Suggestions for my run

[andreanar]

How about posting some pics of what you actually have along with actually measured size of tubing, and how tubing sections are connected.
I will snap some photos tomorrow. I searched thru my phone and realized I've never taken photos of the run! Lots of chicken photos tho haha

I'm an engineer by nature and trade, if not degree. and yes, it earned me some good bucks over a 20 year career.

 

[andreanar]

@aart Here is what I'm dealing with right now. Think there is any way to keep this up in the winter?

 

[TalkALittle]

I am an engineer neither by nature, trade, or degree , but I don't think your tent will make it through winter. I fear that even with modifications you will lose it to wind or snow. Then you'll be stuck without shelter in the dead of winter.

I suggest looking into the hoop coop design for a run. The arch design is stronger, sheds snow easily and the wind blows right over.

Users report they are easy to construct and low cost. I've also seen them made using the frames of those temporary car shelters and clear plastic tarps.

 

[tigger19687]

Don't do it. Those ones are not built for True Winter.

I have a Carport that has made it for 3 Winters ONLY because I punch the roof snow off when there is only a couple inches. You should have seen me sweat when there was a Blizzard and I had to be at work. I lucked out that the Wind took most off of it but really you have to be on top of that.
Yours is a summer sun cover, mine is a Car carport. Very different tubing.

I think you will have to do something, not sure what, but something.

Don't feel bad, I am in the same boat. Not sure what to do about outsideness for the hens in the Winter

 

[andreanar]

Ugh, Ill have to take it down and figure out something else. Maybe a modified dog run.

 

[aart]

Yeah...not sturdy enough for snow load.
Best to save that for summer use than try to beef it up for winter.
Structure too wimpy to add wood/metal...and those press joints<shudder>.

Hoop coop with hog panels has held up here over winter....
.....cattle panels will need some bracing.

 

[User395221]

Maybe a modified dog run.

That's what my little girls' run is. It doesn't have a roof on it, but I think it could easily support one. You would have to remove the snow though, it wouldn't take huge weight, and you'd need to consider drainage for when it all melts. I am in a dry climate and we don't get really strong winds. You'd need to consider whether any roof needs tying down if it really blows. The hoop coop would be a good (relatively) worry-free option.