How to notch a 2x4 as a roof stud or perch

[Sunshine Flock]

I'll venture on over to YouTube when I have time, but I prefer asking here.

I'm building a proper perch for the flock at long last, versus what I've been using, and need to notch 2x4s to accommodate thick manzanita branches, which I will then screw down nice and tight.

With the branches on top of the 2x4 supports, I'll mark either side with a pen and probably saw down to a certain depth, and then saw thin sections and chisel out the pieces. I'm thinking a dremel will help shape it enough for the curve of the branch.

But are there other options for doing this for someone who only has basic tools?

Thanks!

 

[Rob Tof]

Use a 2x4 cut it about 6 inches. Drill out a hole in both 2x4 and the branch. Put the 2x4 on one end. Then measure with of coop remove 1 1/2 in for 2x4. Drill 2 or 3 holes in 2x4 pieces and screw into walls to hang perches.

 

[Sunshine Flock]

Use a 2x4 cut it about 6 inches. Drill out a hole in both 2x4 and the branch. Put the 2x4 on one end. Then measure with of coop remove 1 1/2 in for 2x4. Drill 2 or 3 holes in 2x4 pieces and screw into walls to hang perches.

I don't think this will work for my coop, since the walls are siding. But for future reference are you saying to suspend the branch between blocks of 2x4s, screw together, then screw the 2x4 pieces into either wall?

Manzanita is quite heavy, but good idea, thank you.

 

[TalkALittle]

Are you looking to build a ladder style roost with the 2x4s as the uprights and the branches as the rungs?

 

[Sunshine Flock]

Are you looking to build a ladder style roost with the 2x4s as the uprights and the branches as the rungs?

I really wrestled with the design, but I finally settled on a platform with two levels. It makes the most sense for the space.

Two arms will come out straight from the wall studs and be supported on perpendicular 2x4 legs. One perch will span the width and rest on either arm, and then two pieces of 2x4s will act as arms coming up from behind the lower perch and do the same thing.

Ugh, I'm not describing that very well. I've seen this done before. It's like the framework for bookshelves, minus the shelves, and the second level is set back further.

 

[Fairview01]

Keep it simple.

Build your roosting platform, lay whatever that stuff is across the supports, use a sharpie and mark the outside edges, saw about 1/3 way into the 2x4, wack the notch out with a screwdriver and hammer, lay branch in notch, anchor with a 3" deck screw through the branch and into the 2x4.

This isn't fine cabinetry and chickens have a low standard on cosmetics on a job.

 

[Sunshine Flock]

Keep it simple.

Build your roosting platform, lay whatever that stuff is across the supports, use a sharpie and mark the outside edges, saw about 1/3 way into the 2x4, wack the notch out with a screwdriver and hammer, lay branch in notch, anchor with a 3" deck screw through the branch and into the 2x4.

This isn't fine cabinetry and chickens have a low standard on cosmetics on a job.

I hate Pinterest. It's ruined me for life.

So, roger that. Keep it simple.

I'll post a photo when I'm done. The manzanita may not work depending on the curves in the branches. They're cured wood, not green, cut from an abundance of it on our land.

 

[cavemanrich]

Here is another option to keep it simple. Can you drill a 1/4 inch hole thru branch and 2x4. ??? Use a 1/4 inch bolt/nut and tighten the 2 together. No need to notch anything. Chickens are not chimpanzees. If the length is kind of long, then get a 1/4 threaded rod. It comes in 3 foot lengths or longer at the hardware store. Cut to size with a hacksaw. It would also make a nice fit if you flattened the branch surface where it meets the 2x4.
WISHING YOU BEST.....

 

[Sunshine Flock]

Here is another option to keep it simple. Can you drill a 1/4 inch hole thru branch and 2x4. ??? Use a 1/4 inch bolt/nut and tighten the 2 together. No need to notch anything. Chickens are not chimpanzees. If the length is kind of long, then get a 1/4 threaded rod. It comes in 3 foot lengths or longer at the hardware store. Cut to size with a hacksaw. It would also make a nice fit if you flattened the branch surface where it meets the 2x4.
WISHING YOU BEST.....

Flatten the underside, duh! Good suggestion. I've never drilled manzanita before, but I'm about to learn. I'm using it as a door handle on the coop and for the run. It's beautiful wood but checks easily. We'll see how it goes!

 

[cavemanrich]

If you decide to just flatten the branch surface , and use deck screws, I suggest pre-drilling the branch for the screws. It prevents branch from splitting.