The whimsy and wholesomeness of keeping chickens at home is something that many people dream of. Whether you’re doing it for the eggs or the charm of having feathered friends clucking around your back garden, it’s a lifestyle that starts with one essential task, learning how to build a chicken coop. What’s not to love?!
The most important part of keeping chickens? Giving them a proper home to thrive in. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your current setup, a well-thought-out chicken coop makes all the difference. It’s not just a spot for them to wander around – it’s where they eat, sleep, lay their eggs, and spend time together. Think of it as their little sanctuary. Warm, cosy, safe, and full of everything they need to live their best chicken lives.
In this guide, let’s discuss how to build the perfect chicken coop that meets all your flock’s needs.
Why build your own chicken coop?
Of course, you could just buy a chicken coop online. Why spend the time and effort building one? Firstly, it’s a fun DIY project – especially if you can get the family involved. Step one to teaching kids how to care for a new pet is creating the perfect environment for them to live in.
There’s something really satisfying about building something with your own two hands. When that something becomes a cosy little home for your hens, it’s even better. You have full control over the size, layout and style, which makes it easy to design with your garden space in mind and tailor it to your flock’s individual needs. This isn’t always possible with pre-made options.
It’s also cheaper to do it yourself in most cases, especially if you already have a few tools or leftover material lying around.
Planning your chicken coop
Firstly, decide how many chickens are going to live in your chicken coop. Allow around two to three square feet per chicken inside and at least eight to ten square feet per chicken in the outdoor run. This should allow you to design the space a little easier.
Next, think about location. Choose a dry location in your space that’s well-drained with some shade to keep the chickens comfortable in different weather conditions and that is sheltered from strong winds in the winter.
Lastly, don’t forget to check if there are any local rules or restrictions about keeping chickens where you live. Some councils or housing associations have guidelines in place, so it’s best to be in the know before you get started. Once you’ve got the basics sorted – flock size, location, and any red tape – you’re all set to start designing a coop your chickens will love.
Essential additions
Once you’ve picked the perfect spot for your coop, it’s time to think about the must-haves inside. Nesting boxes are where your hens will lay their eggs, so you’ll want to include one for every three or four chickens. Line them with something soft like straw or wood shavings to keep things cosy and inviting – happy hens lay happy eggs!
Chickens also like to sleep up high, so make sure to add some roosting bars inside the coop. These can be simple wooden poles or platforms for them to perch on at night. Aim for around 10 to 12 inches of space per chicken so they’re not squished together. It helps them feel secure and gives them a good night’s rest.
Ventilation is really important too – it keeps the air flowing, reduces moisture, and helps prevent health issues. And don’t forget about safety! Sturdy fencing, latches, and a secure door will help keep any unwanted visitors out. Local country supplies stores usually have a good selection of the materials you’ll need.
Start building!
Now for the fun and probably most challenging part – building the chicken coop. Start by building the frame and the flooring. This will be the foundation of the coop so ensure it’s sturdy and level. Once the base is in place, you can start building the walls using wooden panels or planks. Don’t forget to leave space for any doors, windows or ventilation gaps.
Next up, the roof. A key component in keeping your chickens dry and comfortable! A slanted roof is always a good idea as it allows rain to run off easily. At this point, you can add in the internal elements such as roosting bars, nesting boxes and feeders. If you’re adding a run, secure it with strong chicken wire or mesh. I recommend burning it a little into the ground to stop any pests from digging their way in!
Helping your chickens settle in
Once your coop is all set up and looking lovely, it’s time to welcome your chickens to their new digs. Before you open the door, do one last check for any gaps or wobbly bits, and make sure their food and water are topped up and easy to reach.
Chickens are usually much calmer in the evening, so popping them into the coop at dusk tends to go smoothly. Keeping them inside for the first day or two (without access to the run) helps them get used to their new space and understand it’s home sweet home.
Most hens will settle in quickly, but don’t worry if they seem a little out of sorts at first. If you notice them hiding, not eating, or getting a bit pecky with each other, a few fun distractions – like hanging veg, extra perches, or even a swing – can work wonders. A little patience goes a long way!
Building your own chicken coop is a hugely rewarding job. With a bit of planning (and a cuppa nearby!) it’s a project that’s totally achievable and something the whole family can get involved in. The best bit? It results in a cosy home for a flock of chickens!
So, roll up your sleeves, take it one step at a time and enjoy the process. Your future feathered friends will be clucking with approval in no time!
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