Coop almost complete...needing input on run please

[Kay56]

Hi...Our coop is almost finished (insulating, wall board, caulking, and some minor fixes left) but our run is giving us a fit because of the design the coop is . We TRIED to make the run to match the coop profile and it is just impossible....too many angles that could cause problems later on and also with applying the roofing. So... we decided to go with just a plain old box shape 12 x 5 run. Anyways, to the point here.....do we put some kind of roofing on top (corrugated metal or smoked clear corrugated panel) or just leave the top with hardware cloth. Will a plastic roof panel be too heavy come snow season?? If we use a roofing panel should we slant it slightly or will it be ok being flat ? Any input is appreciated....Thanks !

 

[Kjf18]

Our coop and run is about the size yours appears to be. We extended the roof over the run, and I'm really glad we did. It keeps the run dry from rain and snow, and provides shade from the sun. I definitely would include some pitch on a roof for drainage.

KJF

 

[CorinneP]

Just wanted to say I think your coop is Wonderful ! Very well done and oh so charming !

 

[Kay56]

Kjf18 ...thanks so much for the info. Do you have a picture to share of your run? I really would like the run completed this weekend (unless it rains again for the 5th weekend in a row)

I do wish my coop was bigger...will only house 4, MAYBE 5 comfortably.

CorinneP....thanks !

 

[crumptz]

Love your coop! I just finished mine. I couldn't match the run to the coop either. I strongly suggest a roof. Here is a picture of mine. The roof of the run is broken into 3 panels. The panels are all removable. They are just sitting on top but are heavy enough that they aren't going to shift off on their own. I might hinge them, but not yet. I like the way I did it because I can duck inside and lift one section only so I can stand up and clean inside. Hope this helps!

 

[2Old2Crow]

I don't think you have a problem at all. Make the run and give it a pitched roof. Put the people door at the far end. I hate having to squat, so make it tall enuff that you can walk in and rake up poop. Once it's up you can figure out that little seam between the run and the coop. BTW,,,Luv, I repeat, Luv the coop!!!

 

[2Old2Crow]

This is what I was talking about. This is a thread a little below urs.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/656918/its-my-coop-and-i-helped-pic-heavy

 

[Kay56]

Crumptz , thank you for the picture....your run idea is good for us.... Do you have any issues with rain draining off the flat roof?


2Old2Crow, thank you as well.....The thread you sent helps alot.....I have been following your posts and they are quite humorous....you have a really cool coop and the poop board is a gem.

I appreciate the help from both of you

Hopefully the run will be done this weekend!....fingers crossed.

Nope... not this weekend...rain, rain, rain

 

[crumptz]

Not sure what flat roof you are referring to. My coop has a sloped roof, the run is wire so rain just goes through it. I live in an area where it only rains in the winter -- but come winter, I will the run with a tarp... My plan is:
See how the run is attached to the wood fence? I will be putting in simple hooks into the fence about 2 feet up from the run. The tarp will hook onto those and I will pull the tarp over the top of the run. That way, the tarp will be at an angle and the rain will not pool on the floor of the run. When it's not raining, I'll just roll the tarp up. Simple, easy and cheap.

 

[Chick CJ]

I wanted to post this picture of my old run to show you how you could build one side slightly higher than the other in order to get the slant you need and still only use one sheet of corrugated roofing material. It was easier than having to deal with a roof cap at the top where two pieces meet and worked just fine. Good luck and I hope you will post pics of your run when you finish it!
CJ