Designing a new coop and run for three additional hens

[rosemarythyme]

do you think the new rum needs a roof or could it just be chicken wire? I’m also considering construction sand for the run which will be elevated above the ground level to prevent flooding.

So roofing is up to you... is snow an issue where you live at all (probably not, but I won't assume)? If not, then a wire mesh or bird netting should be no issue for a run topper.

Is rain an issue? Since you mentioned flooding, if the area floods is it due to direct rains or is it an issue with the location being low lying? If the spot floods due to rainfall then a roof would help a bit, if it's moisture that wicks/flows in from surrounding area, then the roof won't make a difference.

 

[Cfholcomb]

So roofing is up to you... is snow an issue where you live at all (probably not, but I won't assume)? If not, then a wire mesh or bird netting should be no issue for a run topper.

Is rain an issue? Since you mentioned flooding, if the area floods is it due to direct rains or is it an issue with the location being low lying? If the spot floods due to rainfall then a roof would help a bit, if it's moisture that wicks/flows in from surrounding area, then the roof won't make a difference.

The flooding is because of poor drainage. The soil is clay. We don’t have to deal with snow.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Clay can be a real pain in the rear and I'm not really sure what to suggest to help with drainage (not sure if adding drains works on clay?)

So in that case, with the roof... really up to you. Adding a roof is more predator security and provides shade and protection from rain, but of course costs more. I think if you can roof it, that'd be for the best (kinda wish I'd roofed mine) but if it's a cost/labor issue, then any type of covering over the run is still better than none.

 

[aart]

The flooding is because of poor drainage. The soil is clay.

Is the site flat or sloped?
Even a slight slope can make trenching work...if end of slope is in a 'good' place.
Looks like you may not have so much space to work with tho.