Need advice for hoop design chicken run

[farmer_lew]

I am thinking of making PVC hoop coops at the new place. My plan is to use 10' sticks of 1" PVC connected together. That way, the bends will be gradual. I want it to be 6' at the peak, at least. That way I can walk inside. So, overall, each piece will be 20' long plus an inch or two added by the connectors. It may end up being more than 6' at the peak, depending on the final width.

 

[snazzyboots]

this is a coop that we built based on several designs here. our pvc pipes work really well. we just finished it last weekend. good luck to you

 

[Shai]

For the one who asked: CPVC is more flexible than PVC. So flexible that if I were to use CPVC for the hoops (which would be easier to bend), I'd still use PVC for and straight supports. Both are susceptible to UV damage though I am not sure which is worse.

 

[zookeeper15133]

I used 10 ft long, the standard size they come. It is 4 foot wide and 47" high, over the 2x4 frame (on edge). I drilled 1/2" holes in the frame and inserted the PVC then screwed through the board and PVC.

 

[suzyQlou]

Thanks for so many great suggestions. I never even thought about gluing the pvc. I've used pvc for some other projects, but always used the connectors. It's funny how that cost can really add up. Cpvc, heating the pipe, and electrical conduit are all new to me. It's funny how much these chickens are teaching me!

I guess I'm reluctant to do too much re-work. It feels like I should be done by now. I think I'll probably save the frame and go with a square. Now I'm laughing at myself. I was so cautious at first, planning all this construction for weeks. Now I'm just ready to wing it. Should be fun!

 

[PapaChaz]

Quote:
nice! can't tell from the pic, did you put 'T's in the top and run a straight piece between them at the top? if i was gonna go through the trouble of gluing the rest, i'd do that too. and make sure you buy one of those pliers type pvc cutters, the time it will save you will make it worth it, no doubt!