Inexpensive way to expand our run while maintaining safety?

[CandiceN]

This is what we currently have:

It's 4X8 and 2 feet tall. I'd like to expand it both up and out. But hardware cloth is expensive and we live in a wooded area so we need security.

Suggestions? I was thinking we could expand up using 2X4 welded wire and expand the footprint using the hardware cloth that is currently on top (we may need to buy a little more to supplement, but hopefully not much). Ideally, I'd like to end up with 50 sq feet on the ground and 6 feet high so we can walk in to clean it.

I'd appreciate any help you can offer. Thank you!

 

[Carols Clucks]

Personally, I would look on craigslist for free sections of hardware cloth and lumber and make panels out them to match what you already have. Then as you get more secure panels you can add them to what you already have.

I would not do a "two story" cause the hens really like the kicking and digging and not just floor space. You might do better adding a small pop door to each of the existing panels (with good locks) and then adding a 3 sided addition to one of the existing sides and rotate them once a week or month depending on the number of chickens you have.

They will enjoy the extra bug hunting room and cover.

 

[teach1rusl]

So that means you have 16 linear feet of 24inch hw cloth to add to the bottom extension??? That mean you could go as far as another 4 x 6 section of hw cloth. Of course you'd still have to get the 2x4 welded wire, and the 2x4 extensions for height. I agree that it's wonderful being able to walk into your run to clean and such.
Is your current run frame 2 x 4s???

 

[Gullygarden]

what about a solar charged electric mesh run? I have a picture on my byc page.

 

[Lil'ChickFarm]

I was wondering how people keep the lower height runs clean anyway. It would seem that the coop would need to be a tractor and moved all the time.

 

[zookeeper15133]

A 10' piece of PVC pipe, arched across a 4' span will give you another 4' of head room, so added onto your current 2' you will have 6' in the center and about 5' on the sides. Cover it with welded wire and use your current cover to lengthen your run.

 

[CandiceN]

Thank you for the ideas!!