anti-predator apron for hoop coop

[TwoShepherds]

So I'm building a 2nd coop. I'm attempting a hoop coop because I have limited carpentry-skills and tools. Nothing is square, level, or centered, which drives me a bit crazy, but it is what it is. With YouTube as my teacher, this is probably the best I can do. lol.

On my next days off, I need to put up the run and make the anti-dig apron. There are a few other things I'd like to do. I'm worried that the coop is too open, so I'll probably have to cover up some of the front/back before the winter. And next year (or whenever the tarp gives out) I'd like to put on a permanent metal or plastic roof with an overhang, but I think as soon as I get the apron on, I can put the chicks in. Which brings me to my question:

How wide should the hardware cloth anti-predator apron be? 1 ft? 2 ft? Wider?

Should I cover the hardware cloth with mulch or let the grass grow up through it? I'm leaning toward letting the grass grow through it...but I have a stupid question. Are you able to mow over the hardware cloth if it is staked down?

Thanks in advance for feedback and for taking the time to look over my post.

 

[Krugerrand]

How wide should the hardware cloth anti-predator apron be? 1 ft? 2 ft? Wider?

Should I cover the hardware cloth with mulch or let the grass grow up through it? I'm leaning toward letting the grass grow through it...but I have a stupid question. Are you able to mow over the hardware cloth if it is staked down?

usually the recommendation around here is 18" - 2 feet.

Let the grass grow through it. If it's staked down well, it will present no problems for the lawn mower.

Mulch is okay, if you prefer that look. Don't do rocks or pavers as that would encourage predators to start digging before the apron.

 

[TwoShepherds]

usually the recommendation around here is 18" - 2 feet.

Let the grass grow through it. If it's staked down well, it will present no problems for the lawn mower.

Mulch is okay, if you prefer that look. Don't do rocks or pavers as that would encourage predators to start digging before the apron.

Thanks for replying. I was all set to screw on the hardware cloth and let the grass grow up but started to worry that it would get tangled up in the mower. Glad to hear that we'll still be able to mow around it.

 

[Penpal]

Looks like you did a good job.
When the chicks get big you'll need to turn that 2 x 4 so they stand on the wide part. Depending on your climate, the hoop house may be fine in the winter as they would be out of the wind.

 

[TwoShepherds]

Looks like you did a good job.
When the chicks get big you'll need to turn that 2 x 4 so they stand on the wide part. Depending on your climate, the hoop house may be fine in the winter as they would be out of the wind.

Thanks! I can turn the roosting bar over easily enough if that is better, just a matter of taking out a few screws. We have relatively mild winters here in Tennessee, but we do get lots of wind and rain. I'm a bit worried about rain blowing in from the ends, but if that happens, I'll try to figure something out before it gets cold.

 

[rosemarythyme]

2' if you have the budget for it, but I wouldn't go any narrower than 16, 18" or so.

With the grass you have there, I'd just let the grass grow back over it. It'll help anchor the apron flat on the ground as well. I have no issues mowing over it even on a low setting, as the apron should sit very flat on the ground if you install it properly.

 

[aart]

Before adding the HC apron, mow the area down as low as possible...like scalp it.

 

[TwoShepherds]

2' if you have the budget for it, but I wouldn't go any narrower than 16, 18" or so.

With the grass you have there, I'd just let the grass grow back over it. It'll help anchor the apron flat on the ground as well. I have no issues mowing over it even on a low setting, as the apron should sit very flat on the ground if you install it properly.

Thanks! I have enough left over on the roll I should be able to do 2 ft. It’s good to know you haven’t had any problems mowing over yours. I have created some odd spaces on my property that are difficult to mow—want to try to avoid creating any more.

Before adding the HC apron, mow the area down as low as possible...like scalp it.

Thanks! Good thought!

 

[perkolator]

Like aart said, I would scalp the grass before putting down the apron - like with a string trimmer or a shovel. Then use landscape fabric staples or other stakes to anchor it down. As long as you don't bend up an edge, it will be good to go for future mowing once the grass grows through it. HC can come in a 24" width so you don't need to cut anything; I used 36" and just ripped it with an angle grinder to 18".

 

[Krugerrand]

and ... be sure landscape staples are galvanized. (or stainless, but those are pricey)