1/4" or 1/2" hardware cloth for chicken run?

[FenDruadin]

For quail I always use 1/4" because raccoons will grab a little leg and eat it straight off the quail. But is this necessary for chicken runs? Can I use 1/2"? It's SO much easier to work with... Thank you!

 

[igorsMistress]

Yes 1/2" is fine for chickens. It is far easier and less expensive!

 

[FenDruadin]

EXCELLENT! Yes, so much cheaper and SO much easier. Cutting 1/4" is a pain in my ... bum. I appreciate it!

 

[Wee Farmer Sarah]

I would recommend 1/2 inch HC. The 1/4 inch is a weaker grade and is not all that sturdy. The 1/2 inch can come in didn't gauges. The lower the number the stronger the wire. The 23 gauge wire is easily torn and will not keep out larger predators such as a large raccoon or dog. Going with 19 or 15 gauge 1/2 inch HC is more reliable and will last longer.

 

[FenDruadin]

Thank you! I'm lucky not to have had trouble with large predators around here. I've used the 1/4" successfully for quail for many years. But I'm relieved to switch to 1/2" for my chickens!

 

[Folly's place]

We added 2"x 4" woven wire over the lower 4' of our run area in addition to the hardware cloth, because we worry about large dogs, who might show up anywhere.
Mary