Pre- Fab coop?

[Banjosan]

Anybody have any luck purchasing a pre made coop? I looking into urban coop company but they seem to be made for a mild climate. Thanks!

 

[AmericanKraut]

I haven't used one but I have read mixed reviews here on the ones that are made of fir wood. It seems like people that have a fenced in yard do ok with them if they replace the latches with sturdy, predator proof ones and really make sure everything is tight and secure. If you're in an area with a lot of predators, they seem to be a real challenge.

Other types like fiberglass, plastic, and more durable wood sound like they are well-liked and just a personal preference based on affordability and desired options.

If you know a specific one you're interested in, you can search the name of it here and see if there are reviews or posts about it maybe. I do know most people have said the amount of chickens the pre-fabs say they can house is usually over-estimated. Like if it says it can house 6, it may really be good for 4.

Just some thoughts from when I've been hunting around on the topic.

 

[Banjosan]

Thanks for your thoughts.

 

[GAchickennewbie]

I bought mine 2 years ago. It's been a mess. I've had to replace the roof, still have to replace some wood on the side, and had to put wood over the top of the run because the wire was coming loose.

I'm sure there are some that hold up well, but I haven't had that experience.

You can probably build something that would last longer for less.

 

[Banjosan]

Yes, most of them look really cheap and flimsy. Sorry to hear about your experience. This summer I bought a bare bones shed for my ducks from a shed manufacturer in my state. My husband put in a window and made a duck door. Sadly its still not great, but it was a lot more space for the money but I think we will have to make the eaves bigger at some point or it will rot! I just have a bird habit! That is the real problem. Have a good day!

 

[GAchickennewbie]

lol! Normally we would call it chicken math, but I think in your case, it's "fowl math". lolol!

 

[aart]

I haven't bought one, but have read ALOT about them.

Always way too small, almost always cheaply made....basically a waste of alot of money.

 

[Banjosan]

 

[Banjosan]

 

[AmericanKraut]

Sheds have been a popular option, either bought new or used off Craigslist etc and converted with some added ventilated and door.