What is the recommended spacing for wire reinforcement in preparation for a shotcrete application?

The recommended spacing for wire reinforcement in preparation for a shotcrete application is typically 4 inches. This spacing helps ensure that the shotcrete achieves adequate structural integrity and support, as the wire reinforcement provides tensile strength to resist cracking and deformation. Proper spacing is critical in allowing the shotcrete to adhere effectively to the reinforcement and in distributing loads evenly throughout the structure.

The use of 4-inch spacing strikes a balance between providing sufficient reinforcement and maintaining ease of application. Closer spacing could lead to an unnecessary increase in material costs and complexity during installation, while wider spacing might compromise the structural performance of the shotcrete. Thus, 4 inches is the standard practice that aligns with industry guidelines to optimize both structural robustness and efficiency during the construction process.