Do I need a wire top on my run if I use metal roofing?

[Redfurmama]

We're exploring different options when it comes to constructing a run for our future 10 hens. One plan is to use dog kennel panels that we have on hand, and the other is to build it with lumber.

One aspect we keep going back and forth on is this: do we need a wire top on our run if we will be using metal roofing on the entire run? Is it necessary to have hardware cloth underneath roofing panels?
**there will be NO gap between the top of the run and the roof panels and there will be a hardware cloth apron all around**

 

[HENS-and-MARES]

Depends on how you plan to attach it. If there is no gap between the roof piece and the top of the run, then there is no need.

 

[DobieLover]

We're exploring different options when it comes to constructing a run for our future 10 hens. One plan is to use dog kennel panels that we have on hand, and the other is to build it with lumber.

One aspect we keep going back and forth on is this: do we need a wire top on our run if we will be using metal roofing on the entire run? Is it necessary to have hardware cloth underneath roofing panels?

If you have a solid roof properly secured to the walls, you don't need HC under it. You don't want any gaps anywhere greater than 1/2" for the run to be really predator-proof.
A predator apron is also important.

 

[Redfurmama]

Depends on how you plan to attach it. If there is no gap between the roof piece and the top of the run, then there is no need.

No, there will be no gaps between the top of the run and the panels

 

[Redfurmama]

If you have a solid roof properly secured to the walls, you don't need HC under it. You don't want any gaps anywhere greater than 1/2" for the run to be really predator-proof.
A predator apron is also important.

No, there would not be any gaps and we will have an apron (buried down 12" and extending out 2' wide all around)