10 Easy Steps: Build a Chicken Coop: The Ultimate Guide! for 6 Hens

Build a Chicken Coop ~ This structure is designed to be a robust, stable, and permanent fixture in your backyard.

I. Introduction ~ Build a Chicken Coop

Importance of a Shelter

Hello and welcome to my blog ~ The Chook Chick.

When raising my backyard chickens, I’ve learned that simplicity is key. I don’t claim to work in a fancy or unique way—I simply try to stick with what works for me.

Living on a hilly and windy farm in Victoria has its challenges, and my methods have evolved based on practical experience and actual results.

I want to share the straightforward and practical approach I’ve developed over time. It’s all about addressing my environment’s specific challenges and ensuring my chickens thrive.

Stay tuned for practical insights that have stood the test of twenty years working on my farm.

So, to get started keeping backyard chickens, you will need to build a Chicken Coop, an enclosure that will keep them safe and healthy. I am no expert when it comes to this topic, but I am lucky enough to have a husband who learns and does. In the past few years, he has learned to build a chicken coop and is currently preparing the foundations for a rather nice-sized greenhouse.

Let’s get started!

Building a chicken coop is crucial for backyard chicken keepers, especially to keep their chickens secure and safe.

Ensuring the safety and security of your chickens is of utmost importance for backyard chicken keepers, which makes constructing a chicken coop essential.

How can you effectively build a coop if you’re unsure about the requirements for starting the appropriate questions to ask, especially the ones you’re unaware of yet?

Don’t worry; keep reading, and I will try my best to answer your questions.

A hen house enclosure is a haven or home for your feathered friends. It’s a well-designed coop that protects chickens from harsh weather, like hot summers and chilly winters, ensuring they stay happy and healthy.

Picture a coop not just standing against the elements but thriving within them and looking trendy in your backyard.

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I had this idea in mind, so I had the AI sketch it for me. Well, as you can see, it turned out to be more of a dream than something practical! LOL!

Designed by DALL·E 3

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So, instead, grab this blueprint [Free Chicken Coop Plan for 6 – DIY Plan LINK Here ] and join me in this exciting planning adventure. We will weave together a design, materials, space, and more. The link will take you to another website not affiliated with this blog. It was the only FREE coop design for 6 I could find that was already written up and ready to go. There must be others out there. Let me know if you find a good one.

Let’s build a chicken coop that not only safeguards against the whims of weather and curious predators but also harmonizes with the unique rhythm of your climate and the aesthetic of your environment.

Get ready to turn your vision into a reality as we plan for a cozy, secure home where your chickens will flourish and bring joy.

Benefits of raising chickens at home

Raising chickens at home is truly incredible.

Chickens are:

• Fun
• Provide Fresh Eggs
• Bring joy and laughter
• Great company
• Garden helpers (or destroyers)
• For children: they help teach responsibility
• Teach people compassion (as you must take care of chickens)
• Chickens are eco-friendly, little guys
• They can recycle your kitchen scraps (into eggs and fertilizer for your plants)
• I use my chickens to create potting mix for my indoor and outdoor plants for almost free!

Determine the size and design of the chicken coop.

This example is a shelter for six chickens and no rooster.

Build a Chicken Coop – Key Points:

Building the perfect chicken coop is not easy but simpler than you think. Here are summary steps to guide you before you get started:

To build a chicken coop, find a flat spot in your backyard and sketch your design.

Make sure the cage is cozy, safe, and easy to clean.

You can adapt a pre-drawn plan or create your own.

Choose materials that can withstand the weather in your area.

Ensure that nesting boxes for eggs and roosting bars for the chickens are added.

Remember to install a predator-proof fence to protect your chickens. Based on your needs, you can add any other features you deem necessary.

Finally, create a proper ventilation system to keep your chickens healthy.

With a solid plan, some elbow grease, and a few essential tools, you’ll have a coop that your feathered friends will love to call home.

Size and Design:

If you have the space and budget, aim for at least 2-3 square feet per chicken or more.

Include nesting boxes for laying hens.

Six chickens will need at least two, and more is a luxury.

Provide roosting bars for perching.

The night roost should be set at one level, and only one perch in the night pen for sleeping is higher than the nesting boxes.

This is because chickens have a pecking order. If chickens are relegated to the bottom roost or bottom nest, they are considered lowly and likely to be pecked and bullied.

Also, chickens will choose to go into the nesting boxes if the roost is lower than the nest boxes.

