How To Build A Chicken Coop That Will Withstand Time

There are several different factors that determine how long your home-made chicken coop will last. To make the most out of your money and effort, pick only high quality chicken coop plans to build from and keep the following tips in mind.

Depending on where you have planned on building a chicken coop, you will either have a location that is already landscaped, or you will have to landscape the area first. What you will need is a level ground that properly supports your chicken coop. If you are doing this right in the beginning, your chicken coop will last a lot longer and as such be a lot more cost effective than if you save on landscaping the area before you build.

For some situations building a portable chicken coop may be of advantage to you. In any case, only use quality chicken coop plans when you learn how to build a chicken coop, no matter if portable or static.

Learn what materials are cost effective and at the same time withstand the weather. When you learn how to build a chicken coop you will save a lot of money. However, take the suggestions serious and don't save too much on the coop's foundation. A quality structural base will give your chicken coop the strength to last a lot longer and save you even more money and effort in return.

Windows are an important part when you learn how to build a chicken coop. They are necessary to provide your chickens with the much needed sunlight. If your chickens do not get enough natural sunlight the egg production will definitely suffer. It is mandatory though for you to understand where to place windows in your construction to ensure that the coop itself stays sturdy. Again, a good quality chicken coop plan will show you how to properly place windows for the best results.

The position and design of the feeders is also something you should keep in mind. Besides the fact that you need to allot enough space, how high or low they are positioned will have an effect on how durable your chicken coop is. If the feeder is not easy to reach for your chickens, food may eventually get scattered on the floor.

Besides the space allowed for the feeders and waterer you will need to calculate a minimum of 3 square feet per chicken. More space is always better, but never go below 3 feet. This is often a mistake people make when they are learning how to make a chicken coop. When you miscalculate your chicken's living space egg production will suffer.

Don't break out the hammer and nails until you've fully informed yourself on what to expect when raising chickens. It is very important to choose the proper building plans that suit your location and needs.

Raising chickens is a fun and rewarding activity, get the full scoop by visit my website: http://build-a-chicken-coop.iqbanq.com/

The Four Crucial Steps to Build a Chicken Coop

When you learn how to build a chicken coop there are four main elements you will want to keep in mind. In this article we will explore these and other important aspects of building a chicken coop, and when you're through you will be ready to take things to the next stage, getting the plans (a crucial element) and breaking out the toolbox.

Before we go any further we need to decide how big we are going to make the coop. Miss judging the size of the coop is generally a beginner's mistake so we will want to go into more detail about this part of raising chickens. From there you will be able to choose a style that you will be happy with and more importantly fits the location you have chosen for it.

When you have a better understanding of the first two steps you will be ready to tackle Step 3. Building a chicken coop isn't hard but you will want to look at building both a safe and health coop. More on that in a moment.

In the last step we will learn about building an visually pleasing chicken coop. But you may be surprised when you find out how important this step really is.

I can already hear some of you breaking out the toolbox, so I had better get started!

Step 1 – Size, How Many Chickens Do You Want?

You may be thinking that this is an understood part of building a chicken coop. You know where you want to put the chicken coop and you know how many chickens you want, isn't that enough? If you've guessed that the answer is no you're correct. Just because you have a spot picked out, that doesn't mean it is the most ideal. You may run into trouble if your desired hen house doesn't match the number of chickens you plan to get.

Every chicken that you plan on keeping needs at least 3 sq. ft. of room in the coop. As you can see, this will directly influence how many chickens you can hold, and where you can build your coop.

It isn't any wonder that a crowded coop is a chaotic coop. Hens that are forced to spend their time fighting over room will be less likely to lay eggs. And the eggs that they do lay will leave something to be desired. Since this is the reason, most people build chicken coops, it will waste both the money and time you've invested. So now you are in the perfect position, you can now decide how many chickens you really want to house and build the appropriate coop.

In the event that there is too much room in the coop later you always have the options to add another hen or two.

Step 2 – Chicken Coops - Which One Is Right For You?

You might already know this but let's say this for those who don't know. But there are two designs of chicken coops to pick from. The first style we'll talk about is a portable one, which is often referred to as a chicken tractor. The next one we'll talk about is the fixed or static chicken coop. This one is built to last but it also has it draw backs. Lets explore these two types of chicken coop and find out which one works the best for you.

