From my experience, they do help retain some heat. But in really cold climates, additional insulation might be necessary. It’s about balance!
I think if you’re in a warmer climate, they help with cooling more than heating! Just something to consider based on your location.
Does anyone find them slippery for the chickens? I worry my hens might slide around too much.
I’ve noticed that they can be slippery when wet. Adding a textured mat or straw on top can help prevent slips, though!
That’s a smart idea! I haven’t thought of that. Thank you for your advice!
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Remember to also check the weight of the mats. Some are so light you’d spend more time moving them back in place than doing actual coop maintenance.
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Exactly! I once bought one that was like a muffin! Lightweight and floppy! Not a good fit for my coop.
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Haha, ‘like a muffin’ is a great description! Seriously, if you’re planning to invest, keep long-term usability in mind, as you don’t want to waste money on flimsy mats.
What are the key factors besides durability that I should keep an eye on when selecting rubber mats for my coop?
You should also consider ease of cleaning, cost-effectiveness, and how well they provide traction. Each of these factors can greatly impact daily maintenance and chicken comfort!
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I’ve been using rubber mats in my chicken coop for about a year now. They are great for maintaining cleanliness! Regularly sweeping and hosing them down works wonders.
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How often do you find yourself needing to replace them? I want to ensure I get the most life out of mine!
I haven’t replaced mine in over two years! Just keep up with the cleaning routine, and they should hold up well for a long time.
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That’s encouraging to hear! What cleaning products do you use that are safe for chickens?
Just plain soap and water is what I use! I avoid harsh chemicals—better safe than sorry with our feathered friends.
That’s a good point. I sometimes worry about using anything that might be harmful. Anyone had issues with mats absorbing odors?
I’ve been using an essential oil mix that helps freshen up the mats! Just make sure it’s chicken-safe. My coop smells pretty good!
Do you have a particular oil you recommend? I’m all for natural solutions.
I use lavender oil! It smells lovely and calms the chickens, too. Just a drop here and there does the trick.
I love that idea! I might try it out. By the way, do you all find the mats get slippery when wet?