when installing hardware cloth, on which side is the better way to install?

[newowner001]

I am building a chicken coop. There are some opening spaces for ventilation. Hardware cloth will be installed in these areas. I should install them on the exterior side or interior side of the frame? The predator is stronger on pulling or pushing?

 

[Aunt Tat]

I would install on the exterior of the frame, using screws & fender washers THEN cover those up with 1x4 trim and paint/stain the same color as the coop's body. I figure "why draw attention to it with a contrasting trim?"

But I've been told I "overthink" things.

 

[U_Stormcrow]

Outside. Predators tend to push or rake. Which is why its recommended that doors in bear country open outwards. Screws and fender washers, not staples or nails.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Outside, as pushing in is probably the default for most pests and predators. Attaching it very securely with screw and fender washers, or stapling/nailing and sandwiching trim over it, will help with any pulling from predators.

 

[3KillerBs]

Outside. Predators tend to push or rake. Which is why its recommended that doors in bear country open outwards. Screws and fender washers, not staples or nails.

Or, if you use staples use the super-heavy-duty, fired from an air-gun type. DH bought the 7/8" barbed fencing staples.

This is what DH bought to install them:

https://www.amazon.com/Freeman-PFS1...stapler&qid=1620838954&sr=8-4#customerReviews

Then cover them with wooden trim to make sure there are no edges a predator could get hold of.