May 27th, 2009
Hey guys. Wade Here.
So I’ve basically given you a few tips to get started, and why it is important to design your simple chicken coop properly. Consequently, I’ve been flooded with emails from people asking me what design I think is best, or what guide should they get, etc etc. I did promise you guys that I would show you the exact design I used, and the exact guide I use to create chicken coops even today. For those that can’t wait and want to check out the guide now, you can check it out here:
Click here for the manual’s website
I have actually tried quite a few designs and guide books, and so far this one has my 2 thumbs up. And for those that know me, know that I don’t recommend things lightly - and only after I have thoroughly tried them.
It’s pretty simple to follow. Unless you want to get crazy with your chicken coop and build all sorts of “nick-nacks” and gadgets, the guide should be more than enough for your needs.
The only minor gripe I have is the fact that it comes with a bunch of “extra” stuff. It comes bundled with other chicken guides, such as how to raise them or feed them properly etc. The only reason this was a gripe is because I only wanted to know how to BUILD the chicken coop, not how to raise chickens. However, if your just starting out with this hobby - the bonuses would definitely come in handy. To each their own.
Honestly though, I wish I would have found the guide before I made all my “costly” mistakes. I seriously went through about 4 fullsize chicken coops only to realize I totally screwed something up. So take my word for it, GET A GOOD GUIDE. You’ll thank me later! Here is the link to the guide one more time:
Chicken Coop Guide
If you have any questions, let me know or leave a comment. I would love it if you guys would send me pictures of your coop so I can post them on the site for others to see.
I hope you found the information helpful =)
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May 27th, 2009
So you want to know how to build a simple chicken coop? Here are a few tips that should help get you started.
Tip #1 Use Quality Materials
Do not use scrapyard quality wood, thin breakable glass, and thin wire mesh to build your chicken coop. If you want the coop to last through several seasons, its always best to use mdf or hdf wood, thick plexi sliding windows, and thicker guage wire mesh. You can even treat the wood with a stain and rain resistant formula to ensure maximum longevity. The thick windows and wire mesh will keep your chickens safe should predators seek them out.
Tip #2 Build with Easy Maintenance in Mind
You should always design your chicken coop with easy maintenance in mind. Chicken coop owners can attest that cleaning the coop is a necessary evil and part of owning chickens. Make it easy on yourself. Build the lower floor so that it slopes downward toward the front door opening. This will ensure maximum drying and prevent puddling of water.
You should also choose a location that faces the sun, and is in a relatively high spot. This will also ensure maximum drying and prevent water from pooling and spoiling the wood holding your coop together.
These are just a couple tips to keep in mind. More to come!
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May 24th, 2009
Hey everyone, welcome to Build a Simple Chicken Coop.
My name is Wade and I build this little blog to help people that are interested in building their own chicken coop. A few years ago, my son and I started our very own chicken coop project. It was actually my wife’s idea, but I went along with it mainly because I thought it would be a good excuse to spend time with my son AJ.
Who knew I would actually have fun in the process? I really enjoyed building our chicken coop - however it wasn’t all fun and games. Being an engineer, I thought I could draw up my own design - without prior experience. BIG Mistake!
I ended up spending a lot more money and time because of my mistakes. Granted - I don’t think you need to be an expert carpenter or woodworker to build a chicken coop - you should always pick up a good design guide, or at least talk to someone who has experience with them.
Anyway, that’s all for now. Please check back, I plan to update the blog consistently!
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