What Type of Floor Should Be Used for Chicken Coops?

When building your own chicken coop, you will have to decide early on what floor you will use for your coop. Whatever floor you choose, you will have to put some type of bedding on top to absorb chicken manure and water spillage. However, chickens instinctively scratch and peck, so they can dig through to the floor if the layer of bedding is too thin.

  1. Wire Floor

    • Wire flooring is the easiest type of floor to clean. Chicken wire is tensed above the ground, leaving enough room to clean underneath the chickens. The floor that the chicken walk on stays clean as all the droppings go through. The chickens are not bothered by what would be an uncomfortable floor for us.

    Wood Floor

    • Wood floor is to be used with caution since it can degrade very quickly because of the manure and water spillage. Remember that you cannot use treated wood if you want the organic certification.

    Dirt Floor

    • Dirt floors are good for chickens since they can peck and scratch naturally. However, predators can also burrow into the chicken coop more easily.

    Concrete

    • Concrete is easily maintained, cleaned, and is a secure type of floor for your chicken coop.

    Outside

    • Portable coops will allow the chickens to use the outside ground to peck and scratch. Be sure to move the coop once a day to avoid having the chickens destroy the ground that they are on.