Suitability of canvas tarp for chicken tractor

Posts: 132

Location: Joplin, MO Zone 6b

posted 6 years ago

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

Posts: 3386

Location: Kansas Zone 6a

posted 6 years ago

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.

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