I currently have 2 coops, one 8x16x8 feet tall and an 8x8 with barn style roof. A converted storage shed. Both have an overhang gated porch attached which opens up into a fenced run area. Porch size matches coop size.The porch allows them open air and additional protected space to stretch their legs and feed during inclement weather such as rain or snow during the winter months while still being gated to keep most critters out. I used garden fencing from top to bottom to secure the walls. In the winter I staple poly wrap to block out cold and snow. It appears you have chosen to elevate your coop off the ground. Aside from cleaning, it may have some advantages along with some disadvantages. Its good to spend time inside the coop as well as outside the coop and you will soon find out why if you don't explore.
Anyhow, I am downsizing and erecting a new coop at a new location, I moved! I am going to build a 10x12 ft. coop. It should accommodate up to 15 birds nicely but I plan on about 10-12 birds. I plan on a wood floor and it works good for lining with straw in both winter and summer. Straw absorbs a lot of poop droppings and keeps floor cleaner. You will find it to be less maintenance also. Especially under roosting boards. This is where deep litter methods of adding more straw to do less cleanup comes into play.
If you think farther, you can add a rain barrel to collect rain water run off for summer water supply using PVC piping and nipple feeders or just a spigot to fill your water containers. Hope these tips may help before you start.
Anyhow, I am downsizing and erecting a new coop at a new location, I moved! I am going to build a 10x12 ft. coop. It should accommodate up to 15 birds nicely but I plan on about 10-12 birds. I plan on a wood floor and it works good for lining with straw in both winter and summer. Straw absorbs a lot of poop droppings and keeps floor cleaner. You will find it to be less maintenance also. Especially under roosting boards. This is where deep litter methods of adding more straw to do less cleanup comes into play.
If you think farther, you can add a rain barrel to collect rain water run off for summer water supply using PVC piping and nipple feeders or just a spigot to fill your water containers. Hope these tips may help before you start.
