What Should the Top Backyard Chicken Coop Plans Include?

Posted in Coop Construction on May 4th, 2012 by Thomas — Be the first to comment!
cool diy chicken house I saw the other day

DIY chicken house I saw the other day.

It seems that more and more homeowners want to raise chickens for eggs and because of this, they will also need to consider some very high quality coops for their hens.

Hence, they will have to consider chicken coop plans which are adapted to the type of chicken they’d like to raise and not only allow them to live comfortably, but also ensure proper security from predators and against the weather.

Basically, the chicken plans are based on the number and type of chickens to be raised, while the chicken numbers are influenced by the number of eggs needed and space limitations.

Building a coop

It’s actually simple to make a coop. Thus, you can make the framework out of chicken wire, concrete blocks and recycled wood. If you go with a wooden plank floor, it will be very easy to clean, but never consider using wood with cracks or knot holes.

As for the chicken run, you can consider building a fenced one, while a wire roof will improve the security of the coop. On the other hand, even if you build a secured coop, predators can always find ways to enter it. That is why you should bury chicken wire underground at the wall’s base and the run.

Ventilation

Coops also need to be properly ventilated so you will need to build a good roof that will not allow water to seep in. If conditions are damp, fungal and bacteria diseases will be encouraged.

Next, you will have to build a nest box for each of your chickens and you can determine the box size according to the size of the chickens you will want to raise. Also, the garden coop needs to be built as tall as you and the door needs to be built in order to be closed easily behind you.

Other Amenities

Wiring the coop for electricity is very useful when you want to quickly check for noises at night. More to that light will affect egg laying and will provide warmth for the coop. Last but not least, use heating elements to keep the water safe from freezing during wintertime.