Backyard chicken keeping has become an increasingly popular way to enjoy fresh eggs, promote sustainability, and engage in a rewarding DIY project. A well-designed coop not only provides a safe and comfortable environment for the chickens but also enhances the aesthetics of an outdoor space.
With a focus on durability, functionality, and affordability, this guide explores the process of building a backyard chicken coop that is predator-proof, easy to clean, and visually appealing.
Why This Plan Works
- Aesthetically Pleasing – Designed to complement our home and backyard.
- Structurally Sound – Built with durability and longevity in mind.
- Predator-Proof – Secured against dogs, raccoons, and even coyotes.
- Easy to Clean – Features like removable nesting boxes simplify maintenance.
- Economically Friendly – Designed efficiently without excessive costs.
What You Will Need
- Wood: 2x4s (untreated except for the base), 1x3s, 2×6 cedar for the flower box, and plywood for walls and flooring.
- Foundation: Cinder blocks for elevation and stability.
- Hardware: Decking nails, screws, hinges, lath screws, and fender washers.
- Screening Material: 1/2-inch hardware cloth for predator protection.
- Roofing: Polycarbonate Suntuf panels for shade and weather protection.
- Paint & Primer: Exterior-grade for longevity and weatherproofing.
How to Make
Step 1: Designing the Coop
We started by drawing up the framing and roofing plan. The coop/run footprint was set at 60 square feet, with the coop itself elevated two feet off the ground for extra security and space utilization.
Step 2: Laying the Foundation
We chose the highest point in our backyard to prevent flooding. Digging holes for the cinder blocks was the most labor-intensive part, given our Georgia red clay and rocky soil. Using string and a small level, we ensured a solid, even foundation.
Step 3: Framing the Structure
Using pre-measured 2x4s, we manually assembled the frame with decking nails. In some cases, decking screws were used for extra reinforcement. This step required precision to ensure a sturdy build.
Step 4: Painting
Before assembling further, we applied a white primer and then painted the frame a shade of gray to match our house. A paint roller significantly sped up the process compared to a traditional brush.
Step 5: Installing Hardware Cloth
We opted for 1/2-inch hardware cloth instead of chicken wire to prevent predators from chewing through. Attaching it with lath screws and fender washers, we ensured it was tight and secure. The cloth was buried two feet around the perimeter for additional security.
Step 6: Constructing the Run Door
The run door was built with 2x4s, ensuring a perfect 1/4-inch gap on all sides for a smooth close. Using door jam spacers helped maintain alignment during hinge installation.
Step 7: Building the Roof
To match standard roofing material sizes, we used 8-foot 2x4s for the rafters. Suntuf polycarbonate panels in smoke gray provided both shade and durability. These were fastened with loctite screws and rubber washers for a tight seal.
Step 8: Constructing the Elevated Coop
The coop was assembled using 1/2-inch plywood. All plywood was primed and painted before installation. A clear caulk seal was applied to prevent water damage. Ventilation was achieved with hardware cloth panels, and access doors were built for easy maintenance.
Step 9: Adding the Nesting Boxes and Roosts
The nesting boxes were designed to be removable for easy cleaning. Built with 2x3s and 1/2-inch plywood, each box measured approximately one cubic foot. The roosts, made from 1x3s, were positioned to maximize comfort and space.
Step 10: Final Aesthetic Touches
Since we live in a densely populated neighborhood, we wanted our coop to look appealing. A flower box made from rot-resistant cedar was attached to the run frame, allowing us to grow herbs and flowers.
Note: For future builds, we would pre-paint all wood before assembly to ensure better weatherproofing and efficiency.
Other Details Display
- Predator Protection: Hardware cloth installation method and perimeter burying technique.
- Weather Considerations: Placement in shade, roofing material selection.
- Coop Accessibility: Doors for easy access to eggs and cleaning.
- Dog Interaction: Gradual introduction to prevent stress on chickens.
Summary
Building our backyard chicken coop was an incredibly rewarding experience. Designed with aesthetics, durability, and practicality in mind, our coop has provided a safe and comfortable home for our hens while fitting beautifully into our backyard.
If you’re considering raising backyard chickens, a well-planned coop is essential for their well-being and ease of maintenance. Happy chicken keeping!
This plan is contribution by [WoeiHaveChicken]. If you have a plan to share, we welcome your submissions!
Joseph Hudson has been raising chickens for over 15 years. In 2018, he completed the Agriculture & Natural Resources program at Mt. San Antonio College. He currently raises over 1400 chickens on his 7.5-hectare farm. He keeps sharing his experience on raising healthy and happy chickens on Chicken Scratch The Foundry.
