124+ Cheap Chicken Coop Australia

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Opening: Backyard Chickens and DIY Coops Thinking of adding chickens to your backyard? Getting fresh eggs daily is a fantastic perk, and chickens can be great for pest control and garden cleanup. However, they need a safe and secure home. Building your own chicken coop can be a rewarding project that saves money and allows you to customize the coop to your specific needs and space. This guide will walk you through the steps of building a basic and affordable chicken coop.

Materials and Tools: Before you start, gather the necessary materials and tools. This list provides a general idea, and you may need to adjust it based on your specific design.

Lumber (untreated pine or cedar are good choices for framing and siding)

Plywood sheets (for the roof and floor, if you choose to have one)

Chicken wire or hardware cloth (for the run)

Roofing material (shingles, metal sheets, or tar paper)

Nails and screws

Hinges and latches (for the door and nesting boxes)

Wood glue

Measuring tape

Saw (circular saw or handsaw)

Drill

Hammer

Staple gun

Safety glasses and gloves

Step 1: Planning and Design A well-thought-out plan is crucial for a successful build. Consider the following factors when designing your coop:

Number of chickens: A general rule is 4 square feet of coop space per chicken and 8-10 square feet of run space per chicken.

Location: Choose a level area with good drainage and partial shade. Consider proximity to your house and neighbors.

Predator protection: Ensure the coop is secure from predators like foxes, dogs, and raccoons. Bury the chicken wire a foot deep to prevent digging.

Nesting boxes: Provide one nesting box for every 3-4 chickens. A standard size is 12x12x12 inches.

Roosting bars: Chickens need roosting bars to sleep on. Provide about 8-10 inches of roosting space per chicken.

Ventilation: Good ventilation is essential to prevent moisture buildup and ammonia fumes.

Sketch out your design, including dimensions and material requirements.

Step 2: Building the Frame The frame provides the structural support for the coop.

Cut the lumber according to your plan.

Assemble the base frame using screws and wood glue. Ensure it is square and level.

Build the wall frames. Consider adding extra bracing for strength.

Attach the wall frames to the base frame.

Construct the roof frame. A slightly slanted roof will help with water runoff.

Secure the roof frame to the wall frames.

Step 3: Adding the Walls and Roof This step encloses the coop and provides protection from the elements.

Attach plywood sheets or siding to the wall frames.

Cut and attach the roofing material to the roof frame. Overlap the pieces properly to prevent leaks.

Install the door and secure it with hinges and a latch.

Add windows or vents for ventilation. Cover them with chicken wire to prevent predators from entering.

Step 4: Constructing the Run The run provides an outdoor space for the chickens to exercise and forage.

Build a frame for the run using lumber.

Attach chicken wire or hardware cloth to the frame.

Bury the chicken wire at least a foot deep to prevent digging predators.

Attach the run to the coop.

Add a door to the run for easy access.

Step 5: Interior Features These additions make the coop comfortable and functional for the chickens.

Build and install the nesting boxes. Place them in a dark and quiet area of the coop.

Install the roosting bars. Make sure they are sturdy and easy for the chickens to access.

Add a feeder and waterer.

Line the floor with bedding material such as straw or wood shavings.

Step 6: Final Touches and Safety Check Before introducing your chickens to their new home, perform a thorough safety check.

Inspect the coop for any sharp edges or protruding nails that could injure the chickens.

Ensure all latches and doors are secure.

Provide adequate shade and ventilation.

Consider painting or staining the coop to protect the wood from the elements (use non-toxic paint).

Conclusion: Enjoy Your DIY Chicken Coop Building your own chicken coop is a rewarding project that provides a safe and comfortable home for your flock. By following these steps, you can create a functional and affordable coop that will provide you with fresh eggs for years to come. Remember to research local regulations and building codes before starting your project.