Building my own coop for the first time

I take it you're already locked into a poured slab. Why not consider a raised coop? These are better in my view as far as air circulation, predator control, and the ability to utilize additional space not afforded with a slab foundation. Chickens adore hanging out underneath raised coops, especially during the heat of summer.

Both raised coops and slabs can accommodate any sort of coop bedding material. I am using sand in both my raised coops and runs. I've found the sand acts as a heat sink, warmer in winter and cooler in summer, as well as ease of cleaning.

How did you raise yours? My idea for that would be to sink cinder blocks in the ground around the perimeter and use it to anchor the legs and keep it level.

Also I've been thinking about bedding options. My father always used hay. Any issues with sand? No respitory problems for the birds?

lostboy said:

How did you raise yours? My idea for that would be to sink cinder blocks in the ground around the perimeter and use it to anchor the legs and keep it level.

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I have two coops. One is on 4x4 legs sitting on top cinder block since my facilities are on a slope. The cinder blocks were a nifty way to handle the upside half of the one coop. The downslope side of this coop rests on cement pavers.

My other coop, built before the one on cinder blocks, is on relatively level ground so it has 4x4 legs sitting on cement pavers. Both coops are elevated so the chickens can enjoy the space underneath. While I have had a couple of rattlesnakes find their way into the run, none have been able to get into the coops in the ten years I've been keeping chickens. This is the biggest reason why I like elevated coops.


No respiratory issues with the sand. No more than any other bedding would have. Chicken feather dander and is a source of most dust in any bedding. My clay soil drying out and working up through the sand has added a small amount of dust. The sand isn't any worse than the pine shavings I used to have in the coops, maybe even less dusty, but far easier to keep clean.

I would expect more people would react to allergens in straw bedding than there are in sand and regular soil. But the chickens have never demonstrated any problems with the dust their own bodies have created.

Thanks for the input. I think I'm going to level it with cinder blocks and do a raised wood floor with linoleum. My biggest predators besides red tailed hawks are feral cats and raccoons. We get a few coral snakes but they usually run away. I have pressure treated 4x4 so I will use them. What type of sand have you been using? That would make clean up easier.

I use masonry sand. I initially used construction sand but it was too course. Masonry sand is finer and the chickens like it for dirt bathing. It's also easier to see the poop. I suppose beach or river sand would be similar, but my gravel yard doesn't sell those grades. The masonry sand also has a smattering of pebbles in it so the chickens find the sizes they need for grit. Here in Colorado, it goes for $40 a yard.

Sounds like you're figuring it out. Go with your gut, you'll be fine.