Question about hardware cloth

[Joe.G]

I used 1/4 Inch hard ware Cloth on the floor of my Raised rabbit hutch ( Plywood in there enclosed part ) I then used 1/2 x 1 " for the windows ( I also have screens and glass that I can close ) and I used the same wire for the bottom of the coop, I have a raised coop and have a tiny run underneath for bad weather days or when i wont be around. The 1/4 Hardware cloth is very hard to see though and is not very strong, but is easier to work with.

 

[buckabucka]

Well, we ordered the 1/4". I hope it will be strong enough. We have not had predator problems here yet, but we know they are out there!

 

[cladano]

Is there a noticeable difference in weight and how workable they are between the hardware cloths? Only ask because it may be a factor in my chicken tractor.

 

[buckabucka]

The 1/2" definitely feels stiffer, thicker wire (but bigger holes). I'm not sure if one is easier to work with, but it does seem like the 1/4" would be more flexible.

 

[Mimi in CA]

THANK YOU! I just wanted to know which was heavier, 19 gauge or 23 gauge, and your response answered my question perfectly and simply. I went through four other sites after a Google search trying to find this simple answer. I typically prefer the KISS method (Keep It Simple, Stupid) so I appreciate your brevity. Cheers! -Mimi

 

[sebloc]

Hello
Not that this is important, but do you have any suggestions for cutting the cloth? Every time I do I end up with tons of scratches and blood all down my hands and wrist. (we use wire cutters)
Thanks

 

[Joe.G]

Tin snips, and be careful is all i can tell you, I have no issues cutting it.

 

[sandrama2016]

Cut with elec.snips,works really well.

 

[FlyWheel]

I would think that anything that can squeeze it's way through a 1/2" hole is less likely to be a threat to the chickens as much as a treat for them!

As for reducing the cuts, what I do is after cutting the cloth is to grind the 'nibs' off the edge with my belt sander.

 

[ellenscoop]

Oh raccoons are the worst!! I had the same problem and found excellent information about keeping them out on PoultryDVM.com - here is a link to their Poultry Predator - Raccoon page - http://www.poultrydvm.com/predator/raccoon

I have done well (fingers crossed) using 1/2 inch 19 gauge hardware cloth. The problem I found with going smaller than that is that although it is smaller it breaks easier and is not as stiff.

The best way to keep rodents out is to make sure not to leave any spilled or left over feed in the outdoor enclosure at night. Throw away anything that is left. Rodents can also dig underneath anyways, so unless you line the entire bottom with hardware cloth they are going to get in unless you utilize alternative management methods to discourage them from appearing in the first place.

Good luck!