How to contain sand in the run?

[kauana]

Hello everyone,

I am considering using sand in my chicken run, but my foundation is not completely level so there are some gaps where the frame meets the pavement blocks which I will cause some sand to escape the run.

I was wondering if anyone here has any recommendations on how I can contain the sand in the run? I have bought weed block fabric but it is too thin and I know it will get destroyed pretty quickly. I also thought about using tar paper but I suspect the chickens will also destroy it pretty quickly.

So, did anyone have problems with sand escaping the run or any tips on how to contain the sand in the run? Thanks a lot

 

[perkolator]

I don't think it's possible to keep it all contained unless you have solid walls. Perhaps a short baffle along the bottom perimeter could help a lot - like fence boards, pallet slats, etc. would be a cheap addition to try out. They'd likely peck at the tar paper or weed block fabric.

My chickens have a boat as a dirt bath, which has about 10" of exposed sides above the dirt level - they still manage to fling the dirt out when they're digging/scratching in it.

 

[aart]

Pics of said run foundation?

 

[Farmgirl1878]

We basically built a box out of 2” by 12” boards that we sank into the clay soil.