Everything that you need to know about #7: Hardware Cloth
Everything that you need to know about #7: Hardware Cloth
We commonly get asked to explain the difference between the mesh options that we offer. We also are asked to define the terms, such as woven mesh, wire cloth, wire mesh etc. More commonly in recent times we are asked about hardware cloth. The aim of this article is to answer any questions that you may have.
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Hardware cloth is a type of mesh material made from metal wire that is used for a variety of applications, including construction, fencing, and home repair. It typically consists of a series of interwoven metal wires that form a grid pattern. The wire used in hardware cloth is often made from galvanised steel, which provides a measure of rust resistance and durability. Hardware cloth is used for a wide range of purposes, including building screens, reinforcement for concrete, and as a barrier for animal protection. It can also be used for filtering, protection and support in industrial settings.
Which hardware cloth you should choose will depend on the specific application or project you are using it for. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the woven mesh for you:
&#; Mesh size: The mesh size refers to the size of the openings in the wire mesh. Smaller mesh sizes are better for keeping small animals out, while larger mesh sizes are better for larger animals or debris.
&#; Gauge: The gauge refers to the thickness of the wire. A lower gauge number means a thicker wire, which will be stronger and more durable.
&#; Material: Woven wire mesh is available in several materials including galvanised steel, stainless steel and aluminium. Galvanised steel is the most common and affordable, while stainless steel is more corrosion resistant and aluminium is lightweight.
&#; Rust resistance: If the wire cloth will be exposed to the elements, you may want to choose a material that is rust-resistant.
Yes, hardware cloth can be used to keep rats out. Hardware cloth with small enough mesh can prevent rats from entering an area because they are unable to squeeze through the openings. The wire mesh should have openings that are 1/4 inch or smaller to effectively keep rats out. When using hardware cloth to exclude rats, it is important to make sure that all potential entry points are sealed and covered with the mesh, including gaps around pipes and wires. The mesh should be securely attached to the surrounding surface to prevent rats from gnawing their way through it. Additionally, it is a good idea to check the mesh regularly for signs of damage or wear and to repair or replace it as needed.
We offer stainless steel hardware cloth with 1mm and 2mm holes for this very purpose. Our rodent mesh is well known to be long lasting and great value for money.
When choosing hardware cloth for a chicken coop, it is important to consider the size of the mesh and the gauge of the wire. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the right hardware cloth:
Mesh size: The mesh size should be small enough to keep chickens in and predators out. A mesh size of 1/2 inch or smaller is typically recommended.
Gauge of wire: The gauge of the wire should be sturdy enough to withstand the weight of chickens and potential predators. A wire gauge of 19 or heavier is recommended.
Rust resistance: Chickens can be hard on their coops, so it is important to choose hardware cloth that is rust resistant. Galvanised hardware cloth is a good option, as it is resistant to rust and corrosion.
Durability: The hardware cloth should be made from sturdy, high-quality materials to ensure that it lasts a long time.
It&#;s also a good idea to choose hardware cloth that is easy to cut and manipulate, so that you can easily customise it to fit your coop&#;s specific needs. With these considerations in mind, you should be able to choose hardware cloth that is perfect for your chicken coop.
The lifespan of wire mesh will depend on several factors, including the material it is made from, the gauge of the wire, and the environment it is exposed to.
Galvanised steel hardware cloth is one of the most common types of mesh, and it is coated with a layer of zinc to help prevent rust and corrosion. If it is used in a protected area, it can last for several years or even a decade or more. However, if it is used in an area with high humidity or exposure to saltwater, it may not last as long as it would in a dryer environment.
Stainless steel is more corrosion resistant than galvanised steel and can last much longer, up to 30 years or more, especially if it is used in an area where it is exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Aluminium mesh is another option, it is lightweight and resistant to rust and corrosion, and can last for a long time, up to 20-25 years in a marine environment.
Ultimately, the lifespan of your mesh will depend on the specific conditions it is exposed to, so it&#;s always good to check in with the manufacturer before purchase if you require any advice.
Cleaning hardware cloth can be done in several ways, depending on the type of debris or buildup on the mesh. Here are a few methods:
For light debris and dust, use a soft-bristled brush or a dry cloth to sweep or wipe the mesh clean.
For dirt and grime, use a solution of mild detergent and water to scrub the mesh with a stiff-bristled brush or a cloth. Rinse the mesh thoroughly with a garden hose or a pressure washer to remove any remaining soap residue.
For rust or corrosion, use a wire brush or a stainless steel wool to scrub the affected areas. After cleaning, rinse the mesh thoroughly and apply a rust inhibitor or a coat of paint to protect the mesh from further rusting.
For heavy grease or oil buildup, use a degreaser or a solution of hot water and a heavy-duty cleaner to scrub the mesh. Rinse the mesh thoroughly with a garden hose or a pressure washer to remove any remaining cleaner residue.
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It&#;s important to note that when cleaning hardware cloth, be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses to protect your hands and eyes from sharp edges. And also always check the manufacturer&#;s instructions regarding the care and cleaning of the specific material the hardware cloth is made of.
