need some advice on plumbing stuff for DIY bathroom fix-up

Galvanized mesh is always a headache in damp areas, learned that lesson the hard way too. Stainless steel is solid, but yeah, pricey. What I've done that's worked pretty well is aluminum mesh - it's cheaper than stainless, doesn't rust like galvanized, and pests hate chewing through it. Had it under kitchen cabinets in a couple rentals for years now, no rust or rodents so far.

Another thing you might try is plastic-coated hardware cloth. Not as tough as metal long-term, but if your main concern is smaller pests like mice or insects, it's surprisingly effective and super easy to clean. Quick wipe-down every now and then and you're good.

Honestly though, aluminum mesh has been my sweet spot between cost, durability, and low-maintenance. Worth giving it a shot if stainless steel feels overkill for the budget.

I've had decent luck with aluminum mesh too, but I gotta say, plastic-coated hardware cloth surprised me. Used it under a bathroom vanity in a basement remodel - figured it'd be temporary - but three years later, still holding up fine. It's not bulletproof, and I wouldn't trust it against anything bigger than a mouse, but for damp spaces where rust is a pain, it's honestly underrated. Quick wipe-down every couple months and you're set...beats spending a fortune on stainless steel.

- Plastic-coated hardware cloth, huh? Interesting choice...but honestly, I'd still be cautious.
- Seen it hold up okay in damp spots, sure, but rodents can surprise you - mice chew through crazier stuff than you'd think.
- Aluminum mesh has been decent for me too, but I usually lean toward galvanized hardware cloth. Bit pricier than plastic-coated, cheaper than stainless, and rust hasn't been a huge issue yet.
- Still, if it's working after three years, can't argue too much with results. Maybe I'll give it a shot next time I'm feeling brave (or cheap).

I've actually had decent luck with plastic-coated hardware cloth myself. Installed some about four years back around a basement vent area - mostly to keep out critters - and it's still holding strong. Admittedly, mice can be persistent little buggers, but if after three years you're still rodent-free, seems like you've found a solid solution. Might not be textbook-perfect, but hey...if it ain't broke, right?

Yeah, I've used plastic-coated hardware cloth too, and honestly, it's been pretty reliable. But just a heads-up - make sure you're checking it every now and then. I noticed mine started rusting slightly around the edges after a couple years, especially where moisture tends to build up. Nothing major yet, but I'm keeping an eye on it. Better safe than sorry, right? Still, for DIY stuff, it's a solid choice overall.