrain Access
Rope-access installation techniques allow coverage of vertical and overhanging faces.
Low Maintenance
Periodic debris removal at the base maintains system capacity with minimal ongoing intervention.
Technical Considerations
Soil/Rock Conditions
Top anchors must reach competent rock or soil. Slope face conditions determine mesh type selection and edge anchoring requirements.
Groundwater
Drainage is unimpeded—mesh systems do not trap water. Weep drains may be integrated for slopes with seepage.
Load Capacity
Mesh strength rated by wire diameter and pattern. High-tensile systems handle larger block sizes and higher impact energies.
Spacing
Top anchor spacing depends on mesh weight, slope angle, and wind loading. Edge anchors secure perimeter and panel seams.
Installation Method
Mesh panels deployed from crest using cranes, helicopters, or rope-access crews. Panels laced together with high-strength clips.
Equipment Used
- Helicopter or crane for mesh deployment
- Rope-access rigging systems
- Drill rigs for anchor installation
- Seaming clips and lacing tools
- Edge rope tensioning equipment
Limitations
- Requires adequate catchment area at base
- Not suitable for areas requiring stabilization (containment only)
- Debris accumulation requires periodic removal
- High wind areas may require additional anchoring
Technical Specifications
System Variations
Hexagonal Wire Mesh
Double-twist galvanized mesh offering flexibility and durability for general rockfall containment.
Best For:
- General slope protection
- Moderate rockfall zones
- Vegetated slopes
High-Tensile Steel Mesh
TECCO-style high-strength mesh for larger blocks and higher-energy rockfall environments.
Best For:
- Large block containment
- High-energy zones
- Critical infrastructure protection
Wire Rope Perimeter Systems
Reinforced edge ropes and corner anchors for enhanced system durability in severe conditions.
Best For:
- Extreme weather exposure
- High-wind areas
- Long-term installations
Hybrid Draped + Pinned
Upper slope draped with selective pinning near critical areas or roadway proximity.
Best For:
- Mixed stability conditions
- Variable slope geometry
- Phased stabilization
Integration With Other Systems
Rock Scaling
Scaling removes immediate hazards before mesh installation, reducing impact loads on the system.
Learn More
Rockfall Barriers
Barriers at the base capture debris guided down by draped mesh, providing redundant protection.
Learn MoreCatchment Ditches
Engineered ditches collect debris at the slope toe, keeping roadways and infrastructure clear.
Pinned Mesh Systems
Pinned sections near critical zones provide active stabilization while draping handles upper slopes.
Learn MoreExample Project Types
- Highway corridor protection
- Railroad right-of-way stabilization
- Mining haul road protection
- Remote access road safety
- Canyon and cliff containment
- Post-wildfire slope protection
- Quarry highwall management
Our Work in Action
Why Choose Rock Supremacy for Draped Mesh
Rope-Access Experts
Our trained crews install mesh on vertical and overhanging faces where others cannot work.
Emergency Response
48-hour mobilization capability for urgent rockfall events threatening critical infrastructure.
Advanced Mesh Handling
Specialized rigging systems allow efficient deployment of heavy mesh panels in steep terrain.
DOT & Railroad Experience
Proven track record on state highway and Class I railroad projects throughout the western US.
Complete Solutions
We integrate scaling, anchoring, mesh installation, and catchment design for comprehensive protection.
Our Work
See how we've applied this technique and others to solve real-world geotechnical challenges.
US-89 Logan Canyon Rockfall Project
Comprehensive rockfall mitigation combining attenuator fences, draped mesh, and rock bolting along a scenic mountain corridor.
US-95 Riggins Emergency Response
Emergency rockfall mitigation along the Salmon River corridor following a major slide event that closed the highway.
Bingham Canyon Mine Support
Highwall stabilization in one of the world's largest open-pit mines to ensure safe ongoing extraction.
Draped Mesh Systems FAQ
Client Testimonials
Trusted by DOTs, engineering firms, and property owners nationwide.
Deploy Us
Ready to discuss your project? Our team is standing by to assess your site conditions and develop a custom solution using Draped Mesh Systems and other proven techniques.
Emergency (24/7)
(541) 383-7625Bidding & Estimates
Info@RockSupremacy.comHeadquarters
Licensed in CO, UT, WY, ID, MT, CA, WA, OR, TN, VA
Request Consultation
Related Techniques
Explore other engineering methods we use to deliver comprehensive geotechnical solutions.
Pinned Mesh Systems
Pinned mesh systems combine steel mesh with rock bolts or dowels to create a secure, reinforced slope surface. This containment system prevents loose blocks from detaching and provides long-term stability in both civil and mining applications.
Rock Scaling
Rock scaling removes loose, hazardous material from rock slopes to prevent rockfall before it occurs. Using rope-access crews, excavators, and specialized tools, scaling is often the first and most essential step in any rockfall mitigation program.
Rockfall Barriers & Fences
Engineered catch systems that intercept falling rock or debris before it reaches roadways, railways, or infrastructure. These high-energy systems absorb and dissipate impact energy safely through deformable components.
Wire Rope Netting
Wire rope netting provides high-strength surface stabilization for steep, fractured, or unstable rock slopes. Built from interwoven steel cables, this system offers exceptional durability and energy absorption—making it ideal for demanding rockfall environments.