Want to raise up existing coop

[CovidChickas]

Hi! I have 4 five week old. I’ve had them for 4 days. The chicks are currently in a large box in our garage and as I am learning more about them, I am realizing that I will feel more comfortable with the coop elevated off the ground. Please see the brand new coop I bought and built.

I have seen some incredible buildings you all have constructed and I’m beyond impressed!!! I was wondering if anyone has successfully passed along building instructions to a gal that likes to use a power tool although I need explicit directions with exactly what 2by4 I need, nails etc?!?
If anyone has any ideas, plans they are willing to share I would greatly appreciate it.
im basically looking to build a secure base and elevate the enclosed coop off the ground so I can hang their food below? This pic is just for inspiration. I have the exact measurements too if anyone needs them!! Lol
thank you all so much!!!

 

[CovidChickas]

Pics

 

[CluckerFamily]

Where are you located? Do you have to worry about the frozen ground heaving?
That was my worry when I built my coop but I have been very impressed there there has been no heaving. I used 4x4s for the legs and these are on the blocks make for 4x4s, then you can create a frame around these with 2x4s based on your measurements of your coop.

 

[CovidChickas]

Where are you located? Do you have to worry about the frozen ground heaving?
That was my worry when I built my coop but I have been very impressed there there has been no heaving. I used 4x4s for the legs and these are on the blocks make for 4x4s, then you can create a frame around these with 2x4s based on your measurements of your coop.

I’m in Chicago.( I just went to check and the coop is currently 54 with the heat lamp on-just a side note on info bc I’m monitoring the temp bc I’m afraid to roast them...but that’s a different thread) I’m a very visual person so any pictures would be very helpful too. Thank you.

 

[DobieLover]

I’m in Chicago.( I just went to check and the coop is currently 54 with the heat lamp on-just a side note on info bc I’m monitoring the temp bc I’m afraid to roast them...but that’s a different thread) I’m a very visual person so any pictures would be very helpful too. Thank you.

Unfortunately, that coop is way too small for 5 chickens. Especially in snow country.

 

[CluckerFamily]

I’m in Chicago.( I just went to check and the coop is currently 54 with the heat lamp on-just a side note on info bc I’m monitoring the temp bc I’m afraid to roast them...but that’s a different thread) I’m a very visual person so any pictures would be very helpful too. Thank you.

I'll try to get a picture tomorrow unless someone else has a better idea. My coop is only a foot off the ground, they don't have access to underneath the coop.

 

[CovidChickas]

Unfortunately, that coop is way too small for 5 chickens. Especially in snow country.

i only have 4 and you can't see the other side has two more nesting boxes so a total of 4 boxes. this is just for them to roost at night and get out danger if need be during the day. The rest of the time they will be free ranging.

 

[DobieLover]

i only have 4 and you can't see the other side has two more nesting boxes so a total of 4 boxes. this is just for them to roost at night and get out danger if need be during the day. The rest of the time they will be free ranging.

My mistake on the head count. It is still too small for four birds. The coop still needs to have adequate size and ventilation for the birds to be healthy and not overly aggressive with one another at roost time.
They only need 1 nest box.
They will not free range when it is pouring down rain all day or if there is deep snow on the ground. Where will they spend their days when the snow is so deep they cannot leave the coop?
Do you have a shed or other outbuilding on your property? Converting part of a shed into a coop would work better.

 

[CinnaBun]

You could make a base similar to the base on this coop. (Fairly easy instructions)
https://www.ana-white.com/sites/def...l planter box run cedar free plans step 6.jpg

Though the 4x4 frame and cement footings is very sturdy too.

 

[CovidChickas]

My mistake on the head count. It is still too small for four birds. The coop still needs to have adequate size and ventilation for the birds to be healthy and not overly aggressive with one another at roost time.
They only need 1 nest box.
They will not free range when it is pouring down rain all day or if there is deep snow on the ground. Where will they spend their days when the snow is so deep they cannot leave the coop?
Do you have a shed or other outbuilding on your property? Converting part of a shed into a coop would work better.

I plan to cover the outside run with a clear plastic sheeting and still deciding on how to winterize the roof with either metal sheeting or something for light and I plan to keep it open for the chickens to go in And out