Before you can start building your coop, you’ll need to choose a site and plan the layout of your flock’s home. The coop and run should be about four square feet each, and a chicken’s coop should be at least five square feet. The coop and run will be the hens’ primary residence and they should share an outdoor space with the hens. Once you’ve made the decision on the location and the layout of your chook’s home, you’ll need to choose the corresponding bedding.
Next, decide on the size of the coop. The size should be around four feet by eight feet, six feet by twelve feet, or eight feet by sixteen feet. The front and back posts should be at least eight inches tall. The roof and gate will be about eight feet high. Make sure you mark the plywood for each cut. If you’re going to be adding windows, you’ll need to measure and cut the panels accordingly.
A coop must have a sturdy base structure so that predators can’t get in. You can also use electrical net fencing to prevent foxes from getting into the coop. You’ll need a sturdy floor to protect the chickens from damage. Once the chickens start pecking at the floor, you’ll have a beautiful, clean coop to enjoy with your flock. You’ll want to keep the poop from ruining your new coop!
The walls and roof of your coop can be built using plywood and 2-by-4s. The roof can be corrugated sheet metal or plywood covered with shingles. You can consult a lumber yard employee to find the correct amount of plywood and to make major cuts. When you’ve measured the plywood and marked it for each cut, you can begin to cut the coop and prepare for construction. Once you’ve finished, you can move on to the next step!
The roof is the most important part of the coop, and should be as large as possible. If the coop is too small, the hens will become crowded and will likely scratch each other. For a healthy environment, you’ll want to create a raised chicken coop. A hen coop with a floor and a run can help prevent this. In addition to a floor, the coop should have two sides and one entrance panel.
The coop should be sturdy and have ventilation. This will help prevent frostbite and will keep the chickens comfortable. It is also important to have plenty of natural light for your chickens to lay their eggs. They need natural light to go to the bathroom and sleep. They also need it to know when to go out to roam. So, make sure the space is warm and dry. It will keep your coop and your chickens happy.