Newbie with run questions

[MamaJ1977]

Hi all!

This is my very first post, and I’m so appreciative of any feedback. I’m trying to figure this out on my own here, I’m not very handy, and I want to do it right.

Having said that, I have four 3-week old chicks waiting for new digs and I’ve been kind of obsessing about it. I found a free dog/chicken run on Craigslist, and got it delivered, but boy does it need some work. It’s 19’L x 5’W x 7’H.

It’s put together pretty poorly, but it’s not like it’s going to blow away. I’m in Northern CA, in a rural area. Free ranging isn’t a possibility because of all the hawks constantly circling. Not sure about other predators as I’m relatively new to the area. We have a moderately annoying French bulldog.

I’m planning on adding some reinforcing boards along the top, as well as probably just the same fencing that’s on the run now, because that’s what is here. I do plan on attaching 1/4” hardware cloth along the perimeter, halfway up, creating a skirt. We rent so I can’t do anything permanent or much digging.

I stay at home with my kids, so I’ll be able to keep a decent eye on things. I do have a separate coop being built, it will be top notch and secure, but I’m trying to figure out how I’ll attach the two.

I apologize for the rambling and also how naive I’m sure I sound. I’ve been reading all the forums for a couple weeks now, and finally have the courage to post something. Thanks so much!!!

 

[lingon]

Since you can’t dig you might consider putting half of your hardware cloth up the fence but then also bend it and have it lie on top of the ground for things that might dig. That depends on your daytime predators.

Though it might be really annoying to have to mow where the grass comes up through the hardware cloth.

If you use zip ties to connect the hardware cloth to the existing fence in my experience they only last 1 to 2 years before they crack. Or you can buy galvanized wire and bend it around kind of like twist ties. That hasn’t failed yet for five years for me. Or maybe they make metal galvanized zip ties?

I find it nice to keep the wild bird population out of the run, especially if your food will be in there. So you might consider bird netting over the rest of the fence that doesn’t have hardware cloth on top of it.

Just some random thoughts.

Have fun!

 

[aart]

Welcome to BYC!
Good first post.

I'd cover the top with the same size mesh as sides...looks like 2x4.
Might want some shade cloth too, on top and west side.

Apron all around bottom and up sides a foot or two.
Good examples of apron installation, tho I'd not recommend 1/2" HC...go with 14ga 1x2 or 1x1, will hold up much longer and is easier to lay flat.
http://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1110498/wire-around-coop#post_17093528
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/new-coop-project.1169916/page-2#post-18481208

When you get pics of coop, post those too.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Free is good, and that looks like a pretty good base to work with. Since you mentioned the construction of it isn't the greatest, make sure to check connections between all the wood pieces to see if any reinforcement is needed.

I also agree with the suggestion of adding an apron that goes up around the bottom few feet for extra security, whether it's smaller opening welded wire or hardware cloth. You can use hog rings to attach it to your existing fencing and landscape staples to hold it down to the ground, as those will pull out readily when you're ready to move.

 

[MamaJ1977]

Ah! Such great suggestions. You all know your stuff. Thank you so much, definitely going with your tips.