How to Build Chicken Coops
HOW TO BUILD CHICKEN COOPS
So, you're planning to build chicken coops on you own? That's great! Plan well before constructing and you'll be well on your way to getting fresh, organic eggs! As for building chicken coops, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Plan, Plan, Plan! Take some time to select the right plan that suits your needs.
Look Around. Check your home, backyard or shed for materials such as old wood, that can come in handy while building chicken coops. If you don't find much at home, ask your neighbors if they have any spare wood lying around from their last construction. See if your plan has information on used materials. This step itself can save you hundreds of dollars, especially if you plan to build medium or large sized chicken coops!
Secondhand Stores. You can find lots of material from secondhand stores, such as hinges, roofing materials, handles, plywood, etc. But make sure they're in good condition.
Detailed Blueprint. Only used chicken coop plans that give you a specific blueprint with good cross-section pictures for guidance. Never ever start to build chicken coops without a plan or you're bound to end up in a mess.
Size it Right. Keep around 4 square feet for each chicken you plan to keep. Ten chickens needs a large chicken coop for housing them and providing enough room to move about. You might like to separate a portion of your backyard where your chickens can roam around freely. They'll love it and you'll end up with some great fertilizer!
Window Positioning. Sunlight filtering in from the windows of the chicken coops is important, so place the windows towards the sun. Natural sunlight will keep your chickens healthy and you won't need to invest in electrical lighting. Though chickens need sunlight, make sure that it doesn't shine directly on them. Windows play a huge role in keeping your chickens healthy and ensuring that they lay a number of eggs regularly, so give it enough thought before you start to build chicken coops.
Light Wise. When you build chicken coops, make sure that they face the sun. You see, when it's damp outside, the sun facing coops will stop the ground from getting oversaturated. A damp ground is not a good environment for chickens, since it can make them fall ill, not to mention the likelihood of bacterial growth! You might like to supplement natural light with artificial lighting in order to keep the chickens warm during winter.
These tips will help you to build chicken coops, but don't try to go it alone since some kind of guidance is needed. You might want to look for more info on How To Build Chicken Coops