Building A Chicken Run: Uneven Ground Solutions

Building a chicken run on uneven ground can be challenging, but with careful planning and the right materials, it is possible. The first step is to level the ground as much as possible, either by removing excess ground or filling in holes. A foundation can also be created using concrete, wood, or masonry to ensure stability and structural integrity. To prevent animals from digging into the run, chicken wire or hardware cloth can be used to line the floor and buried just below the surface. The size of the run should be determined based on the number of chickens and standard lumber dimensions to minimise waste and cost. The use of gravel, sand, and concrete piers can also help create a dry surface for the chickens, especially in areas with wet clay soil.

Use gravel, sand, and concrete piers to create a level foundation

Building a chicken run on uneven ground can be challenging, but with careful planning and the right materials, it is certainly achievable. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use gravel, sand, and concrete piers to create a level foundation for your chicken run:

Clear the Area and Set Perimeter

Start by clearing the area of any debris, vegetation, or large rocks. Mark out the perimeter of your chicken run, keeping in mind that chickens need ample space to roam and exhibit natural behaviours. Consider the size of your flock and allow for future expansion.

Level the Ground

Use a post-hole digger to create holes for your support posts. If your ground is sloped, the holes on the higher ground should be deeper to ensure the tops of the posts are level. Insert the posts and add sand to adjust the height, tamping it down until it is just right. Check the level as you work to ensure everything is straight and even.

Create a Gravel and Sand Base

To address the uneven ground and provide drainage, set a perimeter to contain gravel and/or sand. This will raise the floor above any standing water, ensuring it stays dry. The gravel and sand base will also provide a natural surface for your chickens to scratch and forage, promoting their natural behaviours.

Set Concrete Piers

Within the gravel and sand perimeter, set concrete piers to support the structure above. These concrete piers will bear the weight of the wood or other materials you use for framing. Ensure the concrete piers are level and firmly anchored to provide a stable foundation for your chicken run.

Build the Frame

Now, you can build the frame of your chicken run, using wood or other suitable materials. Secure the frame with construction screws, and don't forget to check the level as you work. If needed, adjust the height of the frame by adding small amounts of sand or gravel underneath.

Finalize the Chicken Run

Once the frame is complete and secure, you can add the necessary hardware cloth or wire mesh to enclose the run, protecting your chickens from predators. Don't forget to add a roof to keep your chickens dry and safe from the elements. Finally, add some natural features like flowers or mulch to make the space enriching and enjoyable for your feathered friends.

Remember, creating a level foundation for your chicken run on uneven ground may take some extra effort, but it is worth it to ensure the stability and longevity of the structure.

Trench the outline and build concrete forms stepping down the slope

If you're building a chicken run on uneven ground, one approach is to trench the outline and build concrete forms stepping down the slope. This method involves creating a level surface for your chicken run by constructing a series of concrete platforms or steps that follow the natural contour of the slope. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Planning and Layout

Start by determining the location and size of your chicken run. Outline the area, considering the space required for your flock to roam comfortably. Mark the outline with stakes and string to visualise the perimeter. If you're attaching the run to an existing coop, ensure you allow for an entrance between the two.

Step 2: Trenching

Rent a trencher to dig along the marked outline of your run. The depth of the trench should be sufficient to accommodate the concrete forms and provide stability. Consult a professional or refer to online resources for guidance on the appropriate depth and width of the trench.

Step 3: Building Concrete Forms

Create concrete forms or moulds that will shape the stepping platforms as you move down the slope. You can use wooden planks or other suitable materials to build these forms. Ensure the forms are securely anchored and level, creating a flat surface at each step-down point.

Step 4: Pouring Concrete

Mix and pour concrete into the forms, following the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure the concrete is level and smooth within the forms. Allow the concrete to cure properly before removing the forms. Refer to the concrete packaging or seek advice from hardware stores for guidance on mixing ratios and curing times.

Step 5: Stepping Down the Slope

As you work your way down the slope, repeat the process of building forms and pouring concrete, creating a series of stepping platforms. Ensure each platform is level and securely connected to the previous one. The number of steps will depend on the slope's gradient and the desired height of each step.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once the concrete has cured, you can add the desired flooring material to the level surface you've created. Consider options such as dirt, mulch, or pine shavings, providing a natural environment for your chickens to forage. Don't forget to add any necessary fencing, roofing, or coverings to complete your chicken run.

Remember, while concrete can provide a stable foundation, it may restrict the chickens' ability to scratch and forage freely. Always consider the well-being of your flock and try to provide a natural and enriching environment.

