Shade Cloth vs Poly Tarp

[juliect]

I currently have a poly tarp for my Stagecoach Tractor, but I was thinking of upgrading to a shade cloth. Do shade cloths have more "breathability" that poly tarps? Are they waterproof?

I have looked at the lath shade cloths, but they only have a block rate of 78%...which I don't think will be enough in really hot weather.

Any opinions and advice would be appreciated!

Current tarp in use

 

[Cetawin]

I cannot imagine them being waterproof...I have never really noticed mine in rain. I have a 70% over the bird netting to give them a shady area and they love it. it does allow air flow which is nice.

 

[trilyn]

OMG! That is so adorable-I want one! Sorry, can't help you out, I've never compared poly vs. shade cloth before! I just had to comment on how cute your tractor was though.

 

[MIKE555444]

I think the white tarp is a great idea... The white should reflect more light and won't get nearly as hot. I don't think the shade cloth would be any better even with a little more air flow. I also believe the shade cloth will only shead a small amount of the rain.

 

[juliect]

Quote:
Thanks!!! I love it...and my girls do too.
I ordered it from http://www.chickenmobilestagecoach.com nice folks!

 

[WestTexasFarmboy]

I used to have some greenhouses, which I used shade cloth on in the summer. They are definately not waterproof, but would be cooler in hot weather tho, because they allow so much more ventilation. My greenhouses would get steaming hot until I opened the ends and put up the shadecloth. Once I get my run finished, I will use that for sure. They can go in the coop if its raining (but I hear they like to be in the rain too, I don't know mine are only 3 weeks old today.)

 

[juliect]

Quote:
Water was my concern with the shade cloth. The tarp just handles the rain so beautifully, that I hesitate to change out.
Thanks!

 

[espressola]

Shade cloth is not waterproof, but it does let the breeze through. I like the highest percentage coverage possible- I think I've seen it at 95%. I do prefer it to tarps.
Patty N. ;-)

 

[juliect]

Quote:
Tell them "HAPPY BIRTHDAY" for me. Do they get cake?

 

[trilyn]

Quote:
Thanks!!! I love it...and my girls do too.
I ordered it from http://www.chickenmobilestagecoach.com nice folks!

You girl, are an enabler!

I just checked out that site and am so ordering plans. My dh is gonna flip out and whack me upside the head-lol! It'll make the cutest coop for my new batch of chicks next year....