Constructing A Safe Chicken Run With Wire

Building a chicken run is a great way to let your chickens roam outside while keeping them protected from predators. Chicken wire is a key material for building a run, but it's important to note that regular chicken wire will not keep out predators. To build an effective chicken run with chicken wire, you'll need to combine it with other materials such as welded wire fencing or hardware cloth. The process involves planning the structure, digging holes for fence posts, attaching the chicken wire securely, and considering additional features like gates and roofs. Let's take a closer look at the steps and materials needed to build a safe and functional chicken run.

Planning and materials

First, determine the size of your chicken coop and run. The run should provide adequate space for your chickens to roam and exercise. A general guideline is to allow for a minimum of 1 square meter per chicken. If you plan to use the run as the primary daytime habitat, an 8'x6' size will accommodate 4-5 chickens comfortably, provided you have a suitably sized coop attached.

Next, choose the right materials for your chicken run. While you can use various materials, a simple wood and wire structure is recommended. Here are the key materials you will need:

• Wooden fence posts: Use pressure-treated wood to resist insects and deterioration. The size of the posts can vary, but 4x4 or 4x8 posts are commonly used.
• Wooden planks: You will need 2x4 lumber or similar-sized boards to create the frame and attach the wire.
• Chicken wire: This is essential for enclosing the run and creating a barrier. However, regular chicken wire may not protect against predators, so consider using welded wire fencing or hardware cloth for added security.
• Fencing staples or cable ties: These are necessary to attach the chicken wire or welded wire fencing to the wooden posts and create a secure connection.
• Gate and hinges: Install a gate to provide access to the chicken run. You can build your own gate using wooden planks and hinges, or you can purchase a pre-made gate that fits your specifications.

Additionally, consider the following optional materials to enhance your chicken run:

• Shade netting: If your run does not have natural shade, add a layer of shade netting to a section of the top enclosure to protect your chickens from the elements.
• Roof panels: While not necessary, a roof can provide shade and help regulate the temperature inside the run. You can use wooden planks and vinyl sheets to create a sturdy roof structure.
• Hardware cloth: If predators are a concern, consider using hardware cloth along the bottom of the run or in areas where small animals may enter. This is a more expensive option but provides greater protection.

Remember, you can adjust the materials and their quantities based on your specific needs and the size of your chicken run. With proper planning and the right materials, you'll be well on your way to creating a functional and secure space for your chickens to enjoy.

Building the frame

Planning and Materials

Before you begin construction, it is essential to plan the size and layout of your chicken run. Determine the number of chickens you intend to keep and allow for at least 1 square meter per chicken. Decide on the shape of your run, keeping in mind that a rectangular or square design is generally the most efficient use of space.

For the frame, you will need materials such as wooden fence posts, wooden planks, and fencing staples or nails/screws. The number and length of posts will depend on the size of your run. For example, if you plan to build an 8'x6' run, you may use eight 4x4 posts for the corners and additional 2x4 posts for the remaining structure. Ensure you have the necessary tools, including a drill, handsaw, hammer, and staple gun or nail gun.

Preparing the Posts

Mark out the perimeter of your chicken run, ensuring it is level ground. Dig holes for your fence posts at even distances, typically between 2 to 2.5 meters apart. The depth of the holes should be at least 12 inches but can vary depending on the length of your posts. For example, 8-foot-long posts should be anchored at least 18 inches deep, while 10-foot posts should be buried at least 24 inches deep.

Place the posts in the holes and use gravel or concrete to set them firmly in the soil. If you opt for concrete, ensure it dries completely before proceeding. If you are using wooden posts, consider using pressure-treated wood to prevent insect damage and deterioration.

Attaching Horizontal Boards

Once your posts are securely in place, attach horizontal boards across the top of the run. Use 2x4 boards and run them from one fence post on one side to a post on the other side. Drill and screw these boards in place, ensuring they are level. If you have supports in the middle of your run, be sure to attach screws to them as well for added stability.

Optional Reinforcement

For added strength and security, you can attach vertical joists or supports between the bottom and top pieces of the frame. These can be spaced at wider intervals than a typical wall since the chicken run walls will be made of wire. Spacing them at 4-foot intervals should provide ample support.

Gate Placement

When building the frame, remember to designate space for a gate. You can place two posts closer together to accommodate the width of your gate, typically 3 feet wide. Ensure the gate has easy access to your chicken coop and consider attaching it with hinges and a latch that can be opened from both sides.

Now that your frame is complete, you can move on to the next steps, including attaching the chicken wire or welded wire fencing and adding any necessary reinforcements to keep your chickens safe and secure.