Dig deeper holes for posts on the upside of the slope

Building a chicken run on uneven ground can be challenging, but it is certainly doable. If you're constructing your chicken run on a slope, it's important to ensure that the posts on the upside of the slope are securely anchored. Here's how you can do it:

First, measure out the locations for your posts, taking into account the slope of the ground. The posts on the upside of the slope will need to be positioned deeper into the ground to ensure stability. Using a post-hole digger, create holes for your posts. The depth of the holes will depend on the severity of the slope. As a general rule, dig the holes on the upside of the slope at least 2 feet deep, and ensure that the holes are deep enough to keep the tops of the posts level with those on the lower side of the slope.

Once you have dug the holes, insert the posts. To achieve the correct height, add sand to the holes and tamp it down with the posts. This process will ensure that your posts are sturdy and able to withstand any uneven weight distribution caused by the slope. After positioning the posts, you can follow standard chicken run construction procedures, such as attaching hardware cloth or wire mesh for containment and protection against predators.

It is also important to consider the ground inside the chicken run. While you can leave the ground at its natural slope, providing a level ground for your chickens is beneficial. You can achieve this by using gravel, sand, or other organic materials to create a flat surface for the chickens to walk on. This will ensure that your chickens have a comfortable and safe environment, promoting their natural foraging behaviour.

Additionally, consider adding a covered roof to your chicken run. This will help keep the area dry and protect your chickens from the elements, ensuring that their feed stays dry, and any eggs remain clean. Building a chicken run on uneven ground requires careful planning and construction, but with these steps, you can provide a secure and comfortable space for your chickens to enjoy.

Use chicken wire to prevent animals from digging into the run

Chicken wire is an essential tool to prevent animals from digging into your chicken run. Chicken wire, also known as poultry netting, rabbit mesh, or chicken netting, is a type of wire fence with hexagonal openings. It is made of galvanised or PVC-coated galvanised wires, which provide excellent corrosion and rust resistance. Chicken wire is a popular choice for farmers, pet owners, and gardeners due to its ease of installation and versatility.

To prevent animals from digging into your chicken run, start by laying chicken wire across the entire floor of the run. This will create a barrier that animals cannot dig through. You can use white chicken wire, which is commonly available, or opt for other colours available at your local hardware store. When installing the chicken wire, cut it around any posts and secure it in place with landscaping staples or staples designed specifically for poultry netting.

For added protection, you can attach hardware cloth to the chicken wire. Hardware cloth is a type of wire mesh with smaller openings, typically 1/2-inch in size. This will help prevent even smaller animals, such as snakes, from entering the chicken run. Attach the hardware cloth to the bottom of the chicken wire using tie wire, clips, or clamps.

If you are concerned about animals digging underneath the fence of your chicken run, you can bury the chicken wire about 12 inches underground. This will create a barrier that extends below the ground, preventing animals from digging their way into the run. Alternatively, you can dig a trench around the perimeter of the run and bury the chicken wire in the trench, ensuring that it is securely anchored to the ground.

By following these steps and utilising chicken wire, you can effectively prevent animals from digging into your chicken run, creating a safe and secure environment for your chickens.

Add a roof to keep the run dry and protect from snowfall

Adding a roof to your chicken run will help to keep the area dry and protect your chickens from snowfall. First, you'll need to decide on the type of roof you want to install. Some common materials used for chicken run roofs include:

• Corrugated poly panels
• Plexiglass
• Vinyl shower curtains
• Slanted roof using SunTuf
• Clear tarps
• Wood

If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, it's important to consider the weight-bearing capacity of your roof. A sloped roof design can help to prevent snow buildup, as the snow will slide off easily. Alternatively, you can use a semi-transparent tarp to cover your chicken run, but be sure to only cover the sides and not the top, as the weight of the snow on the tarp could cause the structure to collapse.

When installing your roof, ensure that it is securely attached to the structure of the chicken run. You may also want to consider adding extra support beams to help bear the weight of the snow.

In addition to your roof, there are other measures you can take to protect your chickens from snowfall and keep them warm and dry. These include:

• Installing heated mats to prevent ice from forming and provide a safer surface for your chickens.
• Regularly clearing snow off the roof using a broom or rake after each snowfall.
• Shovelling snow away from the base of the coop and walkways to reduce the chance of moisture entering the structure.
• Checking for and sealing any gaps or cracks in the walls, roof, and around windows and doors to prevent moisture from entering.
• Ensuring proper drainage around the coop to prevent water damage and reduce the risk of ice formation.

Frequently asked questions