So I decided to build an underground coop: UPDATE pg 33

[Ken Andrews]

Love it...
What area of the country are you in? Are snow loads important?
But, I agree with the gentleman who said ditch the dirt on roof.
By the time you pile on the sides it should cover most of the insluation value. Would then suggest a foam insulation in the roof for completion of inclosure.
Where does your ground water go?
Is their a french drain located at perimeter with sotne and barrier.
Good luck,
Keep posted...
Ken

 

[geosheets]

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This is pretty cool. I love the 4 x 8's... nothing like a timber frame coop. Lots of variables that effect the weight limits on the wood. Type of wood, moisture content, etc. I'm with the others that the 2x laid flat is not going to hold up to the weight of the soil... especially not at a 48" span without excessive deflection. Here's a thought for you though if you really want to bury it... what about lots of temporary reinforcment, deck it with 2x or whatever, and pour lightweight concrete over the top.

 

[mikesbigroo]

well looks like ya got ya 2 things in the works,, not only a coop but a storm shelter as well, lol,, looks like a good start, good luck with the finished product:

 

[Oblio13]

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New Hampshire. I'd like to be able to support 6 or 8" of dirt and up to 6' of snow.

 

[Oblio13]

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The widest span is 40". Now I'm thinking about reducing the soil weight on that area by putting a couple big skylights there.

 

[Fudgie]

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Yeah just think, all you need is a propane camp stove and you can have eggs for your meals and be safe and your chickens safe all in the same area!!!!

 

[lovemychix]

That is going to be so cool...

 

[Zahboo]

Aren't buried structures bad? Just asking. It looks awesome and shows you really care about your birds. Just keep radon at bay

 

[ranchhand]

What's wrong with an underground shelter?




Anyway, just stopped in to nag, Oblio!

It's looking great- do you have any help with those beams? Seems like they would be unwieldy at best. I guess the Dane is no help there!

 

[Oblio13]

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There are two of them. They have amazing excavation capabilities, but are impossible to direct. And they always seem to be standing in exactly the wrong place, not to mention slobbering me every time my face is in range. I'm having Walter Mitty fantasies about being a Seabee constructing a bunker while under enemy fire.