Chicken run/coop combo

[5roosters1hen]

New to BYC and egg hens! In the design phase and I'm trying to decide if I need to build a coop... we're minimalists if you know what I mean
We have a 20x15' room addition off our second story which hangs over some packed dirt and the side of the storage/garage downstairs. So basically completely roofed and with one wall (which has window access to storage and electrical). I want to wrap and bury hardware cloth around the existing concrete columns that support the addition all the way to the exterior wall, with a door on there. We live in south Texas, so considering our temperate climate, is there a real need for a "coop?"
Our mesh walls will be sturdy and predator free, well ventilated, with proper drainage... we'll install necessary nesting/roosting/feeding/watering...what am I missing?

 

[Tlmcq]

As long as they are safe from predators and can get outta the elements (rain, sun, etc) they are ok. They do need something to roost on at night too and will need nesting area in enclosure. So maybe if you could put a simple 3 sided box of wood or whatever material you may have with nest box inside so they could go in to feel more secure for laying eggs or sleeping depending on size. It doesn't have to be extravagant.

 

[Tlmcq]

Oh and welcome to BYC

 

[Dmontgomery]

The plan you described is completely adequate for hens. Depending on your location in south Texas, (near the gulf?), you may want to have a tarp handy if it starts raining sideways. How many hens do you have?

 

[5roosters1hen]

Thank you both!
I don't have the chickens yet. Enough wild dogs roam this neighborhood (Houston area) that I need to have the coop up and running before I bring them home.

 

[Flock In Texas]

Welded wire fencing over hardware cloth to keep the dogs and the smaller predators out. Bury the fencing bottoms to prevent digging. Are you sure you want the chickens that close to your house? They can get noisy.

 

[tigger19687]

Sounds like you are lucky ! That is like a makeshift coop !
I would do 2 things
Make a box so they can go in to lay/hide
Fence in the outter property as a double deterant to dogs etc.

 

[aart]

Are you sure you want the chickens that close to your house? They can get noisy.

....and stinky!