Stapling (attaching) hardware cloth

AlanMc · Apr 2, 2013

I am using 1/2" hardware cloth (wire) to pedator proof my coop. Trouble is...How do you attach it. I am/was using a staple gun to shoot 1/2" staples, but it doesn't shoot them in well on the plywood and I have to hammer each one. They end up maybe an 1/8" deep and folded over. Not very good I think.

How are you doing it???? Please learn me sumpin.

Ridgerunner · Apr 2, 2013

There are construction quality staple guns that would do OK, but it sure sounds like that’s not what you have.

Many people really like to use large washers and screws. You can also get large staples you drive in with a hammer, either ¾” or 1-1/4” staples.

I use strips of wood maybe 1/2” to ¾” thick and 1-1/2” wide (use a table saw to rip a 2x4) and screw that over the ends of the hardware cloth. I drill a pilot hole for the screw so I won’t split the wood and put the screws through an opening in the hardware cloth. If you tighten it down, it’s not going anywhere, plus you get the raw ends of the hardware cloth covered up.

smccuen · Apr 2, 2013

Here's how I attached mine after first stapling it in a few spots to hold it where I wanted it. These are 8 x 1 1/4 inch brass wood screws and small washers. The washers hold down the 1/2 inch hardware cloth well.

hvacman · Apr 2, 2013

I agree screws with washers! I like ridge runners idea with the wood strips! You could trim out the hardware cloth for a more finished look!!

smccuen · Apr 2, 2013

In this awkward area between the 4x4 and the brick I framed the hardware cloth - still attaching it using screws and washers

Ga Boy · Apr 2, 2013

I use roofing nails to hold wire. Than I add a wood strip of wood to cover and hold.

Jo Anne · Apr 2, 2013

Lath screws I was gonna use staples than the nice helpful hardware man suggested lath screws they are like a screw with w washer built in

JackE · Apr 3, 2013

I used the heavy staples you drive in with a hammer. Then, covered all the exposed edges with pine trim for a clean look.
Jack

Ridgerunner · Apr 3, 2013

JackE said:
I used the heavy staples you drive in with a hammer. Then, covered all the exposed edges with pine trim for a clean look.
Jack

Not only does that look good, but it covers the sharp edges and does not give a raccoon an edge of the wire to get a grip on and pull.

I use those big staples when I am fixing the wire to a post or something really heavy, but I tend to split the wood of it is not fairly heavy, plus if it flexes or is not pretty solid it’s hard to drive the staples.

I grew up building and repairing fences with those 1-1/4” staples to fence posts, but for building coops and runs, I find that screwing the strips of wood (lathing) on the wire saves my fingers and gives a more solid connection especially when the wood behind it is not real firm.

There are lots of different techniques and a lot of different situations. You just have to pick the one you can execute in your situation. I can’t argue with any of them because I’ve used most of them.

JackE · Apr 3, 2013

The staples I used were like 3/4" or so. Just enough to get through the siding and into the framing. I mashed my fingers a few times, till I saw somewhere the proper way to hammer staples. You don't hold them like a nail, you turn your hand palm up, and hold the staple between your middle and index fingers. That way makes driving staples a whole lot easier and pain free.
Jack

Stapling (attaching) hardware cloth

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