Things you've learned while building your coop...

[TinyBirds]

We have a couple of companies nearby that use those large storage crates (5'widex8'longx7'high) and we buy their old ones and turn them into chicken coops. They're just $100 each. Plus we get to feel eco-friendly since it's recycling!

 

[BMO]

New member here.
Been pecking away at building a chciken coop for a few weeks now.
Walls are standing and covered, no roof nor have I started inside.
I had been looking at the Chicken Coop picture gallery to build mine. Never thought to look for a forum section. I'm glad I finally did. Been staying up late at night , tossing and turning trying to figure out just what a chicken needs.
I know now, now matter how perfect I get it, it will never be perfect.
Now I can sleep better.
I do have a question though, does anybody put in floor vents for circulation ?

 

[Coopa Cabana]

I don't have floor vents, but I do have a louvered vent up near the roof line, and 2 of my 3 windows open (they are screened, also).

 

[KatyTheChickenLady]

Quote:
Sounds very inventive, PLEASE post a pic or 2. thanks

 

[1stepcloser]

I learned never to jump onto a t-bar in a desperate attempt to make it go further into the ground. I have been limping for a week now...

 

[pamiejune]

TinyBirds - what storage crates/boxes are you talking about? It sounds like a good deal and I'd like to know more about it for the next time!

Pam

 

[Coopa Cabana]

Quote:
Me, too! Can you post some pics?

 

[nhnanna]

Chauntecleer's Keeper :

Expect to have predators and have a good plan to defeat them. A hot wire along the top of the fence has worked well for me.

make your coop easy for your wife to clean out​

 

[TcherDawn]

Quote:
but not as much as a 2 yr old who's learning to count and wants to be in charge of handing out the nails.

2 hours of "how many is this? is this 4?" and i wanted to throw myself off the balcony...

Give 2 yr old small child size hammer, nails, and a pumpkin (or gourd etc) Have them drive nails into the pumpkin. It is THE favorite lesson at my son's preschool. She had to limit each child to two nails per day! When they get really good, have them remove the nails. Then have them build the coop for you while you relax with your favorite beverage.

(Child labor laws?)

 

[Chook-A-Holic]

Always, and I repeat, Always, when you get the coop dried in, to take a weapon whether it be a hoe, brick, hammer etc. with you if you are in there taking measurements. Its no fun to go in taking measurements and writing them down, then turn around to go out the man door with a copperhead lying just inside the doorway. Anyone ever try to move a mad snake with a only a tape measure?