Deep Litter Method in Run

[jaruta]

Hi Everyone! I have decided (I think) to do the deep litter method in my covered run and sand in the coop. My only concern is the pine shavings getting wet. Just because there is a roof doesn't mean rain will not blow in. How do you handle this?

 

[chiknhurder]

I'm not 100% sure but I believe the deep little method is a means of keeping the chickens warm during very cold weather because as it composts, it gives off heat and it's not just a "fill it up with deep bedding and let it go" thing. It has to be tended to by turning it and adding new bedding. It's an alternative to adding heat such as heaters or lamps. Sand would not help to keep them warm in the winter time but then I don't know how your winters are. Sand in the run and deep litter in the coop make more sense to me but that's just my opinion.