Suitability of canvas tarp for chicken tractor

Posts: 137

Location: Seymour, MO Zone 6a

posted 12 years ago

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I'm working on designing a lightweight chicken tractor for my layers. They will house 50 RI red or Barred Rock Layers year round here in SW Indiana and be roughly 8'x16' in size with roosts up high close to the hooped roof.

I'm thinking about using a canvas tarp for the top. Canvas seems appealing because it breathes a bit and is heavy duty.

My concerns are that it might mold or have to be treated with chemicals for water resistance. Moreover, it weighs more than I would prefer.

Is canvas worth considering, or should I be looking at nylon or poly?

Luke Townsley
www.saltmakers.com

R Scott

pollinator

Posts: 4095

Location: Kansas Zone 6a

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posted 12 years ago

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I have had a waxed cotton tarp on a small tractor for going on three years, winters and all and still looks new. Lasted much longer than poly.

"You must be the change you want to see in the world." "First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win." --Mahatma Gandhi
"Preach the Gospel always, and if necessary, use words." --Francis of Assisi.
"Family farms work when the whole family works the farm." -- Adam Klaus

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