Run Roof

[jeridge]

I'm going to build a 8x20 run (8'high) and am considering either wire fencing or hardware cloth for the roof with a tarp for shade, but I'm concerned about the occasional snow/ice storm. Any suggestion? Thank you

 

[Gargoyle]

What are the sides/struts of the run made of? How much will they support? Can you run 8' long 2x3's across to support the roof?

 

[jeridge]

Based on pics and research, I'm planning to make a wooden frame (anchored to the ground somehow--I can't physically dig holes for the fence post) from treated 2x4's and attach wire (not chicken wire) around the sides, top, and floor. Part of the run will be shaded with the tarp; all shaded in hot weather. I don't know about the weight load; that's my concern with the snow/ice. I can't invest money in the run only to have the snow/ice pull it all down. Due to the wind, I'll have to anchor the tarp down, too.

 

[chfite]

If you live where snow is a regular occurrence, then you will have to build a code compliant roof to carry the load of all the snow. A tarp suspended from a steep tent-like structure might work, but a tent is a tent.

I just let precipitation fall where it may. I think a roof over a run as overkill.

If we have snow here, it rarely lasts for more than a few days. The chickens can tough it out or stay in the coop for that long. In any event, the snow or rain does not fall under the coop. They can hang out there.

Chris

 

[jeridge]

That is true, thanks!

 

[flewdacoop]

i dont have to deal with snow as yall have to but alot with heat and shade is a big key either way i used wood with a metal roof and it helps because when it gets hot i can just put water on it and it will drop like 10 degrees.

 

[Ashdoes]

We have hardware cloth for our run roof, since we needed it fully enclosed. In two spots I have shade cloth, which you can buy as a small roll or by the foot at Lowes. Our run has six posts cemented into the ground, and the roof panels are attached to those. I know the hardware cloth will hold against the snow, we're pretty sure the shade cloth won't. I'm planting lots of vines around and in the run, so eventually it'll be shaded without the cloth.

 

[flewdacoop]

sounds good just the delima till then i would buy one of those 10x20x8 1/2 feet metal pop up canopys and use it for shade till then and that would keep them in the shade but will still only hold up in the snow for so long but may work till then