60+ Chicken Coop Size Calculator Australia

Raising chickens 101: a beginner's guide to chickens

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Introduction: Building Your Own Chicken Coop Want fresh eggs every morning? Raising chickens in your backyard is a rewarding experience. Building your own chicken coop allows you to customize it to your specific needs and budget. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to constructing a functional and safe coop for your feathered friends.

Step 1: Planning and Design Before you start hammering, careful planning is crucial. Consider these factors:

Flock Size: Determine how many chickens you plan to keep. As a general rule, provide at least 4 square feet of coop space per bird and 8-10 square feet of outdoor run space per bird. For example, for 6 chickens you will need at least 24 square feet of coop space.
Location: Choose a well-drained area with partial shade, protected from prevailing winds. Consider proximity to your house for easy access but far enough away to minimize odor concerns.
Coop Style: Decide on a coop style that suits your space and aesthetic preferences. Options include A-frame coops, shed-style coops, and movable chicken tractors.
Local Regulations: Check your local ordinances regarding backyard chickens and coop construction.
Sketch a Design: Create a detailed sketch of your coop, including dimensions, materials, and features like nesting boxes, roosts, and a secure door.

Step 2: Gathering Materials Compile a list of necessary materials based on your design. Common materials include:

Lumber: Pressure-treated lumber for the base and framing, untreated lumber for the walls and roof.
Plywood or OSB: For the coop walls and roof sheathing.
Roofing Material: Asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or corrugated plastic.
Hardware Cloth: For the run to keep predators out. Avoid using chicken wire as it is not strong enough to deter many predators.
Nails and Screws: Various sizes for assembling the coop.
Hinges and Latches: For the door and nesting boxes.
Nesting Material: Straw, wood shavings, or shredded paper.
Paint or Stain (Optional): To protect the wood and improve aesthetics. Use non-toxic options specifically designed for outdoor use around animals.
Tools: Saw, drill, hammer, measuring tape, level, safety glasses, gloves.

Step 3: Building the Base The base provides a stable foundation for your coop.

Frame Construction: Build a rectangular frame using pressure-treated lumber. Ensure the frame is square and level.
Ground Contact: If the coop is directly on the ground, consider using a gravel base to improve drainage and prevent rot. For added protection, use concrete blocks or pavers underneath the frame.
Elevated Base (Optional): Building an elevated base on legs can improve ventilation and protect the coop from flooding.

Step 4: Framing the Walls Construct the walls of the coop.

Stud Placement: Install vertical studs every 16-24 inches to provide structural support.
Door and Window Openings: Frame openings for the door and windows, ensuring they are the correct size.
Wall Sheathing: Attach plywood or OSB to the frame, creating the coop's walls.
Cutouts: Cut holes for ventilation as needed.

Step 5: Building the Roof The roof protects your chickens from the elements.

Rafter Construction: Build rafters to support the roof. The angle of the rafters will determine the slope of the roof.
Roof Sheathing: Attach plywood or OSB to the rafters.
Roofing Material: Install your chosen roofing material according to the manufacturer's instructions. Overlap the material properly to prevent leaks.
Overhang: Create an overhang to protect the walls from rain.

Step 6: Adding Features Install the essential features that make your coop functional.

Nesting Boxes: Provide one nesting box for every 3-4 hens. Nesting boxes should be approximately 12x12x12 inches and placed in a dark, quiet area.
Roosts: Install roosts made of sturdy branches or 2x4 lumber, elevated at least 2 feet off the ground. Allow 8-10 inches of roost space per bird.
Door: Install a secure door with a latch to prevent predators from entering.
Windows: Install windows for natural light and ventilation. Cover windows with hardware cloth for added security.

Step 7: Building the Run The run provides a safe outdoor space for your chickens.

Framing: Build a frame using lumber.
Hardware Cloth: Enclose the run with hardware cloth, burying it at least 12 inches deep to prevent predators from digging under. Attach the hardware cloth securely to the frame.
Roofing (Optional): Add a roof to the run to protect your chickens from rain and sun. Use netting or hardware cloth for ventilation.
Connection: Create a secure connection between the coop and the run.

Step 8: Finishing Touches Complete the coop with these final steps.

Painting or Staining: Apply paint or stain to protect the wood and improve aesthetics.
Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and ammonia odors.
Bedding: Add bedding to the coop floor, such as straw, wood shavings, or shredded paper.
Food and Water: Place feeders and waterers inside the coop and run.
Security: Double-check all latches and connections to ensure the coop is predator-proof.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your New Chicken Coop! Congratulations on building your own chicken coop! With proper planning and construction, you've created a safe and comfortable home for your chickens. Enjoy the fresh eggs and the satisfaction of knowing you built it yourself. Remember to regularly clean and maintain the coop to ensure your chickens remain healthy and happy.