hi

[Refolden]

Can I put Hardwire cloth on the bottom of my run to keep predators out?

 

[BantyChooks]

I don't see why you could not, that would be a great solution!

 

[Refolden]

I am hoping to to get the coop and run done soon then I post pic.

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[N F C]

Hi, welcome to BYC!

I wonder if the hardware cloth on the bottom would make it difficult to clean. Are you going to cover it with dirt or sand?

It would be nice to see your pictures.

Thanks for joining us!

 

[trailrider330]

Welcome to the BYC flock! We are glad you joined us!

You can certainly use hardware cloth on the bottom of your run (I am assuming you mean as the floor), but I would worry about cleaning your coop and I would also worry that your chickens could injure themselves by trying to scratch on the wire to get to the dirt underneath. This, in turn, could possibly lead to issues like bumblefoot. So, if you are going to use the hardware cloth, I would suggest covering it with a deep layer of dirt or sand.

Your other option would be to attach hardware cloth to the outside of your run and bury it 12-18" below ground. This is referred to as a "skirt" and is a great way to keep out predator that dig while leaving the bottom of your run free from wire.

 

[drumstick diva]

 

[NewHopePoultry]

from MO

 

[Michael OShay]

Welcome to BYC. Glad you decided to join our flock. You can definitely put hardware cloth across the bottom of your run. I've always had it on mine to keep predators from digging under, but I would recommend putting a layer of coarse sand or fine pea gravel over the hardware cloth. If you haven't done so already, definitely check out our Learning Center at https://www.backyardchickens.com/atype/1/Learning_Center. There is loads of useful information there. Please feel free to ask any questions you may have. We are here to help in any way we can. Good luck with your flock.

 

[ninjawesome]

Welcome to BYC! I think that would be just fine.