In terms of size and spacing, what is a standard practice for welded wire reinforcement placement?

The standard practice for welded wire reinforcement placement emphasizes close spacing for maximum strength. This is crucial because the primary purpose of using welded wire reinforcement is to enhance the structural integrity of concrete by providing tensile strength. Close spacing allows for better load distribution and minimizes the risk of cracking in the concrete, as the reinforcement effectively holds the concrete together under tension.

In reinforced concrete applications, achieving the optimal balance between spacing and the grade of the reinforcement is essential to meet strength requirements and performance criteria specific to the project. This helps ensure that the reinforcement is adequately embedded within the concrete and can function as intended under various loads and conditions.

The other options do not align with best practices in construction. Large gaps in the reinforcement would compromise the effectiveness of the wire in controlling cracking, while irregular spacing could lead to weak points in the structure. Additionally, relying solely on single-layer placement may not provide sufficient reinforcement for thicker sections of concrete where multi-layer arrangements are often necessary to achieve the desired strength and stability.