roofs on runs

[patandchickens]

Quote:
If it were me, I think I would build the structure of the run to ACCEPT roofing panels (i.e. built with suitably strong and suitably spaced rafters, and a reasonable pitch, and so forth), but for now just cover it with wire mesh. See how you like that.

If you find the run getting too muddy, or you want a wintertime roof, then you can think about slappin' some roofing panels on. However, under a tree you may find that things are just fine without, in which case solid roofing is likely to be just another aggravation (much more expensive and aggravating to fix than mesh is once a tree branch falls on it, for one thing

)

BTW, I doubt that a solid roof would deprive your hens of sun very much -- remember that most of the day, the sun slants in at an angle -- and if it *was* a concern you could use translucent or transparent roofing, which in a shaded situation in a run is not going to become a problem (don't do it for the coop though).

Good luck, have fun,

Pat

 

[common coop]

Here's a coupla pics of the wintercoop.

The girls stay out all winter and are happy as hens!


The first pic -- under the snow is clear corrugated panels - so that area gets full sun in the winter - and shaded by trees in the summer.

http://a6.vox.com/6a00e39897326b00020109d07c969e000e-pi


This area is covered by a gable roof. I put up a tarp on the north and west sides for windblock in the winter.

http://a3.vox.com/6a00e39897326b00020109811e9643000c-pi

 

[sherrydeanne]

Quote:
Wow, gorgeous!

 

[LynneP]

I'm a believer. It's all about how much you want to spend though, and whether you have the time and skills to create a roof. If you do, you'll be well-pleased at how much easier it is to manage your poultry!

 

[Penturner]

Just for general info. Make any run with a top of any kind strong enough for a snow load, even chicken wire will gather snow. I lost a $1000 macaw to the neighbors dog when the chain link top I had on the run collapsed. and that was with a 2X4 Frame. I could almost do chin ups on that frame work, but only almost. Now if I can't walk across the top of it, it ain't nearly strong enough.

 

[ellent]

Wow! This forum is so amazing! I'm so glad to have this resource as I am planning my first foray into backyard hens. Thanks especially for the beautiful winter pictures! I think I am leaning toward the roof. For one thing, I need to be really careful about tarps and such, because we just got our ordinance passed, and it specifically refers to appropriate appearance of coops. I live in a pretty nice suburban-type neighborhood, and I want to be a good ambassador for urban chickens!

 

[woodenart]

We make and sell a lot more covered Runs in the UK, mainly due to the wet weather

 

[ellent]

I can imagine! My in-laws live in Lancashire (I lived in Newport Pagnell for a few years), so I've experienced a bit of UK mud!

 

[Omran]

Above are few pictures of my Run, it is way better to cover it, that way you have a peace in mind, no worry about weatheor hawlks.
I hope you like my coop.

 

[dlolato]

I have metal siding roofs on all my runs and two clear panels amongst the solid panels which acts like a skylight. This provides plenty of natural light during the day and does not keep their run dark. The covered runs definitely allow the chickens to go out during inclement weather and keeps the run from getting muddy!