Attaching Hardware Cloth

[deegee68]

Hello fellow chickeneeres,

I am almost done with my new coop and I have a question in regards to attaching the hardware cloth. I reviewed many previous post here in regards to the poultry staple (basically galvanized U shaped nail) vs. washers and screws. While I totally understand how the staples are not too secure towards a predator trying to push the mesh in, here is my question.

If I attach the hardware cloth with staples and then screw in a 1x2 board over the top for aesthetic reason will this be good? I am thinking the screws used to attach the 1 x 2 will be a second layer of protection.

Thanks for the help in advance!

DeeGee68

 

[Silo]

Yeah that sounds like it will be very strong!

 

[deegee68]

Thanks Silo!

 

[Bryant Redhawk]

Using the staples to attach the mesh to the frame is actually a good idea when you are going to follow up with a batten board and screws. When you are attaching the batten board (aesthetic looks and security) you will want the screws to hit the holes in the hardware cloth so as to not break any of the wires. this is actually pretty easy to do by using a tape measure or ruler to mark where the holes in the mesh are located on the batten board.

This is the method I use. I build my framework, use my air stapler to attach and stretch the hardware cloth (mesh) to the frame. Measure and miter cut batten boards (I use 1" x 2" material) lay battens over the mesh and mark a line showing the center of a centered (or nearly centered) row of mesh holes next I eyeball the exact placement of each screw (I leave 6 holes between screws).

Using the line make sure I don't snap any of the wires and so keep the mesh as secure as possible. (I like 12 gauge hardware cloth since it is very sturdy)

By using the batten boards you also now have the option of laying on a second layer for even more protection from predators.

 

[JackE]

I used poultry staples every 8"s or so to attach the hardware cloth. Then nailed 1X4" pine over that, using 3" galvanized finishing nails, every 8"s or so. This was tested by the resident coons, I found their muddy 'hand prints' all around, and they never got in.

 

[tcstoehr]

Quote:
This is a tried and true method of securing hardware cloth. Just make sure the 1x2 board has plenty of fasteners. But... it isn't so much the fasteners that is securing the HC, but rather the pressure of the lumber strip itself along its entire length.