I decided to build my coop to hold up to 15 or so heavy layers, so 8 X 12 is what I ended up building. The construction method I used is the same as is used on the prefab sheds you can buy at the lumber companies. I customized mine by making the roof a salt box style, and adding vents and large windows. I saved about $200.00 from what one of those "kits" would have cost, though the foundation added additional cost to the project. I wanted my coop a foot or two off the ground to keep out mice and other varmits, and provide shade for the birds from the hot sun. I built the foundation just like you would a free standing deck using pressure treated lumber for the posts which were set in the ground below the frost line, and joists. (See pictures that follow). Regular 1/2 plywood was used for the floor, and screwed down every 2 foot on center into the 2X6 joists. I then made my frames out of 2 X4's, nailed them in every 2 feet on center then used regular 4X8 sheets of rough sawn siding for the walls, and regular 1/2 inch 4X 8 roofing for the roof.
Note the snow! This is what we Michiganders have to put up with in April!
Note the snow! This is what we Michiganders have to put up with in April!
