Why are the backs and floors of the hutches made of ply?

We use thinner plywood on the backs and floors of the hutches for a few reasons:

1. The back part of hutches are the most underused part of the hutch; pets don't come into contact with the back walls. Sometimes pets can urinate up the walls but is usually a behavioural issue and can be addressed separately.
2. The great majority of customers site their hutch up against a wall, fence or out-building. Because of this hutch back panels are sheltered from the harsh weather and need very little in the way of protection.
3. The overhang of the roof at the back is enough to clear running rainwater down from the top without coming into contact with the back panel.

Using Thicker Ply or A Solid Wood

We could, of course, use thicker plywood or indeed a solid wood equivalent for the back panels. One reason we don't is that this would add unnecessary weight to an already heavy delivery parcel increasing the chance of damage if the boxes were to be dropped.

There also would be an increase in cost, which would reflect on the retail price and for the amount of wear and tear the back panels see, an increase of thickness, weight and price has proven not to be warranted.

Safety Concerns & Correct Siting of Your Hutch

If possible, we recommend always placing your hutch up against a wall or structure. Because hutches are open at the front they can if strong winds permit catch your hutch and blow them over, even lower down single tired hutches.

Siting your hutch up against a building or along the edge of your garden will help prevent the hutch from catching the full brunt of gusts of winds. 

Add a cover if siting options are limited.

If you have limited options where to place your hutch and have no choice but to have your hutch open to the elements, we would recommend adding a water-resistant hutch cover.

A cover will repel the rainwater and let it run off protecting the plywood back. Keep the front of the cover rolled up (weather permitting) to keep fresh cool air flowing through the hutch.

For more info on covers, check out this helpful article: How do the covers work with the hutches