More specific Mews design/questions

[jmsst2]

Okay, I have been thinking about mew design, and I have a few, more specific questions. First of all, I am thinking of an 8x32 size area. Here is the design:

8x8 area:
Work area

8x12 area:
Indoor mew. One window on each side. Window size 3x4 (3 feet high, 4 feet across)

8x12 area:
Weathering area. Aviary netting enclosed by some sort of wire or some other material

Set up would be: (work area)(Indoor Mew)(Weathering area)

Here are my questions:

1. The weathering area. I know an 8x8x8 space is required (I’m using 8x12x8 in this design). Now I guess I would use the aviary net to construct the 8x12x8 area. My question is how I would go about surrounding the aviary net with a back-up wire fence shell. The aviary net will be flush with the wooden structure; however the back-up wire fence would have to be larger than the 8x12x8 part. So, what do you propose? How much space is needed to be in between the aviary net and the wire fence?

2. Windows. I don’t want the bird to get stressed out, yet I need good ventilation. I was just wondering if the windows are too big. With 3x4 windows in an area of 8x12x8 will the raptor have sufficient hiding places and feel secure?

3. Okay, here is a general material question. What are your suggestions for building materials? I’d like to keep the cost as low as possible, however I need a safe and solid structure. I hear plywood is common. Will it hold up well in the wind and snow, or should I look into a thicker wood material? I’m just looking for advice and ideas on this.

Also, I don’t expect anyone to know this answer, but I’ll throw it out anyway. Anyone have a ballpark estimation of how much an 8x12x8 structure similar to the design I explained would cost?

Thanks for any advice and ideas!

[kenbro77]

My windows are 4 x 4 one on North wall and one on west wall and a 4 x 8 window in roof. As for the cost depends on how well you make it and what material. You can go look at my thread and see mine, it cost about $2500 at the point you see in the last pics. I have done some more since and still have more to do. I am figuring it will be $3000

[Deleted]

Plywood is fine with 2x4 framing but I would avoid OSB unless you like to paint a LOT. Spend a little extra now and cover it with siding. Doesn't make sense to rebuild a cheap mews every two years. Build it to last. No exposed OSB or plywood. (I hate painting) ;D

[falco]

I am building a 8X8X8 right now and by the time its all said and done it will have cost me around $450-500. This is 2X4's and plywood. Come spring i will add siding to the design, but for now it will be painted plywood. My guess would be somewhere in the $1000 range for a 8X12X8.