Opinions on top of run

[wonderbeard711]

Hey guys,

I have gone back and forth on what to do with the top of this run. It's an 8x10 run, coop will be placed outside the run, attached to the rear or side wall about 3' up off the ground. You can see the run sits inside our chainlink fence that is 5' tall so predators from the ground are going to be minimal. I originally thought about just shingling it, but then I worry they won't get enough sunlight. I had then considered just running chicken wire over it. So let's hear some ideas or what some of you guys have done. Pictures attached.

 

[DobieLover]

I'd put a solid roof on it. They'll get plenty of light.
A solid roof will keep the run drier and allow them space to enjoy during rains. Shade will be important during the hot months.
Oh. And welcome to BYC!
Where are you located in the world? You can update your profile with that general information.

 

[wonderbeard711]

That may be what I do eventually. I worry about a muddy mess, so I guess solid roof it is. lol

I'm over in the foothills of NC. Hickory area.

 

[K0k0shka]

If you want both rain protection and light, you could use clear polycarbonate roofing panels - like these:

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Suntuf-26-in-x-6-ft-Polycarbonate-Roof-Panel-in-Clear-155030/206166246

That's what I'm planning on using for my run. I've seen lots of people use them and like them.

 

[wonderbeard711]

If you want both rain protection and light, you could use clear polycarbonate roofing panels - like these:

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Suntuf-26-in-x-6-ft-Polycarbonate-Roof-Panel-in-Clear-155030/206166246

That's what I'm planning on using for my run. I've seen lots of people use them and like them.

I had considered those too, but it would cost a fortune. More than I have in the entire run. lol

Also, Polycabonate doesn't do well long term in the sun. After a few years it will yellow and get brittle. 20 year glass guy here. lol

 

[wonderbeard711]

I know they have some UV protection in them, but I would hate to have to replace them after 5 years. I will research them some more.

 

[K0k0shka]

Also, Polycabonate doesn't do well long term in the sun. After a few years it will yellow and get brittle. 20 year glass guy here. lol

From the manufacturer’s website:

Suntuf has a lifetime warranty that covers light transmission for 25 years and hail & breakage for 15 years The actual life expectancy can be as much as 30 years +, depending on professional installation practice and environmental factors like air pollution, winds, and erosion by sand particles etc.

 

[wonderbeard711]

From the manufacturer’s website:

Suntuf has a lifetime warranty that covers light transmission for 25 years and hail & breakage for 15 years The actual life expectancy can be as much as 30 years +, depending on professional installation practice and environmental factors like air pollution, winds, and erosion by sand particles etc.

Yea I see it has a coating on one side. This may actually be the route I go with it.

 

[rosemarythyme]

I would go with a solid, durable roof (assuming you know how to shingle?) Don't worry about letting the light through. They'll get plenty of sunlight from the sides and chickens will do much better with cooler shade than hot sun in the summer.

 

[aart]

Agrees...solid roof for run.
Am confused which is run and which is coop and why they are not attached?