Almost there - Mostly done coop pics

[Prospector]

I still need to make th eegg-spaces and put windows on, but here is where we are at with the coop.

I need to get busy with attaching windows and the laying boxes since the front of the coop was covered with paw prints (I suspect from the neighbour's Jack Russel) this morning. I wonder if I can work with the neighbour to train the dog to protect the chickens. This little dog does an amazing job of chasing off Raccoons and rats and whatnot.

Anyways, heres a link to the pics in my wife's blog. Hope they give you some ideas:

http://ravens-rook.blogspot.com/search/label/The Mighty Tiny Chicken Ranch (For all chicken related posts)
http://ravens-rook.blogspot.com/2010/05/building-chicken-coop.html (for coop construction & building)

 

[elmo]

Thoughtfully designed, and nicely executed!

You are going to appreciate that design particularly when you need to clean out the coop. That's the first thing I look for in coop design...how easy will it be to keep clean?

Well done!

 

[joletabey]

That is a great design- so easy to clean!!!

 

[MeettheFlockers]

Really nice! I love how well you considered cleaning up when you designed it.

 

[3chimama]

So enjoyed reading your blog....the coop looks great!

 

[Dogfish]

Very nicely done.

 

[Prospector]

Thanks for all your compliments!

Any last minute suggestions for improvement/functionality before I wrap up the finishing touches?

 

[nelgkel]

Looks Great!! Good Job!

 

[Dogfish]

I would have trimmed my roofing material as I worked. Very easy to do with a straight edge and a razor knife during the install. Getting a straight edge now will be difficult. Also, using this method I can eliminate a lot of waste. That would be my only critical assessment, other than the weight of those fold up doors. Can everyone manage moving them safely? Make sure you have a solid way to secure those when up, as that is a lot of weight that could come down on someone.

 

[Prospector]

Thanks Dogfish.

The doors are actually quite manageable. the ply is only 1/4" so there isn't a lot of weight there. I have decided though that the bi-fold willbe reversed so that the centre section opens downwards. For a quick reach in, or for ventilation, it will work better that way.

A single section is surprisingly light, and isn't hard at all to hold up. I wil lbe putting hook and eye catches in to hold it up when open. Thanks for your suggestions.

I've also come to the conclusion tha tI will have to install a human door in the end of the coop. While the opening back of the coop is great for ventillation and cleaning, it is less than ideal for changing teh water or adding feed. I think I need the quick access of a human door for that. I'd rather make the change now when its nice out than put it off until November and be out working in the cold fiddling with the back in a blizzard.