got my chick-n-barn -- advice, modifications

[brookwoodpat]

I got it and opened the package and read the directions. The barn looks nicer and a bit bigger than I thought it would. The directions seem easy to put together, but I thought before I begin tomorrow (rain permitting) I thought I would ask if any one had any recommendations.

Also, I was thinking of the following modification -- putting a wire floor on the bottom, and under the wire floor a frame that would run the length of the house and yard, with wheels attached to the frame, to make the "barn" a tractor. The fact that the barn is plywood (and thus light) is a plus in being able to move it in that way. And also to raise the barn up high enough so that the nests are off the ground. Does anyone think this is a good idea? I was wondering if people would post pictures of their own chick-n-barn modifications or suggestions if they would. My chicks are two weeks and one week old (maybe a few days older than that), ten in all, three Red Star and 7 RIR pullets.
thanks
pat

 

[Cetawin]

I think making it mobile would be great as long as it remains secure for them.

Congrats on the babies and good luck with yuor decision.

 

[Dawn419]

Here's a link to our modified Chick-N-Barn/Yard:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/web/viewblog.php?id=1560

About the only thing we wish we had done differently is to have made the frame out of 2 x 2's instead of 2 x 4's so that it isn't so heavy. Skip moves it, by hand, about once a month. We'll eventually add wheels, one of these days, so that I'll be able to move it myself.

Hope this is some help!


Dawn

 

[brookwoodpat]

Well I have to say, a ten year old girl could put a chick-n-barn together, it is that easy. I don't know how well it will stand up over time, but boy is it easy to put together. Since it is a hot day, all chicks are out enjoying the grass and sunshine in their 4' X 3' "tractor" which I pulled up to have the exit door to the entrance of the chicken barn, with the chick=n-yard on the side. so all things togehter they have about 25- sqare feet to play in right now. It probably isn't enough for ten chickens, but for the time being it will do.