Sand as Coop Bedding?

[britinpa]

I have read some articles recently about using sand as bedding inside our chicken coop and I'm looking for some feedback/more information/answers about this method. We are currently using the deep litter method with straw in our coop but it gets pretty smelly after a few weeks and its hard to keep clean. I Also hear that straw retains moisture which can lead to problems in the winter months. That's why I'm considering switching to sand. However, I'm concerned that sand will not help to keep the chicken coop warm like the straw does during the harsh winter months in New England. Has anyone found success using sand in their coops? Does it really make a difference with the smell? Is my coop going to be too cold? If you have any experience or feedback I would love to hear from you.

I know it's been a while since you first posted this - what did you decide/are you using as flooring? Our chicks have just gone in the coop and I am using pine shavings. I was just looking up sand, particularly for an outside dust bath for my chicks. I came across this article which I thought was very interesting - I think I may consider trying sand in the coop. https://the-chicken-chick.com/chicken-coop-bedding-sand-litter/

 

[deidreg]

I use sand in the coop, pine shavings in the nest. I like sand as it makes poop scooping easy and it stays dry. As for being a good insulator, Kathy Shea Mormino ("The Chicken Chick") says it helps stabilize coop temperature. I thought about using it in the run, but I find it too dusty.