building coop, do I need 1/2 inch hardware cloth all the way up?

[candr01]

Originally, I had hardware cloth underneath the whole run but I took it off. Chickens like to scratch in the dirt and I read that the wire tears up their feet when they try to scratch through it. So I took it off.

The tree roots in my yard were my reason for doing the apron. A 2' apron all around has worked well for us. I have since added pavers on top of the hardware cloth apron but that was for aesthetics and to stop the dirt/mud splashing up when it rained.

 

[Blooie]

I do. Most predators are going to start digging right at the perimeter of the run.....they don't understand that if they'd start a foot or so back they could get under. Instead they'll start digging right where they want to be. Don't forget to cut some pieces for the corners.

 

[kueblercoop]

Perfect. Thank you everyone for all your help! I have a plan, and my coop comes this weekend! Can't wait to let the chicks play in it a little!

 

[kueblercoop]

Originally, I had hardware cloth underneath the whole run but I took it off.  Chickens like to scratch in the dirt and I read that the wire tears up their feet when they try to scratch through it.  So I took it off.

The tree roots in my yard were my reason for doing the apron.  A 2' apron all around has worked well for us.  I have since added pavers on top of the hardware cloth apron but that was for aesthetics and to stop the dirt/mud splashing up when it rained.

 

[kueblercoop]

Originally, I had hardware cloth underneath the whole run but I took it off.  Chickens like to scratch in the dirt and I read that the wire tears up their feet when they try to scratch through it.  So I took it off.

The tree roots in my yard were my reason for doing the apron.  A 2' apron all around has worked well for us.  I have since added pavers on top of the hardware cloth apron but that was for aesthetics and to stop the dirt/mud splashing up when it rained.

Here is our finished product! I feel good about the protection.

 

[cavemanrich]

Looks good. What are you using on the ground. ? sand? or chips/shavings?

 

[kueblercoop]

I put down pine shavings, planning on trying deep litter. I would like the compost for the garden.