Coop/Run space and design help

[smmuirhead]

I meant that many based on the size coop I think I can fit in the space. Because of the narrowness in dimensions, I don't think a 4x8 would work. Since it's brick, I'm concerned about ventilation also. Which is why I wanted to leave the top open with a wire covering. The gate will also be changed out, wood frame and hardware cloth.

 

[smmuirhead]

Still looking for advice.... Wanting to get started on the build by the end of this month.

 

[ChickenMammX4]

Maybe it's just me, but that area seems awful dark to keep chickens in 24/7. Having an open roof helps some, but when it rains, and not having any ventilation near the ground, how would ever dry? Will they free range as well?? Just going in to sleep and lay?

Sorry to sound like a "Debbie Downer"

If you don't mind me asking, what was the original purpose of that area?

 

[aart]

Maybe it's just me, but that area seems awful dark to keep chickens in 24/7. Having an open roof helps some, but when it rains, and not having any ventilation near the ground, how would ever dry? Will they free range as well?? Just going in to sleep and lay?

Sorry to sound like a "Debbie Downer"

If you don't mind me asking, what was the original purpose of that area?

Agrees it looks 'stuffy' in there...ventilation could be a problem.

Have you gotten the area cleared out yet to see what it's like in there...moldy, etc?

Maybe some new pics of the cleared area would help us help you.

 

[smmuirhead]

Those are my same concerns. It's not stuffy in there actually and dries pretty quick after it rains. I'm more worried about the ventilation I think. They would be able to free range in our backyard from time to time, maybe a couple times a week, but I'm worried about them getting over the fence. As far as I know, the space was originally used just as a courtyard for plants. It's not cleaned out yet.... That's on the list for this weekend. I was in a car accident about three weeks ago and it kind of put everything on hold.

 

[smmuirhead]

Also, I should mention that it may look dark in the photos, but it gets sunlight at least half the day! Maybe it was the timing of when I took them.

 

[aart]

Was going to ask about sunlight exposure.....could make it too hot in there with the lack of ventilation being in Texas.

 

[smmuirhead]

It doesn't get direct sunlight, except near the top... but it gets light most of the day. I've thought about taking out the left side brick wall and replacing it with welded wire. That would give more sunlight and ventilation. With the coop and space underneath, they would still have enough shade, right? Maybe we could do a solid roof over the back for more shade. So much to consider.... my head hurts.

 

[aart]

It doesn't get direct sunlight, except near the top... but it gets light most of the day. I've thought about taking out the left side brick wall and replacing it with welded wire. That would give more sunlight and ventilation. With the coop and space underneath, they would still have enough shade, right? Maybe we could do a solid roof over the back for more shade. So much to consider.... my head hurts.

Planning a coop can be overwhelming.
Wanting to use that space, then realizing it may need major modification.....brainwrench!

Maybe solid roof, replace the upper half of the walls with mesh......
.....the lower portion might stay shaded and cooler, depends on how the sun moves thru the area and the surrounding site.
Those bricks could create shade and coolness......or soak up the sun and radiate heat later in the day.

 

[smmuirhead]

I like the idea of replacing the upper brick with mesh and leaving the bottom brick. That could be the best solution. Thanks for the advice! I'll post updates as we go along. I'm only slightly terrified I'm going to screw this up.