Hardware cloth

[vintage]

I purchased 1/4 inch hardware cloth for my coop, planning on 1/2 inch for the run. Has anyone had issues with it and predators? I used it on my coop door, plan on it for soffits, nothing at ground level. I might be able to double it, if people have had predators tear through.

 

[THEChIcKeNwhisperer354]

Just don't use this. My dog tore right through it not to eat the chickens. To eat the bisucts the chickens were eating.

 

[Mamatomany123]

I purchased 1/4 inch hardware cloth for my coop, planning on 1/2 inch for the run. Has anyone had issues with it and predators? I used it on my coop door, plan on it for soffits, nothing at ground level. I might be able to double it, if people have had predators tear through.

Most times it should be ok but every once in a while you will hear about something getting through. I think main concern would be bigger predators such as bears, mountain lions, ect. A good rule I live by is making sure the run and coop are secure. If something happens to get into the run then I want them to have to work hard again to get into the coop.

 

[mowin]

My coop and run has withstood a few coons, fox and coyotes attempts at breaking in. I've got a HC apron that extends out 24" along the ground. It's served me well. I do believe the way its installed and fastened to the structure makes all the difference.

 

[mowin]

Key is to make sure the corners or edges are covered. I used screws with fender washers first, then covered the edges with 1x2's fastened with longer screws. My run is a hoop run, and I used metal zip ties and wire to fasten it to the cattle panels.
Simply using staples isn't good enough. A coon will pull them out.

 

[Alaskan]

I feel safest with a double layer.

So, layer of hardware cloth and a layer of a stouter wire, something that would stop a dog.

Adding more wood supports also helps strengthen the hardware cloth... or any fence.

If any predator can grab the fence with its teeth.. then the fence is easier to break. So, a nice taught fence, is always safer.

 

[vintage]

I used poultry staples but screwed 1x4s over it to frame it in (on my door).

 

[TheyLive]

I purchased 1/4 inch hardware cloth for my coop, planning on 1/2 inch for the run. Has anyone had issues with it and predators? I used it on my coop door, plan on it for soffits, nothing at ground level. I might be able to double it, if people have had predators tear through.

My husband put up 1/4 hardware (correction looked at the invoice it’s 1/2 inch) cloth with wood screws and large washers to anchor for out run. We adopted a very prey driven pit bull, who a few times (unbeknownst to us) tried to gain entry but so far it has held up. I’m not sure what gauge it is. Maybe ensure you get a heavier gauge?

 

[THEChIcKeNwhisperer354]

He had to have them homemade biscuits!

 

[Aunt Tat]

No need to use fender washers when installing the 1x2's. The longer screws will be sufficient. And yes, much easier than those fencing staples, lol

AND installing an apron is probably a lot easier than digging a trench.!