Need advice on wire for A-frame coop

[LakehouseChicks]

Hello! We are in the process of building an A-frame coop which shamelessly copies cochin44's in this thread for basic design:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=128473&p=1

It is approximately 8 ft at the peak and 5 feet wide and will have an enclosed coop at one end. I am trying to determine whether I really need to cover all surfaces with hardware cloth or if I can use something like welded wire for some or all of it. Is that stupid? I know that I need the hardware cloth for coop windows/vents and for the bottom of the run area (maybe 3 feet from the ground?). Can I use sturdy wire with larger openings above that?

I am trying to keep costs down and suggestions are appreciated. Thanks!

 

[LynneP]

I suspect you will be happier with hardware cloth (1/2" mesh) because it will keep all important predators from reaching through. Rats in particular are a problem in larger mesh, and raccoons will shred a living chicken through anything large than 1/2". It's really worth the extra effort and $$$.

Some pics and thoughts here:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/web/viewblog.php?id=7693-seasonal-concerns

https://www.backyardchickens.com/web/viewblog.php?id=7693-ThinkWeasel

https://www.backyardchickens.com/web/viewblog.php?id=7693-Predation

 

[LakehouseChicks]

Thanks for those links and your suggestions, LynneP! I suspect you're probably right, unfortunately.