First we'll look at the portable ones. Portable chicken coops have several advantages over the fixed versions, let's take a look and see what those are. Maintaining the chicken coop can be much easier when it is portable. And this has to be the biggest benefit of the chicken tractor Instead of bringing the tools to the coop, you can bring the coop to your tools. Cleaning the coop is also a snap when you can move it wherever you want.

However, there is a downside to building a portable chicken coop and we will need to look at that, too. Don't build a portable chicken coop and think that it will last forever, it won't. Portable chicken coops are not nearly as stable as their fixed counterpart.

Strength and security is the major advantage a fixed chicken coop has over the portable versions. Now it is very important to point out that you need to have a clear idea where you will be building this type of chicken coop. Once it is finished, moving it will be a very time consuming process.

Here are a couple of tips for you when you build a static chicken coop. First, chickens need a lot of sunlight. Make sure to build the chicken coop so that it gets as much sun as it can each day. That doesn't mean you should put the coop in the middle of a field. If you have strong storms in your area you will need to build your chicken coop under a couple of trees or parallel to a bigger building.

Another thing to keep in mind when you build a fixed hen house is that it shouldn't be built on low ground. Always build the hen house on the higher parts of your yard. Strong storms may cause your chicken coop to flood. If this happens, you'll learn what the expression “madder than a wet hen” means.

Step 3 – Keeping Your Birds Safe

One of the most important aspects of learning how to build a chicken coop is keeping your birds safe.

Chickens can have a way of drawing predators, and unless you are careful you may find you're chickens have been eaten. This can be anything from the neighborhood cats and dogs to less likely threats such as rats. If you live in the country, you may also be at risk of attracting larger predators.

These can include the likes of: foxes, coyotes, and badgers. You will want to assure that you use strong enough fencing to keep the more determined wild animals out. You will also want to bury your fence deep enough underground. Some animals will try very hard to dig their way into your chicken coop, make sure that doesn't happen!

Don't forget the threat from above. Hawks will also prey upon chickens, to keep this from happening you can cover the run with more fencing or with a roof.

Step 4 – Don't Neglect Your Coops Appearance

When you learn to build a chicken coop you are building a fun family project. One that will provide you with many fun memories and experiences. But it should also be more.

A well built chicken coop should be both healthy and comfortable for your chickens but also look nice. No one is fond of an eyesore, forcing you neighbors to live with one is both rude and risky. Wouldn't you rather get their compliments that be the reason for their complaints?

This would be a shame, since a chicken coop can add a unique element to your yard's landscaping. One that will have your neighbors talking for all of the right reason, and your family supplied with fresh eggs every morning for breakfast.

If you build your chicken coop in the city, you will want to check your city ordnances for any that regulate if and how you can build your coop.

So get your plans and get started today!
Click Here to Get Chicken Coop Plans Today!

Building a Chicken Coop - Use Durable But Cost-Effective Materials

Building a chicken coop made out of wood may not be the absolute cheapest solution, but it will most likely pay off providing you with a coop that features a longer life expectancy and enhanced durability. If you are very tight on money, you may want to look for scrap wood. Smaller chicken coops may also be built from recycled timber.

If you are looking at building a chicken coop out of scrap wood, you may not be able to find the fitting pieces of wood. It is also quite likely that you will have to pull some nails. If you can't find the fitting pieces of wood when building a chicken coop, may have to make compromises in the construction. In that case you will have to make the decision what is more important to you, a certain kind of design or the the limit of your budget. However you decide, make sure to pick the fitting construction plan. If you can't afford to build a large coop, you will need to cut back on the number of chickens your coop is supposed to house.

In any case, if you look carefully for potential building material, you can save a lot of money when you are building a chicken coop. It is always better to build a durable coop and go with a smaller sized housing than using poor quality material for a larger building.

It is important to remember that each chicken needs at least 3-4 square feet inside the coop. Make sure you build your chicken coop with this in mind. If you squeeze too many chickens into a cramped chicken coop you will be forcing the hens to fight over brooding space.

The cost of building a chicken coop also comes down to the climate in your area. Cooler, rainier areas will require more insulation than warmer climates. On the other hand, hot weather calls for more windows to provide the necessary ventilation in your chicken coop. Good chicken coop plans will give you a clear idea on what is needed to keep your chickens healthy.

Also don't go too cheap when you pick out the material for the coop's foundation. The stronger your chicken coop's base, the more durable the overall structure will be. In the end it's a win-win situation for both you and your chickens. By picking the right material, you invest in a long term coop that can withstand the weather, which will result in happier and healthier chickens. Which means more eggs!