Protection from Elements:

Consider insulation for extreme temperatures.

Ensure proper ventilation but protect from strong winds.

Predator-Proofing:

Use sturdy materials to deter predators. A strong chicken wire or steel mesh is suitable.

Bury wire mesh around and under the coop to prevent predators from digging into the pen.

Accessibility:

It should be designed for easy cleaning and has removable trays and removable roosts.

Include a secure door for human access.

Location:

Choose a flat area, if possible, to ease construction.

Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging.

The enclosure should be on one level, which makes cleaning easier.

Avoid steps or anything you may have to step over. It makes it safer and more accessible for cleaning.

Materials:

Use durable and weather-resistant materials.

Choose a suitable location.

Gather necessary materials and tools.

II. Planning

Determine the size and design of the coop.

When planning, decide on your chicken coop’s size and design parameters. Consider factors like the number of chickens, available space, and climate conditions to create a functional and well-suited coop for your flock.

For six chickens, build a chicken coop where you can allocate 12 to 18 square feet of coop space. This provides ample room for comfort, movement, and roosting. Additionally, factor in the area for nesting boxes and perches, ensuring a well-balanced and spacious environment for your flock.

Choose a suitable location.

Visualize a space where your chickens harmonize with the environment and your family life, and fresh eggs become a daily treasure.

Gather necessary materials and tools.

Let the fun begin!

Preparation Checklist:

Use durable and weather-resistant materials.

Choose a suitable location.

Gather necessary materials and tools.

Materials:

Pressure-treated timber, lumber, or steel for framing.

Exterior-grade plywood/steel for walls and flooring.

Wire mesh for ventilation.

Roofing material (iron, shingles, metal).

Screws and nails for assembly.

Concrete for post-hole stability.

Poultry-safe disinfectant for cleaning.

Tools:

Circular saw for cutting.

Power drill for making holes and attaching screws.

Hammer for nailing

Level to ensure a straight and balanced structure.

Measuring tape for accurate dimensions.

Post hole digger for setting foundation posts.

Safety gear, including gloves and protective eyewear.

Having these materials and tools on hand will streamline the construction process for your chicken coop.

III. Construction ~ Build a Chicken Coop

Add windows and doors.

When constructing a chicken coop, plan for proper ventilation by incorporating open or closed windows depending on the weather conditions and your environment. This will help regulate the temperature and airflow within the pen, making it comfortable for your chickens. When placing the windows, consider cross-ventilation while protecting the chickens from harsh winds. Install windows on the side of the enclosure sheltered from destructive winds and ensure they are adjustable to regulate airflow based on weather conditions.

In addition to ventilation, doors are necessary for easy access and maintenance. Choose sturdy materials for both windows and doors to withstand the elements. Start with a sturdy frame and durable wire mesh to ensure security and protection from predators. When it comes to doors, make sure they are wide enough for easy access for cleaning and maintenance. Consider a double-door system to prevent escapes when entering or exiting. Install latches and locks to keep the coop secure.

Choose materials like polycarbonate or wire mesh for windows to allow light in while maintaining durability and safety. Ensure proper insulation for colder months. When designing and building the pen, prioritize your chickens’ safety, comfort, and easy management. Implementing these features will create a comfortable and safe environment for your chickens and make your daily tasks more manageable.

Build the foundation and frame.

Once you have selected the site to build, start the foundation and frame to build a chicken coop to accommodate six chickens. Ensure there is adequate water drainage. Use pressure-treated timber or preferably steel for durability against weather, termites, or whatever pests live in your area. Begin with a rectangular frame measuring approximately 6 feet by 8 feet for ample space. Dig post holes at each corner and insert treated wooden or steel posts, securing them with concrete for stability.

Attach horizontal beams to the posts, forming the base frame. Add additional support beams across the middle for added strength. For the flooring, use exterior-grade plywood, securing it to the frame with screws. This solid foundation provides stability and protection for your coop.

Install walls and roof.

When constructing the walls, use plywood or framing lumber/timber/steel, ensuring proper insulation for temperature control. Remember to leave space for windows and doors. Following these steps, you’ll establish a robust foundation and frame, setting the groundwork for a secure and comfortable home for your six chickens.

Continuing with construction, install the walls by attaching plywood or framing timber or steel to the exterior of the frame. Ensure the walls are securely anchored to provide stability. Based on your planned design, leave spaces for windows and doors and cut openings accordingly.

