Quick question re HC gauges

[Ruralhideaway]

I'm sure a deep search would help but I need to finish up my fence order asap.

I'm going to be turning covered run into open air coop extension(closed in winter by clear roofing panels) so I need to fort Knox it up good.

Is there a minimum recommended gauge for hardware cloth? Half inch seems to usually be heavier but quarter inch would be better for rodents. I'm looking at between 18 and 23 gauge options.

Also for the new outdoor only run(unless I figure a way to build that roof myself). Do you think 2x3 mesh galvanized with HC on bottom 24" is adequate or should I just do HC throughout?

I have the usual northeast US predators with Fishers known in the area. Used to be some right across the street but haven't heard them lately. Thanks for the help!

 

[Ruralhideaway]

I guess the short question is what is the minimum recommended gauge for hardware cloth, and 1/4" vs 1/2".

 

[aart]

I'd go with 1/2"....adequate hole size and heavier gauge wire, 19ga vs 23 on the 1/4". It's not absolutely impervious, but pretty darn good if installed flat/taut and attached securely.

Might want to put heavier fencing down low against larger stronger predators.

 

[Ruralhideaway]

Thanks I'll stock up on the half then. Getting it now so I'm ready and can go back to roof consideration. I have heavy planks on one side to about 30 inches of what will be new coop space so that should be safe at the bottom.
I'll add some heavier wire to the new run bottom when I get that far. Spring I'm sure, snowed in good now here.
I'm thinking when I remove the plastic roofing panels I'm going to install them on a frame so I can just pop in a few screws to put them back up in the fall.

 

[blackdog043]

For the 1/2" hardware cloth, check Amazon and walmart.com, usually they have the best prices, but do fluctuate.

 

[aart]

Amazon 48" x 100' roll (or was it 2-50' rolls?) can't remember,
was the best deal I found.

 

[Ruralhideaway]

Amazon looks good. Surprisingly wayfair is competitive also. Didn't expect that. Stuff never seems to go on sale either I've noticed.

 

[blackdog043]

Stuff never seems to go on sale either I've noticed.

Nope it never does, but like I said in my other post, the prices can/will fluctuate. Just keep an eye on them.