If you’re in the market for hardware cloth, you might be wondering where to find the best deals. As someone who has been through the process of purchasing hardware cloth myself, I can tell you that there are a variety of options available. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most common places to find bulk hardware cloth and discuss the pros and cons of each option.
What is Hardware Cloth?
Hardware cloth is a versatile material that can be used in a variety of applications due to its strength and durability. It is commonly used in construction projects as reinforcement for concrete structures or as a protective barrier against pests and other unwanted intruders. In agriculture, hardware cloth is often used to create cages or fencing to keep small animals like chickens, rabbits, and other livestock safe and contained.
The galvanized steel wire used to create hardware cloth is designed to resist rust and corrosion, making it ideal for outdoor use in harsh weather conditions. Additionally, the mesh pattern provides strength and flexibility, allowing for easy manipulation and shaping to fit a variety of project needs.
Hardware cloth is available in various gauges, or thicknesses of wire, ranging from 19 gauge, which is the thinnest, to 14 gauge, which is the thickest. The gauge of the wire is an important consideration when selecting hardware cloth, as it determines the strength and durability of the mesh. A thicker gauge wire will provide greater strength and durability but may be more difficult to manipulate.
Mesh size is another important factor to consider when selecting hardware cloth. The mesh size refers to the distance between the wires and can range from 1/8 inch to 2 inches. A smaller mesh size is ideal for projects where protection from small animals or insects is necessary, while a larger mesh size is more suitable for projects where a stronger barrier is needed.
In addition to its practical uses, hardware cloth can also be used in a variety of DIY projects, such as creating garden trellises or decorative wall hangings. The versatility of hardware cloth makes it a popular material among DIY enthusiasts and homeowners.
Use of Hardware Cloth
Hardware cloth is commonly used in chicken coops and runs to provide protection and security for the birds. Chickens are vulnerable to predators such as raccoons, foxes, and birds of prey, which can easily break through less sturdy materials like chicken wire. Hardware cloth is a more durable and secure option, with a tighter mesh pattern and thicker wires that can withstand more force.
In addition to keeping predators out, hardware cloth can also help keep chickens in. Chickens tend to scratch and dig, and can easily escape through gaps in fencing or other materials. Hardware cloth can provide a secure barrier to keep chickens contained in their designated area.
Hardware cloth can also be used to create cages or partitions within a larger coop or run. This can be useful for separating birds that may not get along, or for providing a separate space for broody hens to hatch and raise chicks.
Is Hardware Cloth Necessary?
Before we dive into where to find hardware cloth, it’s important to address the question of whether it’s necessary in the first place. The answer to this question depends on your specific situation. If you’re raising chickens or other small animals, hardware cloth can be an important tool for keeping predators out of your coop or run. The small gaps in the mesh make it difficult for animals like raccoons and foxes to get in and harm your birds.
That being said, there are other options available for keeping predators out. As one commenter mentioned, a covered chain link fence can also be effective at keeping predators at bay. However, this option can be quite expensive and may not be practical for everyone.
Where to Find Bulk Hardware Cloth
Now that we’ve established the importance of hardware cloth, let’s take a look at some of the most common places to find it in bulk.
Rural King
Rural King is a well-known chain of stores that has been around since 1960. They specialize in providing farm and ranch supplies, including everything from animal feed to tractor parts. With over 100 locations across the Midwest and Southeast United States, Rural King is a popular destination for farmers, homesteaders, and other rural residents.
In addition to their broad selection of farm and ranch supplies, Rural King also offers hardware cloth, making it a convenient one-stop-shop for all your chicken coop needs. According to one commenter mentioned in the article, Rural King offers some of the best prices on hardware cloth, making it an attractive option for those looking to buy in bulk.
One of the advantages of shopping at Rural King is their commitment to customer service. They employ knowledgeable staff who can help you find exactly what you need and answer any questions you may have. Additionally, Rural King offers a variety of promotions and discounts throughout the year, making it possible to save even more money on your hardware cloth purchase
Tractor Supply
Tractor Supply is a well-known chain of stores that specializes in farm and ranch supplies, including hardware cloth. Tractor Supply stores can be found in many rural areas across the United States, making it a convenient option for those who live outside of major cities.
One advantage of shopping at Tractor Supply is their price matching policy. According to a commenter, Tractor Supply will match the prices of other retailers like Rural King. This can be a great way to get a good deal on hardware cloth without having to shop around.
In addition to hardware cloth, Tractor Supply carries a wide range of products for both livestock and pet owners. They sell feed and hay for horses, cattle, and other animals, as well as a variety of animal health products. They also offer tools and equipment for farming, gardening, and landscaping.
Tractor Supply has a loyal customer base, and many people enjoy shopping there for the friendly and knowledgeable staff, as well as the wide selection of products. They also offer online ordering and delivery, which can be convenient for those who live far from a physical store location.
Local Lumber Yard
Local lumber yards can be a great option for those who prefer to shop locally and support small businesses. While not all lumber yards may carry hardware cloth, it’s always worth checking with your local store to see if they have it in stock. If they don’t, they may be able to special order it for you or recommend another local retailer that carries it.
One advantage of shopping at a local lumber yard is the opportunity to speak with knowledgeable staff who can offer advice and guidance on choosing the right type of hardware cloth for your specific needs. They may also be able to provide tips on installation and maintenance to ensure your hardware cloth lasts for many years.
Another benefit of shopping locally is the potential for lower prices. While big box retailers like Tractor Supply and Rural King may offer competitive prices, local lumber yards may be able to offer discounts or special deals to loyal customers or that buying in bulk
Garage Sales
Garage sales can be a treasure trove of unexpected finds, and hardware cloth is no exception. It’s not uncommon for people to have leftover hardware cloth from DIY projects or home renovations and decide to sell it at garage sales. This can be a great way to get hardware cloth at a lower price than buying it new.
However, finding hardware cloth at garage sales can require a bit of patience and luck. It’s important to keep an eye out for garage sales in your area and make the effort to stop by and browse. When you do find a garage sale that may have hardware cloth, be sure to inspect the product carefully to ensure that it is still in good condition and meets your needs.
Another benefit of purchasing hardware cloth at garage sales is that you may be able to negotiate a lower price with the seller. If the seller is motivated to get rid of the hardware cloth, they may be willing to accept a lower offer than the asking price.
Amazon
Amazon is one of the largest online retailers in the world, and it is no surprise that they carry a wide variety of hardware cloth. The selection on Amazon is vast, with different sizes, gauges, and mesh patterns available to meet any need. Additionally, many sellers on Amazon offer competitive prices, making it a great option for those looking for a good deal on hardware cloth.
One advantage of shopping on Amazon is the convenience of online shopping. You can easily compare prices and read reviews from other customers to help you make an informed purchase. However, it’s important to note that prices on Amazon can vary widely between different sellers, so it’s important to shop around and make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Another potential advantage of shopping on Amazon is the availability of free shipping, particularly for those who have a Prime membership. This can save you money on shipping costs and make it more affordable to purchase larger quantities of hardware cloth.
Conclusion
There are a variety of places to find bulk hardware cloth, each with its own pros and cons. Whether you prefer to shop locally or online, there’s likely an option that will work for you. Ultimately, the key is to shop around and compare prices to ensure that you’re getting the best deal possible. With a little bit of research, you’ll be able to find the hardware cloth you need to keep your chickens and other small animals safe and secure.
