Chicken Run Covers

[geepers6]

I have a 15 by 30 foot chain link chicken run. We live in the northeast and get some pretty nasty windy storms as we are high up. I was wondering what would make the most sense for protecting my 6 hens during the winter. I think some of the top should have a tarp of some kind. I was wondering if anyone has photos of their solutions. I also wonder if we should put some tarps on some of the sides. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[Chicks Galore3]

I just have wire on the top - large enough so the snow can get through. Last year I had chicken wire on the top, but the snow couldn't filter through enough and made the roof collapse, so now I have 2x4 mesh. I am going to wrap the sides of the run is clear plastic. You could look around at your local hardware store for some, it isn't that expensive. Or, go to the dollar store and look for clear shower curtains. It'll keep the wind off the chickens just the same!

 

[The Farm]

How do you put ???

Sample
54 peafowl
199 turtles
12 chickens
and so on
at the bottom of your pages???

 

[4 the Birds]

Ideally a solid roof and one high enough so that you don't have to hunker down works best. This will provide shade in the Summer and keep out most rain and snow (unless it drifts in like the picture below). I have used heavy duty tarps over various kennels over the years and they just don't last. Even they mildew resistant ones often times get mildew. Corrugated metal is terrific but costly so I just use exterior bead board as a roof cover. At 15' wide you may be able to run 4x8 sheets off each side with a slight slope. If you do choose to go the tarp route then be sure to cut drain holes here and there to drain rain pockets and melting snow. Blocking the upwind sides of the run is a good idea to block winds and drifting snow.

15 ft wide run with 4x8 sheets over top.


Heavy duty tarps over dog runs. Slits are cut in the tarp for drainage.

 

[res]

A simple sloped metal roof would not be hard to construct for that size run. It would cost a bit, but would last a lifetime.... Here is my covered run - measures 12x20. I recently covered the open vertical sides with shower curtains and tarps to block the wind. It makes it very cozy in there.

 

[jetdog]

Here in the north east also, I used 12ft corrugated clear suntuff roofing from home depot, best thing I ever did keeps the run dry and I wrap the run with clear shower curtains this keeps the snow out and lets sunshine in.

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

How do you put ???

Sample
54 peafowl
199 turtles
12 chickens
and so on
at the bottom of your pages???

Go to "My Profile" and click on "Edit Signature"

 

[geepers6]

Thank you all for the suggestions and photos. I had never thought of shower curtains to let the sun in. I have no building skills myself but I think can get some help with a roof structure. It will really help in the summer as well.

 

[geepers6]

Thanks. Also how did you attach that fine wire to your chain link? Is it fanned out or buried? I have so much to learn!

 

[geepers6]

Question for Jetdog.