Attaching the wire

Prepare the Posts and Fencing Material

Before attaching the wire, ensure your fence posts are securely anchored in the ground. The depth of the posts depends on their length; for example, 8-foot-long posts should be anchored at least 18 inches deep, while 10-foot posts should be buried at least 24 inches deep. You can use concrete to stabilise them if needed. If you're using welded wire fencing, cut it to the required length, keeping in mind you'll need excess for burying it underground.

Attach the fencing to the posts using staples or fencing staples. Space the staples about every 4 to 6 inches along the posts to secure the wire firmly. You can also use a staple gun to attach the wire from the top down, making it easier to manage. Ensure the wire is taut and securely stapled, allowing a little room for movement due to impact or temperature changes.

Securing the Bottom of the Fencing

To protect your chickens from burrowing predators, extend the fencing at least 12 inches below the soil surface. Dig a trench around the run to make burying the fencing easier. You can also bury half-inch hardware cloth to deter small burrowing animals.

Attaching Wire to the Coop

If you're attaching wire to the sides of the coop, build a sturdy frame and attach the wire to it using staples. Ensure you cover all windows and openings to the outside with hardware cloth or wire to keep predators out.

Adding a Roof

If you want to add a roof to your chicken run, build a support frame using wooden planks. Cut the planks to size and join them with nails and/or screws. Then, staple wire netting or welded wire to the top of the frame, creating a partial roof. This will provide shade and help regulate temperature.

Remember, regular chicken wire may not be sufficient to keep out all predators, so consider using welded wire or hardware cloth for added protection.

Adding a gate

Planning the Gate

Before installing the gate, it's important to plan its size and placement. The gate should be wide enough to accommodate a wheelbarrow or any equipment you'll need inside the run. A standard gate width of 3 feet should be sufficient. Additionally, choose a convenient location for the gate, ensuring it's easily accessible from your chicken coop.

Building the Gate

The construction of the gate involves a few simple steps:

• Gather the necessary materials, including wood, hinges, latches, and screws.
• Cut and assemble the wooden pieces to create a sturdy frame for the gate. Connect shorter wooden pieces to longer ones using 2- to 3-inch wood screws inserted at an angle for a secure fit.
• Attach L-brackets to the gate for added stability. The number of L-brackets may vary, but eight L-brackets should provide ample support.
• Hang the gate using hinges. You can choose from a variety of hinges available at hardware stores, selecting the style and finish that best suits your needs.
• Install a latch on the outside of the gate to securely close it. Don't forget to cut a hole beside the latch, allowing access to the latch from inside the run.

Installing the Gate

• Dig holes for the gate posts at the chosen location. Space the holes about 2 to 2.5 meters apart, ensuring they are deep enough—at least 30 centimeters.
• Place the gate posts in the holes and secure them firmly. You can use gravel or concrete to set the posts in the soil for added stability.
• Attach the gate to the posts using hinges and ensure it swings open and closed smoothly.
• Test the latch mechanism to make sure the gate securely closes and can be easily operated from both sides.

Remember, you can always refer to online resources or seek advice from hardware stores for further guidance on building and installing gates.

Protecting against predators

When building a chicken run, it is important to consider the types of predators in your area and take measures to protect your chickens. Here are some ways to protect your chickens from predators:

Firstly, identify the potential predators in your area. Common chicken predators include foxes, coyotes, dogs, cats, weasels, raccoons, snakes, hawks, and eagles. Knowing your predators will help you implement specific protection measures. For example, if you have aerial predators like hawks and eagles, electric fencing can help keep your chickens safer from above, although it won't stop these predators entirely.

Secondly, do not rely solely on chicken wire for protection. While chicken wire is great for containing chickens, it will not effectively exclude predators. Regular chicken wire can be easily breached by predators like raccoons, foxes, and dogs. Instead, use welded wire fencing with small openings (no larger than 0.5 inches) or hardware cloth to enclose your run. Bury the fencing at least 12 inches underground to prevent digging predators like snakes and foxes from tunneling their way in. You can also attach a strip of hardware cloth along the bottom of the run to prevent animals from reaching through the openings.

Additionally, consider installing a roof or covering over the run to protect against flying and climbing predators. A partial roof made of chicken wire can provide shade and deter hawks and eagles. For maximum security, cover the run with hardware cloth or use netting to deter climbing and flying predators.

Implement multiple layers of protection, such as motion sensors, lights (red, blinking, and motion-activated), and alarms. Electric poultry netting or electric fencing can also be effective, especially against larger predators like bears. Ensure that the electric fence is "hot" or high-powered to prevent animals from jumping over it.

Finally, teach your chickens to return to the coop at night. Chickens are most vulnerable when they are asleep, so keeping them locked up in the coop at night will provide added safety.

Frequently asked questions