would base of coop/run on the ground?

[Sunnymommy]

If we are building an 8'x14' coop/run that starts with a rectangle of 4x4s on the ground - should we be putting something under that wood rectangle even though they are treated wood to help prevent rotting in the long term? If so, what might that be?

 

[PD-Riverman]

If we are building an 8'x14' coop/run that starts with a rectangle of 4x4s on the ground - should we be putting something under that wood rectangle even though they are treated wood to help prevent rotting in the long term? If so, what might that be?

If they are treated, contact type, they do not need anything But I would add something to keep it off the ground and level personally.

 

[Sunnymommy]

If they are treated, contact type, they do not need anything But I would add something to keep it off the ground and level personally.

What would you add?

 

[Chicken Chat]

I used square concrete pavers. It keeps the floor off the ground a bit and helps dry out the underside faster after it rains.

 

[PD-Riverman]

What would you add?

A brick, paver as stated, 4" solid block----stuff like that.

 

[Almost Acre]

I've got pavers as well underneath the legs of my 4x4 coop.

 

[Sunnymommy]

It wouldn't be just under legs. It would be the entire 8 foot by 14 foot rectangle of the run foundation of 4x4s. So first make the rectangle on the ground out of bricks, then put the 4x4s on that?

 

[trudyg]

How high off the ground will it/should it be? I would be afraid that too low and you'd have something like a skunk taking up residence, a bit higher and a chicken could get under it and you may need a long handle to get out a stinky egg or make it high enough that they are shaded/sheltered but then maybe have a smelly area? Just a passing thought...

 

[aart]

How high off the ground will it/should it be? I would be afraid that too low and you'd have something like a skunk taking up residence, a bit higher and a chicken could get under it and you may need a long handle to get out a stinky egg or make it high enough that they are shaded/sheltered but then maybe have a smelly area? Just a passing thought...

Very good concerns.
I'd go with an apron all around, keep chicken and predators out from under there.
Go with smaller mesh(1/4") to exclude mice.

http://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1110498/wire-around-coop#post_17093528

https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/new-coop-project.1169916/page-2#post-18481208