Cement backer board?

[crsch1888]

Hi, was just wandering if you could use cement backer board for coop flooring, we have a couple of pretty good size pieces left over from remodel of kitchen & wandered of how maybe I could use them instead of going to waste. I don't know anything about the stuff, other than it had to go under my tile, so please excuse me if this is a totally unacceptable idea. Any input would be great! Thanks

 

[TwoCrows]

Anything works as long as they can't eat or destroy it. If it's tough material and you cover the flooring with a good litter, it should work fine.

If this is a material that will retain cold, using grass hay, wood shavings or chips on the floor will insulate the birds feet from the cold. (my floor is dirt and it gets MIGHTY cold in the winter, I use wood chips on the floor and the birds stay toasty warm.)

Good luck!

 

[Dmontgomery]

It should work great for coop flooring. It would never rot and would be pretty simple to clean. It can develop mold on it though, so check under the bedding periodically for that. Depending on how big an area you will have, make sure it has adequate supports (floor joists) under it. Although it is strong, it can snap under too much pressure.

 

[crsch1888]

Ok thanks. Is there anything I can put down to help it keep from molding?

 

[Dmontgomery]

Ok thanks. Is there anything I can put down to help it keep from molding?

Just change out the bedding material once in a while. In normal applications (shower stalls or under flooring) it won't mold because moisture doesn't get to it. In a coop, urine and other fluids will sit on it, not be absorbed by it. With a layer of bedding on top, mold "could" develop if it just sits for a long time. You probably won't even have that problem though. It's just a possibility.