one of the things that I’ve been wondering about is where to get sand for my chicken run. I know that there’s a special kind of sand that I need, but I’m not sure where to find it. After doing some research and asking around, I’ve come up with a few options.
Lowes or Local Garden Supply
When it comes to finding sand for your chicken run, your local home improvement store like Lowes or a garden supply store is a great place to start. These stores usually have bags of multi-purpose sand that you can use for a variety of projects, including chicken runs. These stores are also convenient because they are often located in close proximity to residential areas.
However, before you head to your local store, it’s important to know what type of sand you should avoid. Play sand, for example, is too fine and may contain harmful chemicals that could be harmful to your chickens. While it’s not entirely clear whether play sand is chemically treated, it’s always best to be cautious when it comes to the safety of your chickens.
So, when you’re at Lowes or your local garden supply store, make sure to look for bags of multi-purpose sand that are labeled safe for animals or poultry. These types of sand are generally larger in particle size and do not contain any harmful chemicals that could harm your chickens. Be sure to read the label carefully to ensure that you’re getting the right type of sand for your chicken run.
In addition to the safety factor, you may also want to consider the price when choosing where to buy your sand. Lowes and other home improvement stores may charge a premium for their products due to the convenience factor of having them readily available. Alternatively, you may want to consider looking for a local garden supply store, which may offer a more economical price for the same product.
Sand and Gravel Company
Another option is to call a sand and gravel company in your area. These companies typically have different types of sand available and can recommend the best type for your chicken run. It’s important to communicate your needs clearly so that they can provide you with sand that’s suitable for your chickens. You don’t want sand that’s too fine, as it can become dusty and may irritate your chickens’ respiratory system.
When calling a sand and gravel company, be sure to ask about the price. While they may have the sand you need, it may not be the most economical option. However, they may be able to recommend other places to look for sand that may be more budget-friendly.
Online Retailers
In addition to physical stores, you can also find sand for your chicken run from online retailers. This option may be more convenient for those who prefer to shop from the comfort of their own home. However, it’s important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase. Look for retailers that specialize in sand for construction projects or specifically mention using sand for chicken runs.
When buying sand online, be sure to check the shipping fees and estimated delivery times. You don’t want to end up paying more for shipping than for the sand itself, and you’ll want to make sure that the sand arrives in time for your project.
DIY Sand
If you’re looking for a more personalized option for your chicken run, making your own sand mixture might be the way to go. While it may require more effort, it allows you to have complete control over the materials you use. To make your own sand mixture, you’ll need to gather sand and other materials like soil, peat moss, or wood chips. These materials help to absorb moisture and provide a softer surface for your chickens to walk on.
Before getting started, it’s essential to research the types of materials that are safe for your chickens to come in contact with. For instance, some types of wood chips may be toxic to chickens. Therefore, you’ll want to use materials that are safe and non-toxic.
Once you have your materials, mix them together in a large container or wheelbarrow. You can adjust the ratio of sand to other materials depending on your chickens’ needs. However, it’s important to note that too much soil or wood chips can make the mixture too absorbent and may lead to a soggy mess. On the other hand, too much sand may make the surface too hard and abrasive for your chickens’ feet.
After mixing your materials, spread the mixture over your chicken run to create a level surface. If the mixture is too dry, you can add water to moisten it, but be careful not to make it too wet. The sand mixture should be easy to walk on and provide a comfortable surface for your chickens.
While making your own sand mixture may require more effort, it can be a great option if you want to have complete control over the materials used in your chicken run. Just be sure to do your research and create a mixture that’s safe and comfortable for your chickens.
Local Farms or Feed Stores
Local farms or feed stores may also carry sand suitable for use in chicken coops. These establishments often cater towards poultry owners and may have a better understanding of the specific needs of chicken bedding. Additionally, purchasing from a local source can support your community and reduce the environmental impact of shipping sand from afar.
Tips for Choosing Sand for Your Chicken Run
When choosing sand for your chicken run, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Avoid play sand – as mentioned earlier, play sand is too fine and may contain harmful chemicals that could be harmful to your chickens.
- Choose sand that’s not too fine – sand that’s too fine can become dusty and may irritate your chickens’ respiratory system.
- Make sure the sand is clean – you don’t want to use sand that’s contaminated with debris or harmful substances.
- Consider the moisture level – sand that’s too wet can lead to bacterial growth, while sand that’s too dry can become dusty.
- Think about the surface – you want a surface that’s comfortable for your chickens to walk on and won’t cause injuries. Adding materials like peat moss or wood chips can help provide a softer surface.
Conclusion
Getting sand for your chicken run may seem like a daunting task, but there are several options available. Lowes or a local garden supply store may have bags of multi-purpose sand that can be used for your chicken run. Alternatively, you can call a sand and gravel company to get recommendations for sand that’s suitable for chickens. If you’re feeling up for it, you can even make your own sand mixture. Just remember to avoid play sand, choose sand that’s not too fine, make sure the sand is clean, consider the moisture level, and think about the surface. By keeping these things in mind, you’ll be able to find sand that’s perfect for your chicken run.
