Ours is set up on a pulley so I don't have to go into the run to open/close. My hubby used a coated wire vs rope because he felt it would take more wear & tear. The door is about 8 inches above the floor so bedding doesn't get into the door track. The chicken door is set into one of the people doors to save space. The door sits into a lip so that the door can't be opened from the outside (think raccoon).