Building new coop, found interesting idea.

[Knock Kneed Hen]

I have the apron but my neighbors have the wire floor. They haven't scratched down to the wire from what I've seen (I sometimes feed) but it's buried quite deep. Either method works, and if done right, both methods will keep predators out.

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

Do you think that 14 gauge welded wire with 2x4 openings would work for the apron or would hardware cloth be better?

2 X 4 works fine for an apron. Chain link would be even better. Hardware cloth would be expensive, and youre not trying to stop small animals anyway

I've never understood why many want to dig down deep to bury an apron.

It's a LOT of work, when an apron just a couple of inches below the surface has the same effect.

The deeper you bury your wire, the bigger the hole a predator will dig before he realizes he can't get in.

If you keep it near the surface, grass roots will intertwine with it to hold it in place​