sand for a covered run

[kathrynmary]

Would it be feasible to use a 2-3 inch layer of sand for a 5x8 covered run? Should PDZ and de be added before the sand is put in the run and at what ratios or just added as a top coat?
In Minnesota because of our cold winters will I need to cover the sand with straw to keep the hens' feet from freezing? Except for very cold winter days the hens are in a large fenced in area so the run should not get too dirty except in the winter. Any and all suggestions will be welcome. After a year with my chickens I am still a newbie with many questions. Thanks for all your answers so far.

 

[lynnehd]

Well, I can't address the cold weather aspect, being in the PNW. I do know chickens go out on snow, so their feet are likely pretty tough.

Anyway, I have about 4-6" of sand in my covered run, and I added a couple of 40# bags of Stall Dry (not PDZ, but an absorbent, non toxic mix) on top, and lightly mixed it in. My run is 6x10' (part under the coop).
It works very, very well. If it gets wet, because sometimes I wet the run down in hot weather, it dries out quickly.