Some basic design questions

[mikecnorthwest]

For Buff Orpingtons and Barred Rocks how large should the house door be?

How steep is too steep for the ramp to the house door? Also, I've seen some where the ramp is a two piece ramp with a landing and then ramp reverses direction. Any problem with this? I want to save room in the run.

Also, I'm still trying to decide between outside nestbox or inside nestbox? Both would have exterior door but of course the outside nestbox would give more room within the house. My concern with the outside is water leaking in where the top of the box is hinged. Any thoughts on making the outside boxes waterproof?

Thanks.

 

[SoJoChickens]

I'm not sure there is a standard size for doors but most I've seen are about 12" tall and 7" or 8" wide.

I don't see a problem with a multi-directional ramp. I wouldn't go more than about 45 degrees on the angle unless the ramp is fairly short.

I would also go with inside nest boxes. If you raise the nest boxes off the ground 18" to 24", it won't take away from your floor space and you won't have to worry about water proofing.