Run Cover

[Rein Quest]

I apologize because this questions probably been asked before.

What are your thoughts on roof vs netting or wire mesh to cover a run?

Part of me wants the shade for them in summer but also it’s Wisconsin and there’s snow load.

 

[Ridgerunner]

Snow and/or ice load can bring down netting or wire mesh too. Ever seen a freezing rain? You don't even need leaves from trees collecting up there to bring it down. In Wisconsin whatever you put up needs to be strong enough for snow and ice load or be ready to repair or replace.

I personally like a solid roof. They are generally predator-proof and if sloped properly can keep some rainwater out of the run. It depends on the orientation but I don't count on them much for shade. Rain, snow, and sunlight can come in from the sides.

 

[Rein Quest]

That’s a good point. I’ve seen ice load bring down power lines.

 

[jthornton]

Netting is great temporary cover in the summer and works well in the south where there is no snow and ice. Where you live a 6-12 pitch roof for winter with lots of over hang.

JT

 

[Shamo Hybrid]

Do those certain type of netting that provides shade enough for chickens without any sort of solid structure as a form of shade in the pen? Like say, I don't need to build any other shade area within the pen that is covered and surrounded by these shade nettings?

 

[Grits&Eggs]

Squirrels were my biggest enemy - with the netting roof, they would chew holes, blue jays got in....fixed it before the hawk could figure it out!! Then I switched to a solid roof and now I can leave them for the day without breaking into a cold sweat whenever I hear them squawk!

 

[rosemarythyme]

A solid roof is the best bet for heavy snow, otherwise, you need a netting/wire with holes large enough to allow snow to fall through. I get snow but not large amounts, so for me, 2" opening netting does fine in allowing the snow to cleanly fall through.

 

[aart]

I have 14g 2x4 mesh on run roof... and walls...and apron.
I put up shade cloths over mesh in summer as there are no trees nearby.

Most snow goes right thru, and it's pretty easy to toss snow thru the walls when I shovel in there...but...snow can collect on mesh and start to build up(freezing rain before snowfall and/or very wet snow), it damnnear collapsed my first winter(wish I had pics) so I have to keep an eye on it, keep it cleared off and put a few props up if heavy overnight snow is expected. Some folks on here have done OK with a good heavy duty fabric mesh netting and snow load, not sure I'd want to try it tho.

 

[Rein Quest]

Thanks for the feedback. I think I’ll shoot for the solid roof.

 

[aart]

Thanks for the feedback. I think I’ll shoot for the solid roof.

If you can, definitely do so....you'll be glad, and I'll be jeally.