Sand in coop

[inmychickenmomera]

Hello! I am now officially switching to sand vs pine shavings in the girls coop now that they have entered their sassy teenage stages. I found one at TSC, but it doesn’t define if it is medium to coarse grit. Would this be okay?
The coop would be the only area getting the sand, their run is pine shavings and clover and dirt from the grass that was there before.

 

[cavemanrich]

That sand will be just fine.
You don't have your location in your profile. Reason I am asking??? Climate does have a factor in satisfactory use of sand. In very humid areas, peeps did not like using sand. It got musty if not dried.
I'm in the upper mid-west, and sand is fine in my area.

WISHING YOU BEST,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,and

 

[inmychickenmomera]

That sand will be just fine.
You don't have your location in your profile. Reason I am asking??? Climate does have a factor in satisfactory use of sand. In very humid areas, peeps did not like using sand. It got musty if not dried.
I'm in the upper mid-west, and sand is fine in my area.

WISHING YOU BEST,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,and

Perfect! I’m in the PNW! The plan is to only use the sand during the summer then as it gets cooler switch back to the deep litter method!

 

[BabeMj]

Does sand work in the coop where they nest and sleep or only in the run. Looking to get away from hay straw

 

[cavemanrich]

Does sand work in the coop where they nest and sleep or only in the run. Looking to get away from hay straw

Yes sand works in coop as well. It is easy to sift out to remove the chicken gumdrops.
The only drawback with sand, is if you have a leaky coop. Best not to have wet sand inside coop. Also wet sand in coop (winter) would freeze, and that is not desired.
In the run, getting wet is no problem. It drains well, and good as new when dry conditions return.

 

[BabeMj]

Is there a specific sand for the coop that it’s harmful for the hens

 

[cavemanrich]

Is there a specific sand for the coop that it’s harmful for the hens

Generally, course sand is the desired product. It does not create as much dust as fine sand.
Many peeps frown from using Play Sand available at most places. The claim is that it is dusty.
My view.
If it is fine for children to play in, I do not see it as Dangerous.
I use Construction grade concrete type sand, That I purchase bulk at cement yard. I use that for multiple purposes.
My coop, I use hay, deep bedding method. I don't want deep litter,,, because no desire to have a composting floor. I clean out when needed, and throw contents into garden grounds.
I don't use in coop, but in run area,, do have an area where the chickens can choose to dust bathe. Somehow,,, the chickens prefer the ground soil for their baths.