What size staples to use with wire mesh?

[nelloyello11]

For those of you who have used staples to attach hardware cloth/wire mesh to wood for homemade cages and flights-
What size staples do you recommend for the job?

[lovemyfinch]

I didn't even ask what size were used, we just used the sizes we already had.

[hozzydillster]

n10 staples

[finchmix22]

I can't answer that one, but I used PVC pipes of 1 1/2 inch diameter for my posts and used plastic ties to secure the 1/4 inch black mesh around the poles. I added pvc clear sheets to two sides of the aviary using screws that are rubberized to keep out leaking. On top, I put corrugated tinted roofing to allow sun, but not let it get too hot. This summer we had 108-110 degrees for a month! They get a breeze and have a spot out of sun and wind. Here is a photo prior to full completion. I'll post better photos once the finches are adjusted.

[nelloyello11]

n10 staples

That would be 5/8" right?
I was considering either 1/2" or 5/8" but would need to get a new staple gun, because I think mine only does 1/4", 5/16" and 3/8". Do you think 3/8" would hold? It will be indoors, so I am not worried about keeping critters out, and it will not be exposed to weather conditions like wind.

I can't answer that one, but I used PVC pipes of 1 1/2 inch diameter for my posts and used plastic ties to secure the 1/4 inch black mesh around the poles.

I hadn't thought of using zipties. I will definitely look into that.

[cindy]

Nelissa you want the staples to go in at least 1/2 to 3/4 into the wood to be secure, the folks at the hardware store can help you with the right type and size based on the the wood thickness.

I used to small and thin of a staple it came free in spots, so we used a thicked longer staple. Sinking the staple at least 1/2 way into the wood should be good.

[nelloyello11]

Nelissa you want the staples to go in at least 1/2 to 3/4 into the wood to be secure, the folks at the hardware store can help you with the right type and size based on the the wood thickness.

I used to small and thin of a staple it came free in spots, so we used a thicked longer staple. Sinking the staple at least 1/2 way into the wood should be good.

Thanks Cindy! I will go with the 5/8" then.

[nelloyello11]

While browsing around on the internet, I came across another possible solution, that I think looks good. Instead of stapling, you use washers and screws, to attach the mesh to the wood.
There's a picture of it, third post from the top at this forum:
http://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/v ... p?id=54531


It might end up being pricier, but maybe not, since I need to buy a staple gun anyhow. Plus I kind like the way it looks.
Any thoughts?

[cindy]

Nelissa, what we did and it made a clean look is staple the mesh to the wood boards and nail another on top sort of maing a sandwich of the mesh. We nailed the top slat on and sunk the nails, added a little wood putty to cover the nail and sanded, painted. It gave a finished smooth look instead or wire on the outside. Or you do the wire to edges inside and the joining ot the slats cover the edges of the wire.

I am thinking of building one soon...so I am going though past ideas and projects to get a plan.

[nelloyello11]

Nelissa, what we did and it made a clean look is staple the mesh to the wood boards and nail another on top sort of maing a sandwich of the mesh. We nailed the top slat on and sunk the nails, added a little wood putty to cover the nail and sanded, painted. It gave a finished smooth look instead or wire on the outside. Or you do the wire to edges inside and the joining ot the slats cover the edges of the wire.

I am thinking of building one soon...so I am going though past ideas and projects to get a plan.

The wire will be attached on the outside. Ultimately, I will be covering it, "sandwiching" it, as you suggested. But for now, it will be left uncovered. We will likely be moving (not sure how far) in a couple years, so I am trying to plan ahead for disassembly and reassembly... The fewer pieces and layers the better. For now, I am also considering using some molding - the "L" shaped stuff- just on the front corners (top to bottom), to protect our arms and legs when we are walking by, etc.

[cindy]

Sounds good!! Protecting arms and legs is a good thing...nothing worse than wire cuts!!!!

[hozzydillster]

or you gould use u staples

[y2kdejesus]

Deborah,

I am using the same corrgugated roofing and I was having a hard time cutting the material. What do or did you use for cutting the roof. It doesnt help that it has curves in it making it more difficult....

[wellingtoncdm]

My hardware cloth was put on the aviaries with screws and washers on some aviaries and strapping covering staples on others. I think for ease of moving/disassembling you should go with screws and washers.