What makes a chicken coop easy to live with?

[rjstagg]

Hi

We are upgrading from just using the classic eglu with run (which we used to rotate around the garden), to adding a walk-in run, which is going to be static. Any advice on what flooring we should use for the walk in run? I was thinking of wood chip (in which case, how often does it need replacing and how many bags do we need?). I read on another forum someone using gravel? Any advice/ideas would be great.... thanks

[gavclojak]

You will now get about a zillion replies and they will all be different!

 

I use wood chip from a local tree surgeon and it's cheap as chips, my area is large so I get a ton for £20. I change it every 4 or so months and use a ground sanitiser once a week and poop pick daily.

 

Lots of people use gravel as a base but I guess that depends on your drainage, and be careful of the sharp stones on chooks feet!

 

If it's a covered WIR auboise may be an option too.

 

It really depends how many hens you have and how big the area is as to how often it needs changing but regular worming and a good sanitiser are essential

[jackian]

I have a WIR and use wood chip or similar and rake over most days and change every few months.. Like Glavclojak I sanitiser once a week and poo pick every day.

 

Jackie x

[mullethunter]

Most of what I've read says the trouble with gravel is that the poo gets in between it and stays there so it gets horrid and stinky.

[mollyripkim]

I use wood chip too, poo pick daily and sanitise weekly.

I did have a gravel area for the ducks but it got really horrible quickly so wouldn't use it again.

[Ain't Nobody Here]

I use Easibed in a smallish covered WIR - works a treat, only change it every few months but use Biodry inbetween.

[Charlottechicken]

My WIR is directly on the soil, and partially covered. The sides have solid brick and concrete foundations to a foot deep and the area outside is surrounded immediately by paving of sorts. The run never smells as the worms are free to come and do their stuff with the poo, and of course it drains as easily as the rest of the garden.

 

It's all very cheap and low maintenance

[rjstagg]

Thanks for all your responses - really helpful!!