DIY Backyard Chicken Coop: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to the ultimate guide to constructing a backyard chicken coop that will provide a safe and comfortable home for your feathered friends. With detailed instructions and innovative features, you'll learn how to create a well-maintained and easy-to-clean coop that reflects your style and meets the needs of your chickens. Let's get started on this rewarding building project!

Inspired by the exceptional design of Chris's famed 'Third Coast Craftsman' coop, we embarked on a journey to build our own backyard sanctuary, tailored to the specific needs of our six chickens. Witness the fascinating conversation and insightful exchange as we navigate the construction process, sharing lessons learned and valuable tips.

Throughout this guide, you'll encounter practical insights and helpful hints that will empower you to make informed decisions and customize your coop to suit your unique requirements. From efficient material choices to clever design solutions, we've got you covered!

Framing the Walls and Roof

The journey commenced with a pile of massive two-by-fours, destined to transform into smaller components. Armed with a miter saw, we diligently sliced and diced, shaping these hefty timbers into the essence of the coop's framework.

Unlike our typical projects, rough lumber met its match in the absence of milling. With precision and patience, we meticulously cut construction lumber to exact lengths, orchestrating a symphony of structural integrity.

Joining these architectural elements, a framing nailer proved its prowess, swiftly and securely connecting the framework. As the walls and roof took shape, we marveled at the efficiency and precision of this trusted tool.

Incorporating a slanted roof, we meticulously measured and cut angles into the studs, ensuring proper water drainage and ventilation. After much deliberation, we settled on a 15-degree angle, striking a balance between aesthetics and functionality.

Anticipating a spacious access door, we refrained from extending studs to the ground, except for the front, which we fortified with a double layer for enhanced stability. Consistency reigned supreme as the stud spacing and angles mirrored those on the opposite side.

The front wall echoed the angled motif, gracefully accommodating two small shed windows. To ensure a flush fit, we meticulously cut a 15-degree angle on the header board's edge, seamlessly aligning it with the angled studs.

With great care, we assembled the walls on the bench, ensuring squareness at every turn. The pre-assembly process proved invaluable, expediting the construction process and maintaining structural integrity.

Constructing the Run

Venturing into the garage, the walls of the run unveiled their impressive 10-foot length. Space constraints dictated this strategic relocation due to our limited shop floor area.

To provide a sturdy base for these towering structures, we employed pressure-treated lumber, resilient to the elements and prolonged contact with the ground.

The slanted roof of the run, designed with a gentle slope, ensured ample headroom while preventing water accumulation. Its 8-foot height at the front gradually transitioned to a lower height at the back, accommodating our elevation preferences.

Adding a touch of elegance, we opted for crisscross bracing on the door using flat joints. This intricate design, requiring no mathematical calculations, lent both visual appeal and structural support.

To provide a strong foundation for the coop, we utilized 4×4 posts as the primary supports. With precision, we imparted a 15-degree angle on the top of each post, creating a uniform and sloping roofline.

Joining the front and back posts, we employed two main horizontal supports. To achieve optimal strength, these supports were meticulously crafted by uniting two two-by-fours.

For secure attachment, we relied on pocket screws, ensuring a solid connection between the posts and the horizontal supports. This technique provided peace of mind and guaranteed the longevity of our structure.

To complete the framework, we installed additional supports in the middle, utilizing scrap wood for temporary alignment. With the base now complete, it was time to lay the flooring.

To provide a dry and comfortable environment for our feathered residents, we opted for a base of sand, spreading it several inches deep. To prevent floor sagging over time, we reinforced it with two-by-four supports.

The floor, a single sheet of OSB, fit perfectly into the designated space, requiring minimal adjustments. Its presence further solidified the overall structure of our coop.

Assembling the Nesting Box and Exterior Siding

The nesting box, a dedicated space for egg-laying, occupied the final 12 inches of the coop. To ensure ample room for our six hens, we divided the space into four generous sections, each measuring 12 to 14 inches in width.

For the exterior siding, we selected T11 panels, known for their rustic appeal and durability. Each panel was precisely cut to size using a track saw, ensuring a seamless fit on the coop's framework.

To facilitate easy panel placement, we temporarily attached a two-by-four ledge to the coop's base. This clever technique helped align and secure the panels as we fastened them to the framework.

With the panels in place, the coop transformed into a sturdy and weather-resistant structure. Its solid construction provided us with confidence in its ability to withstand the elements and protect our hens.

Suddenly, a realization struck us: we had neglected to create sides for the nesting box. Swiftly, we attached OSB to the vertical supports, sectioning off each nesting space for privacy and convenience.

To match the angled walls, we opted to use a flush trim bit on our router to cut the siding panels. This technique proved both efficient and precise, although it generated a blizzard of sawdust.

The final touch: a fresh coat of paint, meticulously applied to enhance the coop's aesthetic appeal and protect it from the elements. As the paint dried, we took a step back to admire our creation.

Installing Windows, Doors, and Trim

With the exterior complete, we turned our attention to the windows. From the inside of the coop, we carefully drilled pilot holes at each corner of the window frames, creating entry and exit points for our jigsaw.

The windows, once cut out, nestled perfectly into their designated openings and were securely fastened to the framework. These portals would provide ample natural light and ventilation for our chickens.

A note to self: staring at a freshly painted white surface in direct sunlight is akin to snow blindness. Next time, we'll cut out the windows before painting to avoid this visual discomfort.

For the back of the coop, we created an opening for the chicken door. Selecting an auto magic door, we marveled at its ability to open and close based on light levels or a preset schedule via a smartphone app. Convenience at our fingertips!

Adding the finishing touches, we trimmed the coop with 1×4 and 1×3 pine boards, ensuring a sleek and polished look. These trims were meticulously attached using a trim nailer and received additional touch-ups to conceal any exposed areas.

The nesting box received its own door, designed to swing down for easy access and cleanup. To secure it, we employed eye hooks on each side, ensuring it remained closed when not in use.

The side access door followed a similar construction, complete with barrel locks at the top and bottom for added security. With this final step, our coop was complete and ready for its feathered occupants.

Finishing Touches and Enhancements

As the coop neared completion, we focused on the final details that would elevate its functionality and aesthetics. To discourage predators and enhance security, we extended hardware cloth around the perimeter of the coop, creating a protective barrier.

Complementing the hardware cloth, we strategically placed large landscaping rocks and planted small shrubs. This landscaping not only beautified the surroundings but also deterred animals from digging underneath the coop.

To maximize ventilation and provide a safe haven for our chickens, we added hardware cloth to the windows. This modification allowed us to open the windows without compromising the coop's security or exposing our hens to predators.

With the coop complete, we couldn't resist adding a personal touch. Inspired by the iconic cartoon character, we painted a whimsical mural on the front, bringing a touch of humor and charm to our backyard sanctuary.

As we stepped back to admire our finished masterpiece, a sense of accomplishment filled the air. The backyard chicken coop, once a mere concept, had transformed into a reality, a testament to our dedication and passion for providing a comfortable and secure home for our feathered friends.

Conclusion

In this comprehensive guide, we embarked on a journey to build the ultimate backyard chicken coop, incorporating innovative features and practical solutions to create a safe and comfortable haven for our feathered companions. From framing the walls to installing the final touches, each step was meticulously captured, providing a valuable resource for anyone embarking on a similar project.