What size wire on brooder floor?

[ChickenLeg]

Ive always kept chicks in brooders with shavings, but due to an increase in chicks Im building a stacked brooder to better manage them.

Im probably gunna use 1/4" hardware cloth but has anyone used larger wire? Ive also considered using 1/4 on top few slots then a slightly larger wire on bottom once they are a few weeks old. I believe i read gqf brooders use 1/4", but has any1 used a larger wire, thanks

 

[ChickenCanoe]

I would go with 1/4". 3/8" isn't very common but I definitely wouldn't use 1/2".

 

[SegiDream]

I wouldn't go bigger, they're going to be walking on it right? Their little feet could slip through and could get injured... also not sure where the brooders are being kept but small mice can get through 1/2" or adults can get through something larger than that.

 

[ChickenLeg]

I wouldn't go bigger, they're going to be walking on it right? Their little feet could slip through and could get injured... also not sure where the brooders are being kept but small mice can get through 1/2" or adults can get through something larger than that.

Yes ive had mice get thru my metal cages, need to set traps out. Have ysll ever used a 1/4" x 1×2" i saw one in a photo someone had but didnt know if anyone has tried it? Reguardless ima go ahead and get 1/4" to use