Converting Storage Shed to Chicken Coop

[KFox]

I have a 5 x 10 x 5 (estimate) sized wooden storage shed that I'm converting to a chicken coop. I'm not sure how to set up the inside. It will be used for 6 Barred Rocks. No roosters.

I'm thinking of using locking cat doors as an exit for them to get out into the run or "play yard" as my family calls it. I used this for my goats when they were kids and have gotten used to calling it a play yard.

I have a couple cat doors we couldn't use on our goat barn, so I'm going to use those. The doors will allow them to come and go as they please during the day and be locked up at night. The actual door will stay a hinged closed door but I'll add a screen door that is hinged from the inside, so it can be open during the day. Would they enjoy the fresh air or would the screen door make the chickens feel insecure?

I'm thinking of installing floor register vents in the top of the shed on either side. It will keep weather out, allow for ventilation and there are plastic deflectors made perfect size to use to keep rain running off and away. I'm thinking the deflectors will help keep predators away as well. The angle should keep them sliding off instead of working their way in.

There is a wooden floor. It is not insulated. It has a shingled roof. I was planning on pine shavings on the floor. Do I need to insulate? I live in SE Indiana and we have hot summers and cold winters.

I have a small dog house and if the chickens would like that, I'll put it in there. I also have the plastic sided travel crates. The bottoms look like litter boxes with an opening that a chicken could use to get in and out. I'm thinking of filling one with gravel and one with sand. I'm trying to use materials I have here and recycle as much as possible.

Any suggestions on making this predator-proof or any other suggestions?

 

[guard278th]

Sounds good I'd only use 1 cat door ,and the screen door is fine I use a chain link gate for mine , I agree on recycling items ,they are so many items outthere that chickens love I got a few mailboxes and milk crates for nest , my coop is a old hog lot barn , good luck

 

[VelvettFog]

They would enjoy the fresh air - but beware that normal screen will not keep out the nasties.

Insulation - if you are well ventilated but not drafty most chickens will take single digit temperatures. Width of roosting bar is important.

There are loads of threads on building coops - start with this one: https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=140561



VF

 

[KFox]

Thanks for the link!

I've been doing as much research as possible so I get this right.