ideas for free/cheap materials

[nikki1]

We're building a coop in the spring, and we'd like to be as economical (aka CHEAP) as possible. We found a stack of 4x4's and 2x4's under the porch when we bought the place this summer. We need to inventory them, but I'm sure there's not enough. We also have a roll of 2/5 metal mesh the previous owner had leftover from part of the fence.

So all this is a start. Where else can a person scavenge building materials? Paint can cover a lot of ugly, so pretty isn't a huge priority. I'm going for functional here. Any ideas would be a big help.

--Nikki

 

[kimisfishing]

paletts and old barns are a great start

 

[nikki1]

Sorry! You should really proofread before posting! I didn't mean 2/5 mesh, I actually meant 2x4 mesh. I seem to have my weekend brain on.

--Nikki

 

[hmmcc123]

My husband and are local to you. We are just finishing up our coop on a budget. Search craigslist for cheap and/or free materials. Also, for inexpensive paint, go to a local paint store and ask to look at their messed up paint. They will sell it for $5 a gallon. It takes a few stops usually but I found nice colors this way. Just make sure they are the right type of paint you need. Exterior vs. Interior. I also found quite a few things just looking around the neighborhood while driving! People put things out for free. I have also stopped at peoples houses who have stuff laying around that doesn't look like it has been touched in a while. You will be surprised at how friendly people are especially when you mention chicken coop. It never hurts to ask and the worse they could do is say no!!

Good Luck!!

 

[NanaLantana]

Do you subscribe to Freecycle? If so, you can post a wanted ad for building materials. Lots of construction people throw the stuff out regularly. Habitat re-store is also cheaper than your local depot, and also watch the side of the road the day before garbage pickup. Hope you get all the stuff you need -- cheep cheep!

 

[Chicks & Guineas]

You should also be able to get paint (for free or almost) at your county recycling/hazmat center.

 

[hmmcc123]

Oh and....

 

[Animalian]

I have seen ad's for second hand cubbys (kids playhouses?) going for like $100 oe $200, they have metal rooves, insulation, are raised, have windows. This is for a 2.5x3m one. You'd just have to install a pop door.

I have seen people do great things with pallets though

 

[cisca-n-max]

We got most of the wood for our coop from the wood pile at our city landfill... idk if all dumps sort their stuff as well... but its worth a shot.

 

[tsmith1499]

Check for a local Habitat for Humanity "Restore Store". They sell new and used windows, doors all kind of stuff. We bought 4 double pane winows and a NEW prehung door with frame for $125.00. I know this might not be cheap to some people, but where we live that's almost a giveaway. Heck the door alone at Lowes or HD is over $150.00!!