Predator proofing and hardware cloth question

[linsybird]

I started enclosing the bottom of my porch to add to my chicken run. I’d like to attach it to the coop, so that they can go out there in the mornings before I let them out, or anytime we have to be away for too long.

So, I bought some 1/4in galvanized hardware cloth to use to predator proof it. I just started putting it up, and Ive been trying to figure out what to do about the bottom. It’s secured on the top and sides with screws, but there isn’t anything but dirt on the bottom. There is a small apron on the bottom of some inches, but I plan on extending the apron with another roll of hardware cloth. Can I just stake it in? I was also of thinking of running 2x2 wood along the bottom to help hold it down, but if I can get away without having the hassle of getting wood, that would be great.


My other question is about the hardware cloth itself. It rained last night, and I noticed one of my scrap pieces was starting to get black spots, like something rubbed off. Do I need to be worried about this?

I’ve only put up one panel so far, and after seeing the black spots, I’m worried about the quality of the hardware cloth.

 

[CountryFlock]

Hi linsy!

What I do to secure the bottom of wires is that I put yard staples through the wire at the bottom and staple them into the ground. (By stapling you just press them in) and then I put concrete garden blocks on top of the staples. It makes it so the wire is secure to the ground.

And also all the wire I’ve used hasn’t rusted outside. That includes 2”x4” horse fencing, 1” hex chicken wire, and 1/2” galvanized hardware cloth.

 

[linsybird]

Hi linsy!

What I do to secure the bottom of wires is that I put yard staples through the wire at the bottom and staple them into the ground. (By stapling you just press them in) and then I put concrete garden blocks on top of the staples. It makes it so the wire is secure to the ground.

And also all the wire I’ve used hasn’t rusted outside. That includes 2”x4” horse fencing, 1” hex chicken wire, and 1/2” galvanized hardware cloth.

Thanks! That’s probably what I’ll end up doing. I’m glad to hear I don’t need to buy a bunch of wood!

 

[aart]

I started enclosing the bottom of my porch to add to my chicken run.

Pics please?
Can you get under there if need be?

Good examples of anti-dig apron installation:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/wire-around-coop.1110498/#post-17093528
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/new-coop-project.1169916/page-2#post-18481208