Need to make decision...Pea gravel vs. construction sand on run floor with or without a roof

[dashfox]

I have read so many of the BYC discussions about the pros and cons of pea gravel and sand on the floors or chicken coops and runs. However, what I have not been able to find is how many people that have switched from dirt (muddy) run floors to sand or pea gravel have had uncovered runs. When I say "uncovered", I mean a roof keeping out the rain, we have ours covered in hardware cloth. I have heard many people that have switched to sand say that it becomes a wet and VERY stinky mess and I'm assuming those people do not have their runs protected from rain. Others have said that the smaller pea gravel is better for drainage, etc. and can be hosed down to clean but have not mentioned whether or not their run is covered. I live in VA so rain and snow will be something to consider. I'm also a little unsure about how well anything will be drained and absorbed into the dirt below the gravel or sand because of how compact it is. My husband and I are trying to get our run ready this weekend and I feel like the finer pea gravel is a better option than sand but am not sure whether or not that would require us to put a roof on the run as well.

Thank you so much for any suggestions!

 

[iwiw60]

I can't advise you either way on the sand/gravel issue, but as you live in snow country (not to mention rain) you really REALLY need to put a roof on their run. Just imagine how miserable they'll be shut in the coop during winter months because they can't get outside to get some fresh air for a bit each day. I live in Central Oregon and boy-howdy do we get snow! My run is covered with metal roofing with a hefty sub-roof setup so the weight of the snow won't cave it in. Wishing you well!!