Choosing plans or designing plans for chicken coop

[jbahros]

I would like plans with the following criteria: Possible to build by someone with no building experience, suitable for 15-20 chickens, although I have 10 pullets now 8 weeks old, one 15 weeks, and another 13 weeks, affordable, decent looking but not fancy- I like rustic, I like the idea of a storage area inside with nesting boxes opening to this area. I have looked at many coops on this site and on line and haven't found the right one yet. I would love advice. Buying a shed and customizing is super pricey since sheds are so expensive.

 

[black_cat]

I would like plans with the following criteria: Possible to build by someone with no building experience, suitable for 15-20 chickens, although I have 10 pullets now 8 weeks old, one 15 weeks, and another 13 weeks, affordable, decent looking but not fancy- I like rustic, I like the idea of a storage area inside with nesting boxes opening to this area. I have looked at many coops on this site and on line and haven't found the right one yet. I would love advice. Buying a shed and customizing is super pricey since sheds are so expensive.

It sounds that you're having trouble finding any that meet your criteria, so design your own! Looking at other plans as reference is a good idea to help you make sure it's well structured and such, but you can customize it to your needs.

 

[jbahros]

Hey Black Cat,
Thanks for your lightening fast reply. Yes you are right and that is what I'm doing now but since I have never built anything it is a bit intimidating.

 

[Folly's place]

For twenty birds you will want a coop at least 100 sq. ft., with a much bigger attached run. Don't build too small! Many people do use a garden shed as a start, because then the necessary modifications are much easier.
I think that the very best design is a Woods coop, and there are plans available to build one.
Sometimes craigslist or other sites have sheds available cheap, or free, if you get lucky.
Hoop coops can be very inexpensive, and built big and predator safe, with minimal building skills.
Planning ahead, as you are doing, is best!
Mary

 

[jbahros]

Thanks so much Follys Place. I already have a very large run with aviary netting on top and sides with poultry fencing. This is just during the day. I'm planning to stay at 10 chickens now but just want extra room in case I expand in the future. In addition to the large run ( 30 x 60 feet) I have a 12x12 ft enclosed dog kennel with fitted tarp roof. I have lined the entire area with half inch HC including the walls, ceiling, floor ( dug down 4 inches then covered with soil and then wood chips. Also 2 foot apron outside the coop. I initially had some tunneling critters but not now. Where do I find plans for a wood coop?

Thank you so much for your help,

Jessica

 

[aart]

Buying a shed and customizing is super pricey since sheds are so expensive.

Yes, but building a shed would be a good place to start,
and a good way to start learning about building.
Look for shed plans to build the basic structure.