Coop/run on concrete?

[PotassiumJunkie]

Is this possible to do?

If so what substrate can you give them to scratch around?

It will only be a temporary measure til we grow a lawn lol

 

[Ridgerunner]

It is absolutely possible, many do it for their permanent coop/run. The man thing is to make sure it drains and does not hold water. You can use any of the normal beddings on it: sand, straw, hay, wood chips, wood shavings, dried leaves, the list goes on and on.

I don't understand why you need to grow a lawn before you build your permanent coop/run? Unless it is huge, the chickens will clean out any green stuff anyway. Why can't you use the concrete one permanently? Or extend the run into the dirt if that is your wish? I'd like some dirt area in there so they can more easily dust bathe.

 

[BirdGirl2004]

I have seen many coops/runs over concrete! What you can do to substitute for the grass (until yours grows in) is add sand or small gravel! They can still scratch around just like on grass. Although you'll want to make sure that they have ample greens and bugs because they won't be getting that from the concrete. Heres a couple ideas:

Hope this helps! Good luck!

 

[pintail_drake2004]

my coop is on a concrete slab a I poured. I wanted it to keep it easier to clean we just put pine shavings on it. The run is dirt though.

 

[lilmillefleur]

My coop started out on an old shed foundation but thanks to chicken math it has spread onto the dirt as well. LOL
The pro is, it is literally impossible for predators to get in!
The only problem I have found is that you can't do the Deep Litter Method on concrete.

 

[PotassiumJunkie]

Great replies thanks so much! I think I will keep the concrete permanently then, sounds easier. Was going to put them on grass/ground just so it was more natural for them but if I can recreate it on concrete with the use of substrate I can go with that lol.

I have seen many coops/runs over concrete! What you can do to substitute for the grass (until yours grows in) is add sand or small gravel! They can still scratch around just like on grass. Although you'll want to make sure that they have ample greens and bugs because they won't be getting that from the concrete.

Just to check, what do you mean ample greens and bugs?

 

[BirdGirl2004]

Great replies thanks so much! I think I will keep the concrete permanently then, sounds easier. Was going to put them on grass/ground just so it was more natural for them but if I can recreate it on concrete with the use of substrate I can go with that lol.



Just to check, what do you mean ample greens and bugs?

Great replies thanks so much! I think I will keep the concrete permanently then, sounds easier. Was going to put them on grass/ground just so it was more natural for them but if I can recreate it on concrete with the use of substrate I can go with that lol.



Just to check, what do you mean ample greens and bugs?

I mean that chicken need lots of protein, so bu he clover, and all that stuff give their bodies lots of protein and nutrients. Although this is not NECESSARY, I always like to keep mine fresh with it to ensure th st are the healthiest they an be.

 

[snow5164]

I give my girls a pail of grass and weeds I pick for them most days, the demolished the grass in their 30x 10 foot run in less then 30 days .. pure mud now .

Keep a bucket in the kitchen for fruit and veggie cut offs, the slop bucket will be appreciated by the hens