The plans make all of the difference in building a functioning chicken coop, so make sure to use plans that work. Get chicken coop plans here or visit my website for more information: http://build-a-chicken-coop.iqbanq.com/

Chicken Coop Construction and Plans

Do you know what these four important steps are? We will cover them in this article, and when you're completed you will be ready to move onto the next step, getting the plans (a crucial element) and getting out the power tools.

First, you will want to make it clear in your mind how big you want to make your chicken coop. Miss judging the size of the coop is generally a beginner's mistake so we will want to go into more detail about this part of raising chickens. After that you will be able to choose a style that you will be happy with and more importantly fits the location you have chosen for it.

When you have a better understanding of the first two steps you will be ready to tackle Step 3. Building a chicken coop isn't hard but you will want to look at building both a healthy and safe chicken coop, which protects your hens from both predators and the elements. Safety is important and something you won't want to neglect. Step 3 goes into more detail about covering this part of building a chicken coop.

The final step will cover the importance of building an aesthetically pleasing chicken coop construction. But you may be surprised when you find out how important this step really is.

Some of you may already be itching to break out the power tools, so I had better get started!

You may think that this is a given, that anyone building a chicken coop with know this without question. The reason is simple... You know where you want to place the hen house, and you know how many chickens you want to hold, is that not enough? If you've guessed that the answer is no you're correct. Even if you already have a location in your yard picked out, this doesn't mean it is a match made in heaven. You may run into trouble if your desired hen house doesn't match the number of chickens you plan to get.

Each chicken requires at least 3 square feet of room inside of the chicken coop. As you can see, this will directly influence how many chickens you can hold, and where you can build your coop.

It isn't any wonder that a crowded coop is a chaotic coop. Hens that are forced to spend their time fighting over room will be less likely to lay eggs. And the eggs that they do lay will leave something to be desired. If you build a chicken coop don't waste your time and money trying to squeeze the most hens into the smallest space. Make sure your chickens have the space they deserve. So now you are in the perfect position, you can now decide how many chickens you really want to house and build the appropriate coop.

In the event that there is too much room in the coop later you always have the options to add another hen or two.

You might already know this but let's say this for those who don't know. But there are two types of chicken coop constructions to pick from. The first is portable, and is often referred to as a chicken tractor. The other type of chicken coop construction is fixed to the ground, this makes finding the proper location absolutely crucial. Let's look at the two types and you can get a better idea of what best suits your needs.

To get started we will take a few minutes and learn more about the chicken tractors. As you might have already guessed there are a couple of different benefits to building a portable chicken coop. Since you can move the coop around, maintenance is much easier. Instead of bringing the tools to the coop, you can bring the coop to your tools. Cleaning the coop is also easier with portable hen houses.

But there is a downside, and we need to cover that as well. Chicken tractors aren't built to last a long time so don't get your hopes up when it is finished. It should be clear that you will have to preform a lot of maintenance, and eventually completely replace your coop, if you choose mobility rather than stability. Chicken tractors are not constructed as rigidly as the fixed version, and it is only to be expected that transportation and movement will take its toll.

Fixed or static hen houses are much more stable than the portable ones, and a well built coop can last for many years. Planing is a big part of building a fixed chicken coop, so choose wisely. Once you have your chicken coop fixed to the ground it will be a nightmare if you ever need to move it to a new location.

Here are some things to consider when you build a static roost. First, chickens need a lot of sunlight. Make sure to build the chicken coop so that it gets as much sun as it can each day. That doesn't mean you should put the coop in the middle of a field. If you have strong storms in your area you will need to build your chicken coop under a couple of trees or parallel to a bigger building.

A beginner's mistake, especially if this is the first chicken coop construction you've undertaken, is placing it on a low spot in your yard. Always build the hen house on the higher parts of your yard. If you get strong storms, your chicken coop could become flooded. If this happens, you'll learn what the expression “madder than a wet hen” means.

Predators will know when you have chickens, and that is regardless if you've learned how to build a chicken coop properly, or not.

You will find out just how many animals will be more than happy to prey upon your chickens if you're now cautious. Even though Spot is the nicest dog in the world, and the cat next door doesn't look like a cold blooded killed they can be a potential threat to your chickens. But they aren't the only danger, there are less likely threats such as rats. Of course rats are one of the smaller threats, if you live in the country you might also have to contend with larger predators.

