Roselady Posted March 20, 2013 Share Posted March 20, 2013 Hello there everyone Not posted for ages, been so pre-occupied with new house/puppy. Anyway, we're currently planning a WIR - so exciting, and I'd really like to make use of sedum mats to line the roof. Apart from the obvious of making sure the run can support the weight, can anyone envisage any other problems with this? Would be most interested in fellow omleteers' opinions Many thanks Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Dogmother Posted March 20, 2013 Share Posted March 20, 2013 Nice idea, but the hens would benefit from a clear roof on their run to maximise the daylight they get. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Olly Posted March 20, 2013 Share Posted March 20, 2013 I think it's a great idea but I have to agree - when it snows and my run roof is covered, I'm always amazed at the difference it makes to the light. On the other hand, my run is sheltered by fence, greenhouse and bushes - if it's free-standing and open it may not make as much of a difference. I can't see any other disadvantages though. Could you perhaps cover just part of it with sedum mats? Do let us know if you decide to go ahead. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Dogmother Posted March 20, 2013 Share Posted March 20, 2013 I'd like sedum mats on my shed roof when I replace the shed this summer, so would be interested in your feedback. Ultra-violet light is essential to the flock's health, and it is also useful as a natural bactericide, keeping the run litter healthier. Ideally, your run would be covered to let in plenty of light and keep out any damp, if that helps you decide. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Roselady Posted March 20, 2013 Author Share Posted March 20, 2013 Hi both Thanks ever so much for this. Due to my lack of experience this hadn't even been a consideration so I'm very grateful indeed. We are completely rehauling the garden and not finished my designs yet, but the run won't be entirely freestanding. I may do a small area of it but that is all. The overall health of my little flock is more important. DM, I'm also interested in doing the shed roof with it so I'll feedback. Will also post pics when we've done the run. Thanks again for your invaluable advice Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Redwing Posted March 21, 2013 Share Posted March 21, 2013 If the run has light coming through at other angles the light issue shouldnt be a problem, many many chicken runs have black Onduline roofing with no problems If the run is sited in a shady spot I wouldnt do it though Be mindful of damp and drips if you do it Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Roselady Posted March 21, 2013 Author Share Posted March 21, 2013 Thanks Redwing, much appreciated I'm taking it all into consideration. The garden is now a nearly blank canvas so I can study how the sun moves round. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...