Coop Windows Question

[jslater14]

We added these 2 windows on the front of the coop. It had mesh or whatever standing screen that comes with the window. The coop is pretty high off the ground. Do we still need to predator proof the windows?

 

[dvsmith]

Yes, you still need some sort of hardware cloth barrier.

Window screens are not strong enough and predators (such as snakes and raccoons) can climb.

 

[tlcmurphy]

We added these 2 windows on the front of the coop. It had mesh or whatever standing screen that comes with the window. The coop is pretty high off the ground. Do we still need to predator proof the windows?

Absolutely! Everything needs to be covered in hardware cloth, predators climb.
Everything climbs, and everything eats chicken.

 

[aart]

Yes, to adding 1/2" hardware cloth on outside of windows.

...and also roof overhang to protect from rain getting in thru windows. I assume you still have sheathing to put on that roof?

 

[jslater14]

Yes, to adding 1/2" hardware cloth on outside of windows.

...and also roof overhang to protect from rain getting in thru windows. I assume you still have sheathing to put on that roof?

We were just going to leave the roof as is? Their run is covered by a roof as well. Still need to add sheathing?

And how do we add hardware cloth over the window? Pic of an example?

 

[aart]

We were just going to leave the roof as is? Their run is covered by a roof as well. Still need to add sheathing?

And how do we add hardware cloth over the window? Pic of an example?

Ah, I missed the run roof at first....never mind.

 

[rosemarythyme]

And how do we add hardware cloth over the window? Pic of an example?

I used fender washers and screws. You could also sandwich trim wood over screwed or stapled wire mesh for extra security in lieu of the fender washers. Note that for extra security you should use more washers/screws than shown here (my coop fully sits inside the run so I didn't add as many, but you can see a lot more washers and screws around the base).

 

[avjudge]

And how do we add hardware cloth over the window? Pic of an example?

I made removable hardware cloth screens for several of my barn windows, including the one that lets into the chicken coop inside my barn. They are held on by a few screws (only three for mine but you could use more for security) so can be removed if necessary. I take one off each winter so I can run an extension cord into my aviary to power a heated water dish for my pigeons, so I just snapped a few pictures of that and of another in place before putting it back up for the summer.

I used super cheapo 1x2 and 1x3” furring strips for the lumber, simple butt joints at the corners but overlapped so the inner and outer layers support each other. On three sides the 1x3s overlap so they extend over the window frame, while the 1x2s sit inside the frame. On the bottom the inner & outer 1x2s are flush & sit on the window sill. But you could make all 4 sides flush and just mount the screen entirely to the outside of your window frame, then you don’t have to size it as precisely.

The other window in the aviary, with its screen in place. I use hex head screws because over time they don’t fill with crud and paint like Phillips or star so removal is easier.

Edit to add: during assembly I attach the hardware cloth to one side (inside or outside) with simple staple gun staples, then when the second layer is attached so the hardware cloth is sandwiched in between that anchors the hardware cloth firmly.