Question's about coops!

[Clearwater Chicken]

Hi everyone. My family is moving to a new property but it doesn't have a chicken coop. I have been trying to design a chicken coop to build. My plan is this a structure that is 20 x 15 house that is divided in the middle. one side will become the main coop for the flock, the other will be divided into a storage space, breeding cages, and chick-rearing areas. The storage space will be 5 by 10 and then the remaining space will be divided by a hallway that is 2 x 6 and I will build 4 feet long partitions too divide the space as i need it so i can have breeding cages and chick-rearing areas. is this coop too big? any thoughts, comments, questions, concerns?

 

[Folly's place]

It can't ever be too big!
Build with plywood dimensions in mind, so maybe 20'x 16' instead?
A 24" wide hallway is at least 12" too narrow! Imagine carrying stuff there, it will be grim. Make it wide enough for a cart, if possible, too.
Fire safety! Too many barns, especially, have critters trapped, when doors into pens or stall from outside would save lives, maybe even yours.
Having areas that can be either opened to each other, or closed off, works great. It's what we've done here, although our coop has sort of grown over time, so not as well planned out as yours will be!
Drainage! Make sure your building is sited properly, so water doesn't enter it. Money spent on a good foundation is better than wishing it was all good later.
Mary

 

[Clearwater Chicken]

thanks for the advice. i want to do the deep litter method and was planning on a dirt floor if that adds anything you have advice on

 

[Folly's place]

Wide roof overhangs, to protect the siding, offer shade, and keep weather out better. Lots of ventilation, high up, and big window openings for light and air.
Big attached run spaces, also with dividers, for either separation, or not.
Mary

 

[Folly's place]

A really good dig proof foundation too. A dirt floor sounds good, as long as it actually drains properly. Mine is concrete, also fine.
Mary

 

[aart]

is this coop too big?

Not if you can afford to build it.

any thoughts, comments, questions, concerns?

I suggest you get out your graph paper, pencil, and eraser and start playing with layouts. You could draw the main building on one sheet then use tracing paper to try different layouts.

-signed... the Old Drafter.