Cleaning After 5 Year Hiatus

[DFamilyChicks]

Hi,
I just purchased three new chicks yesterday. Currently they are in the garage staying warm and safe. I need to get the coop ready for them. The coop has been sitting empty for 5 years since my last bunch of chickens were slaughtered by a group of raccoons. (My fault for letting them free range and not keeping an eye on them).
Any suggestions for cleaning and preparing for new chicks. The old pellet bedding is still in there. :-( Some weeds have grown in through the sides. Sand in the bottom is pretty clean. Otherwise, the coop is in great shape structurally. Mostly just want to make sure I clean it properly so my new girls don't get sick when I move them out there in a few weeks.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience.

 

[aart]

I'd clear out the wood pellet bedding....that's all.

 

[rosemarythyme]

After this much time I wouldn't be too concerned about any chicken germs in there. Get it cleaned out, check carefully for any deterioration or damage (like weeds growing through means there's gaps, just want to make sure there's no damage along those areas).

 

[DFamilyChicks]

Thanks everyone for the suggestions. I just added an up-to-date picture of the coop. Will definitely follow the advice here to get it cleaned up.

 

[aart]

NICE roof overhangs!!

Pics of inside, please?

Do you have an anti dig apron?
Good examples of anti-dig apron installation.
If rodents are prolific, burying the apron ~12" would be good.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/wire-around-coop.1110498/#post-17093528
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/new-coop-project.1169916/page-2#post-18481208

 

[DFamilyChicks]

I built it with a 10" deep footer of concrete. I think that will do the trick. (See my article on my profile, for more info about how I built the coop). I have never had a problem with predators getting inside the coop. Hopefully it will stay that way. Thanks.

 

[aart]

I think that will do the trick.

Indeed it should!

(See my article on my profile, for more info about how I built the coop).

https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/d-family-chicks.64498/
You should add this to your account details so it shows up under your avatar.

 

[DFamilyChicks]

https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/d-family-chicks.64498/
You should add this to your account details so it shows up under your avatar.

Thanks for the suggestion. I just added it to my profile. Thanks!!

 

[DFamilyChicks]

I'd clear out the wood pellet bedding....that's all.

Thanks for the suggestion.