What to do? Floor built in Run.

[SheaLoner]

Is it open on all sides, just with hardware cloth walls?

Hardware cloth on all sides. I had ordered clear quality tarps to block off the wind and weather for winter.

 

[SheaLoner]

there is a hen house too, i think, but i dont see a hole for them to get inside. Oh i have no idea but its still beautiful. I would paint that So nice and make it a chicken playground over there.

I cut the door in place. I hadnt made up my mind when I ordered the coop on if I was doing an auto door or where I wanted it.

 

[SheaLoner]

This was a couple of days after getting it in place, before the tarps went up. I have a ladder ramp along the back wall, the enclosed portion has a 2x2 door to access the roosting bars and nesting box.
I will be adding a window when the weather clears. And doing /something/ withthe run floor.

 

[DrDrumstick]

View attachment 4260528
I had this coop built by some Amish. I ran out of time to build it myself this year. A few miscommunications led to it being built with a floor in the run section.
Its not what I had planned for, as I was going to do a Gravel and wood chunk base in the run.
Now I am scratching my head on what to use now. Shavings and bedding pellets? Straw bale? It is made of pine and winter set in 2 days after recieving the coop, so sealing the floor wont be possible till spring. I have clear vinyl coming to keep the weather out.
Should I tack a tarp down then put bedding on top?

That’s a really solid‑looking coop, and the floor in the run isn’t a dealbreaker — you just need to treat it differently than an open‑ground run. The biggest thing you’re managing now is moisture, not predators.

A few options that work well on a floored run:

1. Pine shavings (the easiest option)

• Absorbent
• Easy to clean
• Doesn’t mat down
• Works well in winter
This is the closest to “set it and forget it” until spring.


2. Bedding pellets + shavings

• Pellets absorb moisture fast
• Shavings keep it fluffy
• Great for cold, wet climates
This combo keeps ammonia down and prevents slick surfaces.


3. Straw is the one I’d avoid

• Holds moisture
• Mats down
• Can mold on a solid floor
• Harder to clean in winter
It’s better for deep‑litter on dirt, not on wood.


4. Tarp under the bedding isn’t necessary

A tarp will trap moisture under the bedding and can actually make things worse.
If the floor is raw pine, just keep it dry until you can seal it in spring.

5. Clear vinyl is a great move

Blocking wind + keeping snow/rain out = less moisture = less frostbite risk.

If you want, post a picture of the inside layout and I can help you figure out the best bedding depth and airflow setup for your climate.