These can include foxes, coyotes and badgers. You will want to assure that you use strong enough fencing to keep the more determined wild animals out. Make sure to bury your fence deep enough in the ground to keep out animals that try to dig their way into the coop.

Just like the danger from below there can also be a threat from above. Hawks will also prey upon chickens, so it might be necessary to cover your chicken's run with a roof or fencing.

When you learn to build a chicken coop you are building a fun family project. One that will provide you with many fun memories and experiences. But it should also be more.

A well built chicken coop should be both healthy and comfortable for your chickens but also look nice. No one is fond of an eyesore, forcing you neighbors to live with one is both rude and risky. Wouldn't you rather get their compliments that be the reason for their complaints?

This would be a shame, since a chicken coop construction can add a unique element to your yard's landscaping. One that will have your neighbors talking for all of the right reason, and your family supplied with fresh eggs every morning for breakfast.

Besides the fact you don't want to look at a mess chicken coop you might also have to contend with city ordnances. These ordnances might play a direct role in how your chicken coop can look.

Building a Chicken Coop - Find the Right Location

Besides the actual chicken coop plans, finding the right location for your coop will determine whether you and your chickens will be happy with your chicken coop efforts. Building your chicken coop in the right location and position leads to happier, healthier chickens and results in them laying more eggs.

Find a well protected area in your yard. This depends on how large your yard is after all. If you have a lot of space, you may want to consider building a chicken coop where you can easily have an eye on it. You can also build a portable chicken coop if that is more convenient to you.

Think about what predators there are in your area. That includes domestic predators such as your neighbors' cats or dogs. Wild predators will often include raccoons, foxes, badgers and rats. But don't forget the treats from the air. Hawks can also pose a danger to your poultry. If you know that there are hawks in your area you will want to consider building a covered run. If the plans you pick don't include a covered run you may have to modify them to your needs.

Additionally, picking the right fence to go with your home-made chicken coop will be a major asset in protecting your chickens. If there are a lot of predators that may dig their way underneath, you will have to build your coop far enough into the ground to deter the strongest-willed predator.

Another thing to think about when building a chicken coop is that your chickens require a great deal of sunlight. Make sure to position it so that it faces the sun as long as possible during the day. Building a chicken coop in overly shadowy areas is not such a good idea. If your chickens don't get a lot of sunlight, you will have to install electrical lighting, which is not very cost effective.

While your coop should be well ventilated, it should not be too windy either. So if you live in a very windy area, consider building the chicken coop close to the house or a group of trees that break the wind a bit. The same is true for very rainy climates. If you get a lot of rain, position your chicken coop so that it is as much protected as possible. Also you don't want to build the coop so that rain can flow down and flood the coop.

Build a Backyard Chicken Coop - Step 4

Step 4 – Don't Neglect Your Coops Appearance

When you learn to build backyard a chicken coop you are building a fun family project. One that will provide you with many fun memories and experiences. But it should also be more.

A backyard chicken coop is more than simply a comfortable safe home for your chickens. It should also add an element to your yard that few others share. That means you should take the time and make it also look nice. Even if you think the chicken coop you've built is the cutest thing you've ever seen take a step back, what would other people say? Many people, especially when they've learned how to build a chicken coop for the first time, are blind to how their coop really looks. Is the coop really as nice as you think?

This would be a shame, since a chicken coop can add a unique element to your yard's landscaping. And this is one piece of landscaping that will get you neighbors talking for all of the right reasons. They will also be envious over all of the fresh eggs you get to enjoy!

When you live in the city and build a chicken coop the looks might even be a must. Many cities have ordnances dictating how you may build your coop. And the number of birds you may hold.

Build a Backyard Chicken Coop - Step 3

Better Safe Than Sorry

One of the most important aspects of learning how to build a chicken coop is keeping your birds safe.

There are many different types of predators that will prey upon your hens if you aren't careful. This can be anything from the neighborhood cats and dogs to less likely threats such as rats. Of course rats are one of the smaller threats, if you live in the country you might also have to contend with larger predators.


These can include foxes, coyotes and badgers. The fencing you use plays a big part in how safe your chicken coop is. Don't use too weak of fencing or you will have to pay a big price later. Make sure to bury your fence deep enough in the ground to keep out animals that try to dig their way into the coop.

Don't forget the threat from above. Hawks will also prey upon chickens, to keep this from happening you can cover the run with more fencing or with a roof.

