The Ultimate Guide on How to Make the Best Chicken Coop Plans

Introduction

Keeping chickens is a rewarding experience for many avid gardeners and farmers. Not only do they provide fresh eggs, but they can also be pets that keep pests away from plants. However, one key factor to consider before starting to raise chickens is a proper place for them to rest, lay eggs, and move around freely. Building a chicken coop is the best way to keep the chickens safe and healthy. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make the best chicken coop plans.

Step 1: Determine the Right Size

Before starting the construction process, you need to determine how many chickens you want to keep. This way, you can allocate the correct amount of space for each chicken. As a rule of thumb, each chicken requires approximately 3-4 square feet of space inside the coop and 8-10 square feet of space outside in the run area. So, if you plan to keep six chickens, you will require a minimum of 18-24 square feet inside the coop. You also need to ensure that the height of the coop is adequate for the chickens to move around comfortably and the coop and run area is protected from predators.

Step 2: Gather Your Materials

Once you have determined the required size of the coop, you need to gather all necessary materials. You can either use reclaimed materials or purchase new ones from a local hardware store. Here are some of the essential components you need:

• Lumber (2x4s and 2x3s)
• Plywood
• Hardware cloth or chicken wire
• Screws and nails
• Roofing material
• Door and hinges
• Nesting boxes
• Perches
• Feeder and waterer

Step 3: Plan the Coop Design

After gathering all materials, you can start planning the coop design. It's essential to create a detailed plan before starting the construction process. The plan should have precise measurements, floor plans, and a list of materials required for construction. You can either create a plan by using a pen and paper or use one of the many software applications available online. Some popular software applications are Sketchup, Fusion 360, and Sweet Home 3D.

Step 4: Build the Coop

Now that you have the plan and the materials, it's time to start the construction process. Here are the general steps to follow when building a chicken coop:

• Build the base of the coop
• Install the walls and roof
• Add the doors and windows
• Install the nesting boxes, perches, feeder and waterer
• Add bedding and litter to the coop
• Create a run area for the chickens

Step 5: Final Touches

Once you have completed all the construction work and your chicken coop is ready, it's time to add some final touches. Here are some things to consider:

• Add roofing material to the top of the coop
• Add weatherproof paint or stain to the coop
• Install lighting and ventilation in the coop
• Add some landscaping around the coop

Conclusion

Building a chicken coop is not a complicated process, but it requires some planning and effort. Follow this guide, and you will have no trouble building a robust and well-designed chicken coop that will keep your chickens happy and productive. Remember, providing the chicken with a safe and stress-free environment is crucial for their overall well-being, and enjoying fresh eggs from your backyard is just another reward for your hard work.