When we decided we needed a larger chicken coop, we realized that purchasing a pre-built one wasn’t the most cost-effective option. After some thought, we decided to take on the challenge of building our own. We didn’t have to start from scratch, though.
We found an ideal solution in a shed kit from 2×4 Basics. These kits don’t come with everything you might expect — but they do provide you with sturdy brackets that help guide you to build the walls and roof at the correct angles. With that, the rest was up to us. The following is our journey of transforming a simple shed into a practical, functional chicken coop.
Step 1: Starting with a Solid Foundation
Before diving into the actual build, we knew we needed a solid base to support the entire structure. The shed kit recommended an 8×12 floor, but we wanted to replicate the sturdiness of the traditional pre-built sheds that are often set up on 4×4 runners. This added a bit of flexibility in case we ever needed to move the coop in the future.
Here’s what we did:
- Cut the ends of the runners at a 45-degree angle to help distribute the weight evenly.
- Added 45-degree braces to prevent any twisting in the frame.
- We also doubled the joists on the front side for added strength, ensuring that the front could handle being pulled if necessary.
By the end of this step, we had a solid base that could support the entire coop structure, while giving us some future flexibility.
Step 2: Getting Everything Level and Square
At this stage, it was crucial to ensure that the base was level and square, as any mistake here would compound through the rest of the build. We took time to make sure the four corners were all level using paver blocks and wood shims to adjust the height as needed.
To square the frame, we used the diagonal measurement method: measuring from one corner to the opposite corner, and then doing the same for the other two corners. If the measurements didn’t match, we adjusted the frame until they did. This helped ensure a perfectly square base that was also level on all sides.
Step 3: Laying the Floor
Next up was covering the floor. Given that the floor of a chicken coop is exposed to moisture and waste, we chose marine-grade plywood for its durability and moisture resistance. Instead of nailing the plywood down, we opted for screws, which help to prevent any potential warping over time.
Once the plywood was secured, we applied several coats of outdoor enamel. This type of paint resists moisture and is durable enough to withstand regular cleaning. Be sure to allow each coat to cure properly before applying the next, as this ensures the best results. While other options like linoleum or sticky tiles could work, we found that paint was the most efficient and cost-effective solution for us.
Step 4: Gathering the Right Lumber
The shed kit we purchased included specific instructions on what materials were required, along with exact measurements for each piece of lumber. One of the great things about this kit is that there are no complicated angles to cut—everything is cut to length. We used a chop saw for the job, making sure to measure twice before cutting.
Our best advice here? Stick to the old saying: “Measure twice, cut once.” Accuracy in this step will save you time and effort later.
Step 5: Assembling the Walls and Rafters
With the floor in place, it was time to start building the walls and roof structure. The kit’s brackets made assembling the walls easy—each wall stud was mounted to the base with its own bracket. Rather than nailing the studs into the brackets, we chose to use 1 ¼-inch screws, which made the structure even more secure.
Be sure to carefully follow the instructions at this stage, even though it might seem a bit confusing at times. Trust the process, and double-check that all pre-cut pieces are seated properly into the brackets.
Step 6: Framing the Ends and Adapting for a Coop
With the walls and rafters standing, we moved on to framing the ends. This included adding horizontal boards across the top of the walls and installing a ridge board for the roof. While the kit provided instructions for this, we began making modifications at this point to suit our needs as a chicken coop rather than a simple shed.
We added two long perches (12 feet each) along both sides of the coop, positioned about 18 inches off the ground. We also framed an opening at the far end of the shed, which would eventually become the chicken door.
Step 7: Ensuring Proper Ventilation and Light
Ventilation and light are critical in a chicken coop. Without enough airflow, heat and ammonia can build up, both of which are harmful to chickens. We installed two windows to allow natural light into the coop, and these windows also served as a vital source of ventilation.
The windows were sourced from Lowes, designed for mobile home bathrooms, and we modified them slightly to fit. Importantly, we planned to leave the windows open most of the time, but to protect the chickens from predators, we covered them with hardware cloth, which was secured using the trim pieces.
Chickens need sunlight to maintain egg production, especially during the winter months. The more natural light we could provide, the better.
Step 8: Addressing Heat with Proper Venting
With the windows installed, we moved on to ensuring proper air circulation. We added vent covers to the opposite side of the coop, placed high on the walls. This allows warm air to escape, promoting cross-ventilation when used in combination with the windows. Again, we secured these vents with trim pieces to prevent them from being pried open.
Step 9: Installing the Roof
For the roof, we chose shingles—though a metal roof would have worked just as well. The roofing process was a bit of a family affair, with our son helping us. It was his first time installing shingles, and we were impressed with his work. He did an excellent job!
When choosing roofing material, consider your local climate. Things like wind direction, snow load, and water runoff are important factors that can influence the performance of your roof.
Step 10: Trim and Paint
Once the structure was mostly complete, we focused on the finishing touches. The trim added both functionality and aesthetic appeal. We used treated 1×3-inch boards around the edges and along the windows to secure the hardware cloth. The door also received a bit of extra care with trim pieces to help maintain its square shape and secure the hinges and latches.
At this stage, we also applied the final coats of paint, making sure everything was sealed and protected.
Step 11: The Chicken Door and Ramp
One of the more unique adaptations for our coop was the chicken door and ramp. We had already framed the space for the chicken door earlier on, and now it was time to install it. The door operates on a pulley system, which allows us to open and close it from the outside with a string.
The ramp, made from leftover sheeting scraps, was designed to help the chickens easily enter and exit. We also added some trim pieces to create treads on the ramp.
Step 12: Adding the Chicken Run
To complete the coop, we set up an outdoor chicken run using a 10×10 dog kennel. The roof was supported by two 10-foot fencing rails, and we added a shade cloth for extra protection. To block out road noise and keep the chickens calm, we covered one side of the run with a camo tarp. A few wooden perches were added for the chickens to play on, and we later set up a platform for food and water.
Final Thoughts: The Cost and Time Commitment
Building our chicken coop from a shed kit was a rewarding experience, though not without its challenges. The entire project, including the coop and run, cost us approximately:
- $1300 for the shed (including kit and materials)
- $350 for the chicken run
The entire project took us about 6 days to complete, with much of that time spent waiting for paint to dry. We had three adults working on the project, which made it manageable.
We hope this guide has been helpful in showing you how we built our chicken coop from a shed kit. If you found this post useful, please consider subscribing to our YouTube channel, Bumble Bee Junction, where we share more tips and updates on our homestead. Your support means the world to us—thank you!
Project Via Instructables – Get the PDF Instructions here.
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.
