Welded wire mesh is made from a series of wires that are welded together at their intersections, creating a grid-like structure. The specification 36% typically refers to the percentage of open area relative to the entire surface area of the mesh. In this instance, 36% wire means that 36% of the mesh is open space, allowing for air, light, or liquid to pass through while maintaining structural integrity. This open area measurement is crucial for many applications, particularly in construction, agriculture, and industrial settings.