Coop Security: Hardware Cloth vs Chicken Wire
Early in my chicken-keeping adventures, I learned the hard way that there is a big difference between chicken wire and hardware cloth. I now understand that chicken wire is intended to keep chickens confined to an area, not to prevent predators from reaching chickens. My failure to appreciate the differences prior to constructing our first run was costly and my hope is that others can learn from my mistake.
I was no more than 5 weeks into chicken-keeping when I saw the hawk pictured above, peering in at my new pets. Feeling confident that my flock was locked safely in their run, I dashed to grab my camera to snap this shot. What I did not know at that time was that he had already reached through the chicken wire with his razor-sharp talons, taking the life of one of my 5 week old Silkies. We immediately reinforced the run with hardware cloth and no predator has breached our coops&#; security since then.
When considering fencing options for the coop and run, as a general rule, the smaller the openings and the lower gauge the metal, the better security it will provide. This hawk was able to reach in through the large holes of the chicken wire to grasp the chick, a feat he would not have succeeded in had there been hardware cloth in place. Hardware cloth is more expensive than chicken wire, but the initial investment is priceless given the heartache and financial losses it can ultimately prevent.
CHICKEN WIRE
Chicken wire, also known as hex netting, is a twisted steel wire mesh with hexagonal openings that can be galvanized or PVC coated.1 A hungry and determined predator, including but not limited to raccoons and some dogs, can tear through chicken wire with relative ease. It is not recommended as security fencing for chicken coops and runs.
Chicken wire is very flexible and good for making temporary structures designed to keep chickens confined, but it will not stop predators from gaining access to chickens.
HARDWARE CLOTH
Hardware cloth is wire mesh that consists of either woven or welded wires in a square or rectangular grid that is available in galvanized, stainless steel and bare steel.2 It is manufactured from a stronger gauge metal than chicken wire, (the smaller the gauge, the stronger the mesh) making it a much better choice for flock protection. 1/2&#; to 1/4&#; galvanized hardware cloth is typically recommended for coops and chicken runs.
HARDWARE CLOTH INSTALLATION BEST PRACTICES
1. Bury hardware cloth to deter diggers. To protect chickens from predators such as raccoons and dogs, hardware cloth should be buried at least 12 inches into the ground around the perimeter of the coop and run OR buried underneath the floor of the coop and run.
2. Cover all windows with hardware cloth.
3. Secure hardware cloth with screws and washers. Staples are easily defeated by pushing or pulling.
4. Seal all openings larger than one inch with hardware cloth. Minks and weasels can squeeze through very small openings and kill many chickens in a very short period of time.
Sources:
1 Direct Metals
2 Direct Metals
Both illustrations of chicken wire and hardware cloth are from meshdirect.co.uk
Early in my chicken-keeping adventures, I learned the hard way that there is a big difference between chicken wire and hardware cloth. I now understand that chicken wire is intended to keep chickens confined to an area, not to prevent predators from reaching chickens. My failure to appreciate the differences prior to constructing our first run was costly and my hope is that others can learn from my mistake.
I was no more than 5 weeks into chicken-keeping when I saw the hawk pictured above, peering in at my new pets. Feeling confident that my flock was locked safely in their run, I dashed to grab my camera to snap this shot. What I did not know at that time was that he had already reached through the chicken wire with his razor-sharp talons, taking the life of one of my 5 week old Silkies. We immediately reinforced the run with hardware cloth and no predator has breached our coops&#; security since then.
When considering fencing options for the coop and run, as a general rule, the smaller the openings and the lower gauge the metal, the better security it will provide. This hawk was able to reach in through the large holes of the chicken wire to grasp the chick, a feat he would not have succeeded in had there been hardware cloth in place. Hardware cloth is more expensive than chicken wire, but the initial investment is priceless given the heartache and financial losses it can ultimately prevent.
CHICKEN WIRE
Chicken wire, also known as hex netting, is a twisted steel wire mesh with hexagonal openings that can be galvanized or PVC coated.1 A hungry and determined predator, including but not limited to raccoons and some dogs, can tear through chicken wire with relative ease. It is not recommended as security fencing for chicken coops and runs.
Chicken wire is very flexible and good for making temporary structures designed to keep chickens confined, but it will not stop predators from gaining access to chickens.
HARDWARE CLOTH
Hardware cloth is wire mesh that consists of either woven or welded wires in a square or rectangular grid that is available in galvanized, stainless steel and bare steel.2 It is manufactured from a stronger gauge metal than chicken wire, (the smaller the gauge, the stronger the mesh) making it a much better choice for flock protection. 1/2&#; to 1/4&#; galvanized hardware cloth is typically recommended for coops and chicken runs.
HARDWARE CLOTH INSTALLATION BEST PRACTICES
1. Bury hardware cloth to deter diggers. To protect chickens from predators such as raccoons and dogs, hardware cloth should be buried at least 12 inches into the ground around the perimeter of the coop and run OR buried underneath the floor of the coop and run.
2. Cover all windows with hardware cloth.
3. Secure hardware cloth with screws and washers. Staples are easily defeated by pushing or pulling.
4. Seal all openings larger than one inch with hardware cloth. Minks and weasels can squeeze through very small openings and kill many chickens in a very short period of time.
Sources:
1 Direct Metals
2 Direct Metals
Both illustrations of chicken wire and hardware cloth are from meshdirect.co.uk
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