Coop and Run

[NNYchick]

If you are building your own remember lumber comes in multiples of 4. So rather than the dimensions above think about 12x8, 16x8 you will have less lumber waste meaning less money per square ft. Always round up to how many chickens you are planning, chicken math is a real thing. Go with the biggest dimensions you can afford. If you are going with pre made coop, please do a lot of research first as many people are not happy with them and end up with added expense of modifications.

 

[emily97]

You guys are very helpful. I'm glad you all commented

 

[Sara Ranch]

I don't know where you are located, but also consider insulating the coop.

And of course, make sure it's well vented.

I use the sand method (instead of shavings for my outdoor houses). I put a piece of plywood over the floor to minimize sand loss & and as an extra layer of insulation & "ha, get through that!"

Might think about electricity to the coop. Some people insist on it and want the light bulb. Other people don't have power to the coop and get along fine without it. (I don't have power in the majority of my animal houses.)

Have you thought about windows? If it will be off the ground? A people door?

I agree with others - the bigger the better!

 

[emily97]

I live in Stewartsville, Missouri

 

[emily97]

I will have windows and have chicken wire over it so they can't get out but I don't know if it will be off the ground maybe about a foot so it isn't too far if they fall off. And a people door for me in the back away from the roosting area.

 

[Sara Ranch]

I use to live in MO. It got COLD.

If you put pressure treated plywood around the perimeter/base of the chicken coop, with vents that can open/close, it will help keep the temp under the chicken coop an even number, probably in the 50's.

If not, definitely put hardware cloth around the base of the coop.

 

[emily97]

Thank you ... Where did you live in MO? You don't have to answer that just curious and what kind of coop do you recommend? I want to try to get someone else opinion.

 

[BYCforlife]

10x10 is best- you could probably hold 20-30 chickens in there if you have a large run.

 

[emily97]

Thank you but I'm only getting 5-7 chickens I will start out small and get some more chickens later if I can..

 

[ScottandSam]

I did live in st Louis it got cold. Now close to Branson mo not so cold here.

Scott