Should I use 1/2" hardware cloth instead of chicken wire?

[birdy_num_nums]

I am trying to plan my coop to be completely predator-proof (is there really such a thing?) and am wondering what you all suggest for covering vents and windows- can I use regular chicken wire/poultry netting, or should I opt for hardware cloth? And if so, is 1/2" the best size to get?

Thank you so much for helping a newbie!

 

[arlee453]

1/2" hardware cloth is a lot sturdier than any hexagon weave chicken wire.

1/2" is small enough that a racoon or cat can't sneak a paw through, and would also deter any snakes large enough to eat chicks or eggs.

 

[Anny]

Yes go with the Hardware cloth. I think most of the people on here will agree. MUCH MUCH stronger and safer. Chicken wire holes are to big, and it's far to weak.

 

[BeckyLa]

Oh, yes, definitely.

 

[CarlaRiggs]

It depends on the gauge of the wire.... if the hardware cloth is an 18 or 19 then it will be sturdy. Some of the hardware cloth comes in a gauge strength of 22; very weak stuff!

The same can be said for chicken wire. I purchased 1" hexagon stucco wire with an 18 gauge strength. This is for their daytime run, so I don't particularly worry about raccoons reaching in for a chick through the wire.

Just check the gauge of the wire!

Carla

 

[Lea71]

TSC has 1/2 inch, 36" by 5 foot rolls of hardware cloth on clearance right now. I just picked up 10 rolls last night to finish my run. Saved about $3.50 per roll....just thought I'd let you know.

 

[Buff Hooligans]

Yes, for sure, definitely. Put all thoughts of chickenwire out of your dear head!

 

[bwhite28]

Definitely hardware cloth.

 

[MoonbeamQueen]

I submit another vote for the hardware cloth. I used chicken wire years ago when I first had chickens and the coons could just reach right in and pull them out. Many birds later we finally got smart and the hardware cloth is the way to go!

 

[shangri-lafarms]

YES!!!!!! 1/2" hardware cloth is the way to go.....That's how my coop is and I also have a cement floor with cement blocks stacked three high for the bottom of my coop, this is great for cleaning, and my run is outdoors. The hardware cloth really cuts down on minks and fox getting in....