Building first coop- Progress Pic- Suggestions?

[kellanv]

Looks like you've got a good start on the coop. The couple of suggestions I would make is to double up on your 2x4s along the top as it might give you more to hang your joists from. For that span you will be looking at least a 2x8. Also, you may think about adding more studs in between the ones you have now which look to be about 3' apart. Here you really want about 2' minimum else your siding/metal may not want to stay put, especially in wind.

Good luck!

 

[CraftyGemini]

Thanks, Kellanv!

We were just talking about doubling up on the 2x4s across the top so thanks for solidifying that decision for us. )

As for the sides... we plan to use plywood on one short side and about 1/3 of the two long sides. The rest will be covered in hardware cloth because we live in FL and want as much ventilation as possible. Should we still add more studs in this case or can we get by with what we have since we will be using plywood and hardware cloth. Any input would be great! Thanks again.

 

[kellanv]

No problem. Even with plywood I would try to give it a little more to hang on to. If it starts to warp/sag/swell on you, more studs = less movement. 1/2" and less will have more of a problem with that. 5/8"-1" is more stable but a lot heavier, especially when compared to the frame you have.

 

[CraftyGemini]

Got it! Thanks a million. We'll add more reinforcements. I think the plywood we got is either 1/2" or 5/8". I'll have to look and see since we got it free from my father in law he just dropped a bunch of sheets off.