Feeling stuck! Need building help!

[JessicaGrant]

I am building a little coop myself out of scraps (I know, two strikes!) It has gone very well so far and I am almost done, except for the side that is going to have a large-ish door for clean out, etc. I tried, but it was a disaster so I have taken it down and I am starting over.

The truth is, I have no idea how to build a door frame. Does the door fit in between studs or does it lay against something that keeps it steady and keeps it from swinging in? I don't even know how to ask the question! I looked on line but every site I saw was written for someone who knew more than me about building!

You guys have been so helpful already and even a nudge in the right direction would be great! Thanks!!!

 

[arlee453]

It depends on the door. The easiest thing to do is to make a frame of wood that JUST fits inside the opening you have, then cover with plywood.

On the opening, take a piece of scrap plywood, etc and place it diagonally against the inside bottom corners on the INSIDE. That way when the door swings in, it will stop against that piece of wood and not swing too far in...if that makes sense??

 

[Yanna]

I feel your pain! I know next to nothing about building, too.

If you look closely at the coop construction pics in this section of the forum, though, you'll see a lot of framing, including framing where doors and windows will be installed. Sometimes it's easier to learn by observation than by trying to read technical mumbo jumbo. Sketching exactly how things will go together can also be helpful in working out potential problems.

Best wishes with your coop! I'll be starting construction of an "intermediate" coop & run on Monday and will probably end up here asking for advice, too.

 

[JessicaGrant]

Thanks! It is done and it worked ok...a few cracks there and there but my whole coop is going to need a lot of trim to keep it from being too drafty!

 

[JessicaGrant]

Quote:
Thanks and good luck with your coop! This whole project has been a learning process for me but I feel so competent, now! My kids have asked me to build a new house and while I understand that I am not there yet (and probably never will be) if I *had* to I could probably build something to shelter us. A good feeling!