1/2" Wire Cloth and Snow Load

[Machineryqueen]

Has anyone built a run with 1/2" wire cloth for the top? I was curious as to how far apart the posts and beams should be to hold a large snow load of about 8 to 12 inches. I am in Ohio and we get large amounts of snow periodically. We are getting ready to build a very large run and would like some input. Any photos and your locations would be appreciated. We would prefer wire cloth versus a larger holed wire to prevent predator breeches.

 

[CapricornFarm]

Why not just cover the run with a sloping tin roof?

 

[chickens really]

I have a tarp also over the top..I use a long broom to push large amounts off the top if needed..

 

[lazy gardener]

Ain't gonna happen! I put welded 2 x 4 over the open section of my winter run. Most snow slides through, but a wet sticky snow still needs to be knocked off, and an ice storm adds a lot of weight. The green house tarp is over a section that has trusses to support it. Even with it being quite a steep slope, the tarp stretches, and has a hammock effect. So, I have to go out during every storm and knock the snow off the tarp. In a heavy storm, I may even need to go out in the middle of the night to prevent a collapse disaster.

I agree, if it is in the budget, and you can build an appropriate support system, a metal roof, with steep slope over at least part of the run is well worth it.

 

[Machineryqueen]

This is what we have so far. It is being constructed with 4x4 posts every 8' at the perimeter. Then a 4x4 post will be put in a row across the middle every 8'. So for an 8' square area there will be four 4x4 posts. The perimeter will have 2x6 boards at the base with a wire apron. There will also be two 2x4 boards between the perimeter boards and one board at the top of the interior 4x4 posts for support and to utilize as a way to attach the wire cloth. We did not want to put a metal roof on as the area will be a minimum of 40' x 32' and may expand further next spring. We already have a coop and it has an attached 8' x 8' run with a metal roof. We are trying to create a more free range type of environment with protection from predators. I have taken some photos of what we have started thus far. It is only two sides of the perimeter. It would be impossible for us to rake the snow off of this large area, so would with 1/2 wire cloth work with our support system or do we need a more open wire like a 2x4 to let the snow thru? I appreciate all the comments thus far!

 

[CapricornFarm]

I would go with the welded wire. That is what i use where i don't use metal panels.

 

[lazy gardener]

The 1/2" hdw cloth won't work. Try it if you want. But IMO, you'll be glad you went with the welded 2 x 4.

 

[Machineryqueen]

I would go with the welded wire. That is what i use where i don't use metal panels.

Thank-You. Is yours the 2' x 4" wire?

 

[Machineryqueen]

The 1/2" hdw cloth won't work. Try it if you want. But IMO, you'll be glad you went with the welded 2 x 4.

Thanks! It will probably save me a lot of problems. Just concerned about predators getting thru. But, I think only a weasel, rat or snake could make it thru the 2" x 4" wire. I am going to see what other sizes of the wire are available.

 

[CapricornFarm]

Thank-You. Is yours the 2' x 4" wire?

Yes.