Building A Tall Chicken Run On A Budget

Building a chicken run is a great way to give your chickens a safe and secure outdoor space to enjoy. A chicken run is a fenced area attached to a chicken coop, protecting your chickens from predators and giving them freedom when you're not at home. It's important to consider the height of your chicken run, as access for cleaning and maintenance can be difficult if it's too low. While pre-made runs are available, they often require modifications, so building your own 5-foot-tall run using wood, chicken wire, hardware cloth, and other materials can be a cheap and effective solution.

Using free or recycled materials

Building a chicken run can be expensive, but using recycled materials can make it an affordable and sustainable project. You can source common construction materials like wood, wire mesh, and roofing materials from old buildings, scrap yards, or discarded materials.

One way to build a 5 ft tall chicken run using recycled materials is to use free pallets. Choose pallets with closely spaced boards and you won't need to use hardware cloth. You can tie the pallets together with rope and cover the top with inexpensive deer netting.

Another option is to use recycled fence posts and cattle panels. You can pound steel fence posts into the ground and arch the cattle panels over them, wiring them together. You can then cover the panels with chicken wire to deter predators and attach hardware cloth to the bottom to prevent digging.

If you're looking for a more permanent structure, you can use recycled wood to build the frame and walls of your chicken run. You can source wood from old buildings or scrap yards. For the roof, you can use corrugated iron or roofing materials from old buildings.

Remember to choose a location that is sheltered from wind and rain and has access to sunlight. Plan the size of your chicken run, the height of the fencing, and the placement of the entrance. Building with recycled materials is a creative and innovative process, so feel free to adapt and repurpose materials in unique ways!

Chicken wire and hardware cloth

Hardware cloth, on the other hand, is made from thicker steel wires with smaller gaps, typically 1 inch or smaller. It is available in galvanized, stainless steel, or bare steel, and the wires are either woven or welded into a sturdy rectangular or square grid. Hardware cloth is much stronger and more durable than chicken wire, making it more effective at keeping out small predators and ensuring the safety of your poultry.

When building a 5-foot-tall chicken run, you can use a combination of both materials to save costs. For example, you can use cattle panels arched over a wooden framework with chicken wire covering the top to deter overhead predators. Then, attach hardware cloth 2 feet up from the ground on the sides, folding it outward at the bottom into an apron. This combination provides both structural support and protection against predators.

It is important to note that hardware cloth is more expensive than chicken wire due to its superior strength and durability. If you are looking for a cheaper option, you may opt for chicken wire for the entire structure. However, keep in mind that chicken wire may not provide adequate protection against determined predators like raccoons and dogs, which can tear through the wire.

To install hardware cloth effectively, it should be buried at least 12 inches into the ground around the perimeter of the run or underneath the floor. Secure it with screws and washers, as staples can be easily defeated. Additionally, seal all openings larger than 1 inch to prevent small predators like minks and weasels from entering.

Building a predator-proof structure

First, determine the size of your chicken run based on the number of chickens you plan to keep. For example, if you have three hens, a run made of free pallets tied together with rope or zip ties can be a quick, easy, and inexpensive solution. Choose pallets with closely spaced boards, and cover the top with deer netting or chicken wire to prevent overhead predators.

If you're building a permanent structure, consider using materials like wood and wire fencing. For the framework, you can use 4x4 fence posts, 2x4 boards, and 1x6 boards. Cover the frame with welded wire fencing, chicken wire, or hardware cloth to create a secure enclosure. Bury the wire fencing or hardware cloth at least one foot underground to prevent predators from digging their way in.

To further reinforce the structure, screw or nail 2x6 boards along the bottom to secure the fencing and prevent any potential digging. Additionally, ensure the height of your chicken run is adequate. While a 5-foot height is generally sufficient, you may want to consider a taller run if you anticipate larger predators in your area. Cover the top with a tarp or roof to protect your chickens from the elements, especially if you live in an area with snowy winters.

Lastly, consider adding extra security measures such as solar predator lights around the coop and run. If you're concerned about specific predators like raccoons, use hardware cloth or fine wire to prevent them from reaching into the enclosure. By combining these materials and techniques, you can effectively build a predator-proof chicken run that suits your specific needs and budget.

Making it tall enough

Making your chicken run tall enough is important for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that your chickens have enough space to move around comfortably and stretch their wings. A taller run also makes it easier for you to access the structure and perform tasks such as cleaning, refilling food and water, and collecting eggs. Additionally, a taller run can provide better protection from predators and the elements.

To build a 5-foot-tall chicken run, you can use a variety of materials and techniques. Here are some suggestions:

• Use longer wooden posts: If you're using wooden posts to build your run, simply choose longer posts to accommodate the desired height. Cut and secure the wooden timbers together to form panels, ensuring the structure is sturdy and stable.
• Metal piping: You can use 1/2" PVC pipe and fittings to create a frame for your chicken run. For each frame, you'll need two 45-degree elbow fittings, two T fittings, and two 90-degree elbow fittings. The length of the straight pieces will depend on the manufacturer's specifications, but you can adjust the height accordingly.
• Cattle panels: Another option is to use cattle panels arched over a wooden framework. This creates a hoop house structure that can be covered with chicken wire or hardware cloth. Ensure the height of the arch provides enough clearance for you to walk inside comfortably.
• Steel fence posts: Pound steel fence posts into the ground and arch cattle panels over them. Wire the panels to the posts and cover them with chicken wire to deter overhead predators. You can also add lattice for aesthetics and attach hardware cloth around the base to prevent digging predators from entering.
• Movable fence: If you cannot stake posts into the ground due to rocks or other obstacles, consider creating a movable fence using lightweight materials such as plastic netting (chicken fencing) attached to removable panels. This option provides flexibility in terms of height and layout.

When building a 5-foot-tall chicken run, ensure that you prioritize sturdiness and durability. A taller structure may require additional support to withstand weather conditions and potential predator threats. Always consider the number of chickens you have and provide adequate space for them to roam and exercise.

Covering the run

Covering your chicken run is a great way to keep your chickens safe from predators and protect them from the elements. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for covering your 5-foot-tall chicken run on a budget:

First, consider the type of covering you want to use. Some inexpensive options include chicken wire, hardware cloth, and deer netting. Chicken wire is the most affordable option, but it may not be strong enough to keep out determined predators. Hardware cloth is stronger but more expensive. You can use a combination of both, with hardware cloth on the bottom and chicken wire on the top and sides, to balance cost and effectiveness. Alternatively, deer netting is very inexpensive and can be used to cover the top of the run to keep predators out and chickens in.

If you opt for chicken wire or hardware cloth, you'll need to attach it securely to the frame of your run. Use a staple gun to attach the wire or cloth to the wooden posts, ensuring there are no gaps or loose edges that predators could exploit. For added protection against digging predators, bury the wire or cloth a few inches underground or attach it to the outside of the run, burying it 8-12 inches deep in a trench.

If you're using deer netting, you'll need to install wooden posts or stakes around the perimeter of your run. Cut and secure wooden timbers to form panels, and then attach the deer netting to the posts using fence staples, zip ties, or ground staples. Make sure there are no gaps that chickens could escape through or predators could enter.

Don't forget to cover the roof of your run as well. A tarp can be used to keep out moisture and snow, but be aware that snow may still build up and need to be removed. Alternatively, you can use chicken wire or hardware cloth to cover the roof, attaching it securely to the roof trusses.

By following these instructions and tips, you can effectively cover your 5-foot-tall chicken run on a budget, providing a safe and comfortable outdoor space for your chickens.

Frequently asked questions