Hardware cloth

[Sbr73]

I have a 4x6 henhouse with an 8x8 run. I am using 1/4 inch, 19 gauge hardware cloth. What size screws and washers should I use and do I screw it to the inside or outside of the run and coop? Also, my run is placed in my backyard on concrete block and it’s just normal grass, weeds and dirt right now. Do I need to add anything inside the run? For example, sand, pine shavings, etc.? Any suggestions are greatly appreciated. Pictures for reference.

 

[aart]

I am using 1/4 inch, 19 gauge hardware cloth.

1/4" or 1/2"?
1/4" is usually 23ga,
1/2" is usually 19ga.

 

[Auntiejessi3]

On mine the hardware cloth is on the outside, washers big enough so they can't be finagled through the squares then 1x2 trim on top(my husband takes everything to the extreme, lol) I'd leave the run until they deplete it of all the grass then choose one of the many options from there

 

[Sbr73]

1/4" or 1/2"?
1/4" is usually 23ga,
1/2" is usually 19ga.

My apologies. It is 1/2 inch. I thought I ordered 1/4. Hope 1/2 inch is sufficient.

 

[3KillerBs]

I used fender washers for my brooder conversion -- on the recommendation of knowledgeable people here. You can see what I did here: https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/run-to-outdoor-brooder-conversion.76634/

 

[aart]

Hope 1/2 inch is sufficient.

It should keep everything out but very small mice and snakes.

 

[blackdog043]

1/2 inch hwc will work good!

After the grass is about gone, which won't take to long, get some natural wood chips(tree trimming chips) or undyed mulch. Make it 2 - 4 inches deep, as it breaks down or starts to give off odor, add more to it. You can also add some yard/garden waste, pine needles, leaves... make it like a forest floor, but mainly wood chips. You should not have bad odors and it should not draw many flies, if kept refreshed as needed. The poop breaks down and blends into the mulch. This also gives the chickens something to scratch in and maybe find a bug or two.