Run Design

[Chickidee26]

I have this starter coop from TSC....the coop will do for now but the run is entirely too small and overall quality is less than desirable. So I would like to build a run around the exterior of the entire coop to add a layer of protection from foot predators and increase the area the chicks can range. We currently have 5 chicks. I was thinking of an 8x10 run that is 6 feet high so we can easily walk inside.

I'm just looking for thoughts on using pallet wood to make the framing of the run (corners and middle posts, etc) and attaching hardware cloth all the way around? I also would like to have the hardware cloth over the top for protection. I just cannot build down into the ground where I live because of all the rock so would this be safe enough for them? I do plan on running the hardware cloth as a curtain all the way around to keep any animals from digging their way in (somehow they find a way to dig even though we cannot).

Our initial thoughts were to buy a 10x10 dog pen and just cover the top....but they can be quite expensive. No one in my area has any that they are looking to get rid of or sell on CL or FB marketplace. Sure would be easier but I am trying to work with what limited resources I have.

 

[pintail_drake2004]

From my experience, pallets break down rather quickly when not treated. pressure treated lumber would do better, especially when in contact with the ground.

 

[aart]

I was thinking of an 8x10 run that is 6 feet high so we can easily walk inside.

Sounds good!

I'm just looking for thoughts on using pallet wood to make the framing of the run (corners and middle posts, etc) and attaching hardware cloth all the way around?

You're going to want solid framing to hold up a solid roof for the snow load.
The run will be nigh on to useless space without some snow protection.

I just cannot build down into the ground where I live because of all the rock so would this be safe enough for them?

You can do anti-dig aprons on top of ground
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