Planning
I had a few ideas of what I wanted (in a way). I wanted the run to be enclosed from most of the elements, while allowing the chickens to have ample amount of airflow. Full disclosure, I really didn't know the importance of air flow until speaking with several BYC users. Thanks for explaining it and how crucial it is to have.
I spent many nights (probably 4+ months) looking at different coop builds. I was searching for the "correct" way to build it and house my chickens. After reading and talking with folks, I discovered there is no "one" way to have your chicken setup. I learned what works for one person may not work for someone else. It really boils down to each persons needs and what they want to get out of it. I wanted enough space to grow my flock up to max 24, but also not too big, where it would have a lot of empty space and use more resources to keep it heated in the winter time.
The farmer next to me really helped with the planning. Our land has a small slope to one side of the yard. When it rains, all the water goes to the one side (yes, the side where I built my coop) and sits. It's NOT too bad, but overtime the farmer told me I would deal with a really muddy mess (like he does with his), and suggested I build a foundation with 6x6's and gravel. This will raise me up several inches above ground, but also give me a flat even surface to build from.
Here is what I came up with after talking with the wife and farmer J:
I spent many nights (probably 4+ months) looking at different coop builds. I was searching for the "correct" way to build it and house my chickens. After reading and talking with folks, I discovered there is no "one" way to have your chicken setup. I learned what works for one person may not work for someone else. It really boils down to each persons needs and what they want to get out of it. I wanted enough space to grow my flock up to max 24, but also not too big, where it would have a lot of empty space and use more resources to keep it heated in the winter time.
The farmer next to me really helped with the planning. Our land has a small slope to one side of the yard. When it rains, all the water goes to the one side (yes, the side where I built my coop) and sits. It's NOT too bad, but overtime the farmer told me I would deal with a really muddy mess (like he does with his), and suggested I build a foundation with 6x6's and gravel. This will raise me up several inches above ground, but also give me a flat even surface to build from.
Here is what I came up with after talking with the wife and farmer J:
- Raised foundation so we don't have to deal with a muddy mess.
- Walk-in coop and run
- Easy way to clean and maintain the bedding and poop
- Raised nest boxes that allow us to collect the eggs from outside (especially if we are not home, it will be easier to ask someone to collect them for us)
- Fully enclosed and safe from predators.
- Great ventilation. The more the better.
- Electric to have lights at night, heating lamps for very cold winter days, and cameras.
- A porch! Well, because porches look cool, lol!
- According to my wife, does not look ugly or trashy!!!
- Next page: Design
- Previous page: Brooder & Chicks
