Adding run..

[Michelle1312]

So I was given this run from a friend. It obviously needs a few repairs but structurally it's great.. the wire on this seems large to me but will it work? Will I have to worry about things getting in? I can't wait to fix it up and let the girls out
Thanks!

 

[Melky]

I reccommend 1/2 inch hardware cloth. Chicken wire can work if there are no predators in your area, but it is often not strong enough to keep them out and the mesh holes are big enough for rats to get in or coons to reach in. HWC is more expensive but it's worth it imo

I also recommend hardware cloth 19g 1/2 inch as my chicken wire that came with coop has required frequent repairs. The wire wants to easily snap if any pressure on it. Will replace with this as it is the most recommended.

 

[Melky]

So I was given this run from a friend. It obviously needs a few repairs but structurally it's great.. the wire on this seems large to me but will it work? Will I have to worry about things getting in? I can't wait to fix it up and let the girls out
Thanks!

You can remove old wide wire and replace with 19g 1/2 inch Hardware cloth. TSC or hardware stores have this as well. Or just put the hardware cloth over with staples on the inside. Repair any wood or other structural problems as well.

 

[aart]

Wood is rotted at bottom in one place, should be replaced.
Not sure how the rest is.
You might want smaller mesh at least on bottom 2" of walls.
Hopefully the roof is water tight.
Could be fine for years with a bit of attention...or at least for a few years.

I don't like wire on run floor, but maybe it could be reused as an apron.
Good examples of anti-dig apron installation, tho I'd not recommend 1/2" HC (unless you have small rodents like rats)...go with 14ga 1x2 or 1x1, will hold up much longer and is easier to lay flat.
http://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1110498/wire-around-coop#post_17093528
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/new-coop-project.1169916/page-2#post-18481208

 

[Michelle1312]

Wood is rotted at bottom in one place, should be replaced.
Not sure how the rest is.
You might want smaller mesh at least on bottom 2" of walls.
Hopefully the roof is water tight.
Could be fine for years with a bit of attention...or at least for a few years.

I don't like wire on run floor, but maybe it could be reused as an apron.
Good examples of anti-dig apron installation, tho I'd not recommend 1/2" HC (unless you have small rodents like rats)...go with 14ga 1x2 or 1x1, will hold up much longer and is easier to lay flat.
http://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1110498/wire-around-coop#post_17093528
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/new-coop-project.1169916/page-2#post-18481208

Yes I plan to take up wire on floor, not sure why it's there. Few rotted pieces of wood I will replace. The roof is waterproof.. I will figure something out for apron possibly. I want expecting HWC to cost so much. When I started to plan everything I had assumed chicken wire would be good enough. So far the chicken wire under coop works well while they are out during the day.. but I worry when I move them to the bigger space they will be noticed more by possible predators.
This is all still new to me but they seem to be enjoying their new home.