First coop

[Vinniemac]

Starting my first coop from a 8X8 shed plan. I only plan on having 3 or 4 hens. this shed will be half coop & half for supplies.
Vinnie

 

[Judy]

Looks good! I always like to see people go with an 8x8, as it doesn't take that much more material, and the space most always turns out to be useful in one way or another. Smart plan!

 

[chickenbythesea]

looks great!! be sure to post updates with pictures

 

[Vinniemac]

I know this doesn't have anything to do with chickens .but in the future if I want to add more pictures to this thread is there an easy way to find it?
Vinnie

 

[chickenbythesea]

any thread that you comment should be highlighted in your feed.... other than that I don't know... I'm not very techy

 

[Vinniemac]

Before I Get to far along anyone know where I can get plan for exterior nest boxes
Vinnie

 

[Vinniemac]

Should the run have a roof or is a wire roof OK Advantages or disadvantages.
Vinnie

 

[RulerOfTheSkies]

If you live in a cold or rainy area, a wire roof is not a good idea. i would recommend a slightly tilted roof made out of asphalt roofing material. i own 8 chickens and hope this helps

I found some sites. hope this is useful to you.
http://www.chicken-coops-to-build.com/chicken-nest-boxes.html
http://weekendhomestead.net/posts/chicken-nest-boxes/
http://www.thegardencoop.com/blog/2011/03/10/external-nest-box-plans/

 

[Vinniemac]

Thanks that was great information I am confused on how high off the floor of the coop the nest box entrances Should be. One said 12" And the other one looks to be About 6" any advice on that ?
Vinnie

 

[weekendhomestea]

Vinnie,

As far as the height of the nest box goes, either 12" or 6" will work. The things to keep in mind.

Are you going to try a deep litter system? Make the nest box high enough to allow room for the litter on the floor of the coop.

The nest box MUST be lower than the perch. Otherwise the hens will roost in the nest box. They will then poop in the nest box.

As far as your multipurpose use, I would recommend a floor to ceiling partition because chickens kick up a lot of dust.

-RDG