Build a Backyard Chicken Coop - Step 2

The Two Styles Of Chicken Coop

You might already know this but let's say this for those who don't know. But there are two designs of chicken coops to pick from. The first is portable, and is often referred to as a chicken tractor. The other is fixed and is usually built to hold more chickens. Lets explore these two types of chicken coop and find out which one works the best for you.

To get started we will take a few minutes and learn more about the chicken tractors. As you might have already guessed there are a couple of different benefits to building a portable backyard chicken coop. Since you can move the coop around, maintenance is much easier. Instead of bringing the tools to the coop, you can bring the coop to your tools. Cleaning the coop is also a snap when you can move it wherever you want.

But there is a downside, and we need to cover that as well. Chicken tractors aren't built to last a long time so don't get your hopes up when it is finished. It should be clear that you will have to preform a lot of maintenance, and eventually completely replace your coop, if you choose mobility rather than stability. Chicken tractors are not constructed as rigidly as the fixed version, and it is only to be expected that transportation and movement will take its toll.

The fixed, or sometimes referred to as static chicken coop are more stable than their movable counterparts. And can last for many years with regular maintenance. Planing is a big part of building a fixed chicken coop for your backyard, so choose wisely. Once it is finished, moving it will be a very time consuming process.

Here are a couple of tips for you when you build a static chicken coop. The first thing is that sunlight is very important to your chicken's health and happiness. Be sure to position your chicken coop so that it gets the most sunlight possible each day. With that said I should also mention you have to position the coop so it gets the most protection it can from the elements. Strong rain or wind can be a problem, that's why it is a good idea to build your coop under a group of trees or next to a larger building.

One more thing to remember when you are learning how to build backyard a chicken coop is never place it on low ground. I always recommend that you build the chicken coop on the highest spot in your yard. That way you can (usually) rest assured that you hens will stay dry. When not placed on high ground you run the risk of having your chicken coop flood. If this happens, you'll learn what the expression “madder than a wet hen” means.

An Egg a Day – How To Build a Chicken Coop

Do you know how rewarding it is to raise chickens? It's true, holding chickens in your backyard, either on a farm or in the city, can be very relaxing. And these pets have the added benefit of giving you a tasty treat for your breakfast table.

But what is required to raise chickens? If you are just starting out, it is important to learn how to build a chicken coop. As you can easily guess, doing it the wrong way will be a torture for the chickens and make the entire experience disastrous.

When done correctly though, building your own chicken coop can be cheaper, healthier and a lot more satisfying.

The first question you should ask yourself is how many birds do you plan to raise. This will be directly connected to the size of the chicken coop you're going to need to build.

Just remember that you will need to give each of your chickens at least 3 square feet of space to live comfortably with the other chickens in the colony. More space is always better, and if you happen to build too big of a chicken coop, you can always add more birds.

Want a tip that will make your job of cleaning the coop easier? You should put tiles down on the floor. Also by slanting the floor so it tilts slightly towards the door you are making it easier when you spray it clean. This will allow the water to run out the door. These are two things that high quality chicken coop plans will share with you, but not all of them do.

Just like your home, the chicken coop needs to be properly protected from unwanted intruders. These predators will be more than happy to take advantage of weak fencing or other Achilles heals.

Don't underestimate the dogs and cats in your neighborhood, they can be a threat to the safety of your chickens. But your chickens can also be at risk of being attacked by other animals. Rats can also pose a threat to your chickens, but so can foxes and coyotes, and depending on your location badgers might be a problem.

Take the predatory animals you have in your specific area and factor them in when you build the chicken coop.

Lastly, the importance of your chicken coops appearance cannot be over looked. A chicken coop can be a wonderful addition to almost any yard, when well built it will add an optical element that will wow family and friends. But if you fail to properly take the time to follow well written plans, or let the finishing touches fall on the wayside... You're running the risk of giving your neighbors an excuse to complain.

Chicken coops can be a fun and exciting way for you to enjoy a fresh egg every morning, but if they aren't handled properly they can turn into an eye sore. Just remember to put yourself in the shoes of those that live around you and ask yourself if you would like the coop. If the answer is no, then go over it and make any corrections.

Now that you know what is required for you to build a chicken coop, there is one final step. This is getting the plans and the materials. This is the exciting part, and one that anyone can handle no matter their experience level with the toolbox.

Read more on the subject here.