Varmit proofing run and coop

[aart]

Aprons definitely better than mesh floor in run.
Good examples of anti-dig apron installation:
http://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1110498/wire-around-coop#post_17093528
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/new-coop-project.1169916/page-2#post-18481208

Definitely assess site for drainage before building.

 

[Charlenesmom]

The chickens should not be walking/scratching on the hardware cloth, your substrate should go on top of it. I think this is why many people opt not to do this, it involves moving a LOT more dirt than digging in the fence or adding a flat apron (no dirt work at all for that option).



I'm not quite sure. My gut reaction is at least six inches

 

[Charlenesmom]

No hardware cloth in run and have moved the run plan to a flat location. Have to cut down a few bushes, but it will be worth it.

 

[Charlenesmom]

Thank you for all of your input!

 

[aart]

No hardware cloth in run and have moved the run plan to a flat location. Have to cut down a few bushes, but it will be worth it.

No HC on the run floor, can be used in other places

If the bushes aren't tall enough to interfere with the run roof, leave them there.
They might provide some shade....of course they may destroy them by digging at the roots, but<shrugs>

 

[Charlenesmom]

The bushes are right in the footprint of where we need to build, but we have lots of woods and trees around. The run and coop will also be under a roof. Half metal, and half corregated plastic to allow plenty of sunlight and shade.
The back of the run faces south, we have plenty of sunlight.