Re-using a metal shed for coop?

[HoP]

Hi,
I moved into a new place with a metal shed, (it looks kind of like a barn). Its not big, but was going to get rid of it and put a new coop and run there, but after looking inside, its not leaking.
I am wondering if anyone has re-done one of these sheds for a coop. Do you think its wise with the hot summers? I am going to cut window in the sides and was thinking about putting wood paneling on the inside.
I am all about recycling, but want my girls to have a nice place when they are grown. Right now they are about a week old, so I have a bit of time.

Thanks for any advice..

You can see a photo of part of it here..I took this photo for a before and after of a pond I found under massive ivy invasion..but it show the shed.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/hop2011/5620314013/

 

[jason_mazzy]

I built a bench using cinder blocks and 2x4's then put a nest box on it. worked for me.

 

[fried green eggs]

It's not bad but - Metal/Steel barns tend to really heat with the hot sun and when its cold they can feel like walking in to a fridge so Insulation is needed in ceiling, walls and floor if possible to help buffer the weather. Windows and vents are also very very important to cool. I have a tack room in my steel sided arena that is well insulated and it stays cool and dry in the summer and warmer in the winter than rest of barn.

 

[chickbird]

Quote:
it will get really hot in the summer, your chickens will need an area in the day to free range or a large run in the shade, at night you will need to run a large high velocity fan. i have one with a metal top and i do have 4 acres for mine to free range and use the fans at each end at night and a misting hose on the roof during the hot months.

 

[cackydoodledoo]

I think you would be fine. Just follow all the good suggestions that people have already posted. Also I would make sure it was securely posted or attached to the ground. I know some of those metal sheds can take flight in high winds!!!!

 

[crosbygroup]

Can we see pictures!

 

[silkie_sue]

Quote:
Hi,
We did just that with a old crappy looking green metal shed...lol
Tore off all the old metal and used the frame to build a "new" recycled coop. We did insulate it even the ceiling. Added a old exhaust fan and discounted windows. Nice new siding outside and inside we used some really cute rose paneling that was left over from a motorhome paneling job. The only original parts left are the frame work and the roof. The chickens love it and it's so cute. Here is a picture.

Suz

 

[HoP]

Hi,
We did just that with a old crappy looking green metal shed...lol
Tore off all the old metal and used the frame to build a "new" recycled coop. We did insulate it even the ceiling. Added a old exhaust fan and discounted windows. Nice new siding outside and inside we used some really cute rose paneling that was left over from a motorhome paneling job. The only original parts left are the frame work and the roof. The chickens love it and it's so cute. Here is a picture.


OH my gosh Suz, you just gave me inspiration!!

I belong to a "Free Cycle" group here and can probably get some nice wood paneling and other parts.

Thanks to all for all your input!

 

[cluckin tractor]

our hotes tempreture is about 35 degrres and coldest -3-4 degrees. my shed i tin with a betal frame which is open with one wall not in place. it does get hot in summer but it doset get two hot in the summer as their are tall trees next to it. go for it and im satisfied with my shed. just cut one wall out and put a wired run. if its long divide it with wire.

 

[Fay at Frizzled Feathers]

Quote:
Hi,
We did just that with a old crappy looking green metal shed...lol
Tore off all the old metal and used the frame to build a "new" recycled coop. We did insulate it even the ceiling. Added a old exhaust fan and discounted windows. Nice new siding outside and inside we used some really cute rose paneling that was left over from a motorhome paneling job. The only original parts left are the frame work and the roof. The chickens love it and it's so cute. Here is a picture.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/uploads/67762_mvc-003f.jpg

Suz

Suz ,very cute unique coop Love it !

Are you artistic or are the painted silkies stenciled on ?