Cover the top with exterior-grade plywood or a similar durable material. Ensure it overhangs the edges slightly to shield the walls from rain. Consider adding roofing felt for extra weather protection. Attach shingles or metal roofing material securely, allowing for proper drainage. This safeguards your coop from the elements, providing a dry and comfortable space for your chickens.

Follow these steps to complete the walls and roof, creating a well-ventilated and weather-resistant chicken coop for your flock of six.

Install perches and nesting boxes.

For perches, you will need to use wood. Use the wood to make single-level perches to prevent pecking or bullying among the flock. Choose wooden perches that comfort the chickens’ feet, allowing them to grip the wood securely. Use 50 x 25mm square length for full-sized chickens, not round perches. Adjust smaller for bantam hens. This ensures a safe and comfortable roosting spot for your flock.

Further information regarding nest boxes: Follow similar rules as mentioned above—keep one line of nest boxes at one level to prevent bullying. Keeping the boxes at the same level helps to avoid any dominance issues. Use manufactured roll-away nest boxes equipped with plastic nesting mats (sold separately). If you prefer to build your own, use plastic or steel for easy cleaning, not wood, as this can attract mites and mold.

Lastly, it’s essential to regularly clean and inspect the nest boxes to maintain a healthy living environment for your chickens.

Add finishing touches.

Now for the gratifying part. Adding finishing touches to your chicken coop is the fun part. You are adding that final step that makes everything come together.

Here are Some Practical and Fun Tips:

Cozy Comfortable Bedding Options: While it may seem adorable and fun, providing cozy nesting materials is unnecessary and can harm your birds. Avoid using cheap options like hay, straw, or shredded paper, as they can attract mites, pests, and mold, causing discomfort for your chickens. Instead, use manufactured mats, ensuring a comfortable environment for your chickens. Despite our perception, it’s like providing fluffy pillows for their eggs!

If you really must have bedding and comfort, which is nice, another option is Hemp Bedding.

Extra Decor: This is not crucial, but chickens appreciate additional perches or roosting bars, but not in the sleeping area. Only have the one-level roost for the night sleeping area. During the day, use part of the pen to provide extra drinkers, food sources, or roosts. Your chickens will love you for it. It’s like creating a playground for them. They’ll love it!

Easy Access Doors: Make sure your coop has doors that swing open easily. This way, you can get in and out without chicken escape dramas.

Ventilation Windows: Install windows or vents to let in fresh air. And let out the dander and feather dust that builds from chickens’ molting. The vents are giving your chickens a breath of fresh air – literally!

Egg Collecting Basket: Have a dedicated basket or container for collecting eggs. Get into the habit of using this basket efficiently and effectively every day. Please keep it in one place so you will always know exactly where it is when needed. It’s practical and makes egg collecting easy.

Attractive Exterior: Paint your coop in bright colors. Not only does it look cheerful, but it also helps your pen stand out in the backyard.

Nameplate: Give your coop a name and hang a cute nameplate. It’s like officially welcoming your chickens to their new home.

IV. Maintenance

Regular cleaning and disinfecting.

To maintain your new chicken coop, regularly clean and disinfect the interior, removing any bedding, droppings, or debris. Wipe surfaces and apply a poultry-safe disinfectant to ensure a clean environment.

It is recommended that dropping boards be installed and a bucket be carried. Droppings are valuable materials for composting, so they should be removed using a painter’s scraper and deposited into your compost.

Feeding and watering chickens.

Monitor and refill feeding and watering stations daily to keep your chickens healthy.

Protecting against predators.

To protect against predators, reinforce coop security with sturdy locks, regularly inspect the perimeter for vulnerabilities, and consider motion-activated lighting as a deterrent.

V. Conclusion ~ Build a Chicken Coop

Enjoy the benefits of a well-built chicken coop.

A top-notch chicken coop is like a five-star hotel for your chickens. It keeps them cozy in chilly weather and cool during scorching days. With a well-designed enclosure, you will collect fresh eggs like a pro. Plus, it shields your chickens from sneaky predators. It’s not only a shelter; it’s a VIP retreat for your feathered companions.

Encouragement to start building a coop today.

Are you ready to embark on the ultimate DIY adventure?

Build a Chicken Coop for a sense of achievement. A chicken coop might not seem like a big deal, but trust me, it’s a game-changer.

Picture your flock of happy chickens, providing fresh eggs and endless entertainment.

Starting today means you’re one step closer to creating a feathered paradise in your backyard.

So, grab those tools, and let’s build a chicken coop to turn your poultry dreams into reality today.