I started to run out of room inside for my chicks, so they needed to be safe. So I built this broader and grow out box until I they are big enough to be integrated with the flock.
I first draw up a rough draft for the base, then used a crate that an auger came in with added support. Here is my rough draft.
Then I sat the crate in the frame to begin working on it. Added more 1"X4"s to the front, back and ends as shown in the pictures. Then measured the inside and cut 1/2" plywood for the ends, back and bottom and placed them on the inside the crate and screwed them down. I put 1/2" hardware cloth across the front. Then using 1"X2"s to make the frames for the two tops, I made a split top because one solid lid was to heavy for me to lift and it makes it easier to clean. I put a 1"X4" attached to one side to keep water out (the side I use on a daily bases) I also have a 3" overhang in the front.
Things I would do different is I would have made the overhang 3" or 4"s longer. I am also going to add 1"X4" boards around the bottom of the legs, so the legs don't sink into the ground. I am also going to paint it.
