So today we did it - finally got our first chicks today. So that means it's time to get serious about converting this old horse stall into a chicken coop. I'd appreciate some feedback on my own thoughts, and suggestions for things I don't voice.
This is a small barn or a large shed. Whatever it is, it's in need of some love. Late summer, early fall we are replacing the siding, the roof, and the large overhang. We'll install a nice run for the chickens but that has to wait till construction is complete. So they'll have a temporary run until then. There is power in this barn.
I live in the pacific northwest. Our winters aren't too cold and our summers aren't that hot. This spot is dry and not at risk for flooding.
In the above pic, you'll see a horse stall on the far right. It measures 11' x 11'. This is where the chickens will go. The door will need to be replaced with a full sized door.
Inside there are some low gaps that you can see in these pics between the cinderblocks that will have to be secured. I plan on covering the floor wall to wall with mesh wire to prevent digging predators from getting in and covering with dirt or sand, etc. Would that be too drafty being so low?
And with the window, should I pop it out and install mesh wire for ventilation? I'm leaning yes on that one. It's the only currently installed window in the stall.
View from the side. Nearest corner is the horse stall. Until the permanent fencing goes in I'll just put some fencing along the beams and let them roam in the covered area.
View looking to the side where my fence is. Their run will extend out to there.
I worry this isn't enough ventilation so I'd appreciate some feedback on that. Any other suggestions for things I didn't mention would be appreciated.
This is a small barn or a large shed. Whatever it is, it's in need of some love. Late summer, early fall we are replacing the siding, the roof, and the large overhang. We'll install a nice run for the chickens but that has to wait till construction is complete. So they'll have a temporary run until then. There is power in this barn.
I live in the pacific northwest. Our winters aren't too cold and our summers aren't that hot. This spot is dry and not at risk for flooding.
In the above pic, you'll see a horse stall on the far right. It measures 11' x 11'. This is where the chickens will go. The door will need to be replaced with a full sized door.
Inside there are some low gaps that you can see in these pics between the cinderblocks that will have to be secured. I plan on covering the floor wall to wall with mesh wire to prevent digging predators from getting in and covering with dirt or sand, etc. Would that be too drafty being so low?
And with the window, should I pop it out and install mesh wire for ventilation? I'm leaning yes on that one. It's the only currently installed window in the stall.
View from the side. Nearest corner is the horse stall. Until the permanent fencing goes in I'll just put some fencing along the beams and let them roam in the covered area.
View looking to the side where my fence is. Their run will extend out to there.
I worry this isn't enough ventilation so I'd appreciate some feedback on that. Any other suggestions for things I didn't mention would be appreciated.
