First coop building that can withstand winter....Please help :)

[theacw]

I need some help on coop building! So I got EXTREMELY attached to my 2 chicks and decided to keep them. I thought I couldnt build a coop at my parents because we have cats, but by looking around on here, I guess that isnt much of a problem.

Now, we dont have ANY experience constructing so I need some suggestions! I want to build a simple, somewhat spacey coop that isnt too expensive- hoping under 500 dollars! BUT I live in MN so, is this going to make things harder with our harsh winters?
Do I need insulation to the coop or can it still be the basic coop?
How are chickens in cold weather?
What temperature do they start to stay in the coop and not go outside?
Do I have to have a pretty secure, no room for error coop to keep out the cold?
Anyone have a link to a coop that sounds like what I need?

Im just stressed about this because I am dying to keep these babies. They are just so attached to me, which makes it harder. But I want to build this coop fast so I have it done by the time they "outgrow" my apartment? Sound possible for someone with no knowledge of building even a book shelf? Haha


thanks!!!!!

 

[rickdigschicks]

Welcome theacw,
Check your local Craigslist. If it is anything like around here. You should be able to either find a prebuilt or
have someone build an insulated coop that will more than suite your peeps needs for around $300.00-$400.00. They will probably even
deliver it for you.

Not sure what part of MN you are in but here are a couple as an example.

http://minneapolis.craigslist.org/ank/grd/2367947618.html

here is a really nice tractor and run

http://minneapolis.craigslist.org/dak/grd/2358427814.html

Good luck I am sure you will find something.

 

[patandchickens]

Use craigslist etc to find find a secondhand shed and it will be easy to modify.

Good luck, have fun,

Pat

 

[theacw]

I live on the other side of MN 1/2 hour from Fargo and didnt find anything at all I could do on craigslist but I made a wanted ad for a coop and someone emailed me offering to build one which would be GREAT but

How risky is that? What do you guys think?

 

[rickdigschicks]

What do you feel is risky? If it's the money thing.
Ask if they have any references. Check them.
Get a solid quote in writing for what you want built.
Give them half down as a deposit with full payment made at delivery.