Chicken coop dilemma!

[EasyPeasyD]

I'm building a coop for my new trio of chickens.My sister @Feather Hearts and I were building a rectangular coop for them and it took us two entire days to complete the frame alone. We went to my stepdad for help and he said he would. This was fantastic news as he an experienced builder. Then we went round to my neighbors house and they had a triangular coop for their chickens. My stepdad thought it was really good because she caught her chicken easily, but my sister wasn't convinced. In all fairness to my sister she was right because the chicken had been in the nest box and probably not focusing on it's surroundings, therefore extremely easy to catch. My stepdad said he would help us build one like theirs. Both me and my sister got very upset because building the triangular one would mean scraping our rectangle frame that we worked very hard on. They are my chickens so I am allowed to choose on the important things like the coop they get. I don't know so could you guys give me some suggestions?

 

[Shamo Hybrid]

Are you close to your stepdad? If so, you should just tell him that your heart is set on the rectangular design and would appreciate it if he can help you with it since you already got the frame going. Also, ask him what other inputs or ideas he has for your coop..... that way he won't feel disregarded. With that said, he should have just asked what YOU want and whatever YOU decide he'll offer some help since it is your coop. But now he's putting you in a bit of a rut because I'm sure you don't want to offend him but at the same time you need his help, or rather, appreciate his help.

 

[bobbi-j]

Before you get all, "They're my chickens, I should have my way with the coop", maybe try having a mature conversation with your step-father (I don't know how your relationship is, but it's worth a try.) Maybe something like, "Hey, Bob (or whatever you call him), I appreciate your suggestion. Is there a reason you think an A-frame (I'm assuming that's what you mean by "triangular coop") would be better than the one Sis and I already framed up? I really kind of like the rectangular one, so I'm just wondering. Here's why I like the one we framed up... But I'm willing to listen to suggestions." And then hear him out. Who is paying for the materials? He's also investing his time in this project. Maybe he feels it will go faster with the A-frame so you can get your chickens into it sooner. Could be materials will cost less, saving someone some money. If he says it's because you can catch the chickens more easily, point out the fact that the one caught was in the nest box - you can catch them in any shape coop when they're in the nest box. Just listen to the man before you argue. He may be onto something. Remember - he's the experienced builder.

 

[Jennifer22388]

Maybe ... planned for more chickens in the future.. better to have more room than not enough!

 

[EasyPeasyD]

I am in a good relationship with my stepdad.(his name is Israel or Izzy for short BTW) I appreciate all the suggestions and will definitely talk to him about it when he gets back from work. About the costs: there are building materials lying around as we are currently building our house so it most likely wasn't about cost.

 

[bobbi-j]

Maybe ... planned for more chickens in the future.. better to have more room than not enough!

That would be a good point to bring up in your conversation.

 

[aart]

NewA-frames are not very functional, IMO....usually too small of a roosting space, they don't shed the weather well and are thus harder to adequately ventilate.
They are very attractive because they may be easier and cheaper to build,
but not worth it if the thing doesn't function well long term.

@EasyPeasyD how much have you researched and ....
.....Where in this world are you located?
Climate is almost always a factor.
Please add your general geographical location to your profile.
It's easy to do, then it's always there!