Building A Chicken Coop: What's The Cost?

The cost of building a chicken coop can vary depending on several factors, including design, materials, type of flooring, size, and whether you hire a professional or do it yourself. On average, most people spend around $600 for an 18 sq. ft. coop with a 90-foot run to hold 6 chickens, but costs can range from $100 to $4,000 or more. If you're handy and want to save money, you can build a coop yourself for around half the price of a ready-made coop, but this will require know-how, tools, and time. For a professionally-built coop, you can expect to pay around $650 on average, with most homeowners spending between $300 and $2,000.

Cost of materials

The cost of materials for building a chicken coop can vary depending on the type of materials used, the size of the coop, and the desired level of durability. Here is a breakdown of the potential costs:

Softwood framing lumber is an inexpensive option for walls and roofing, typically costing $2–$3 per board foot. PVC, or cellular polyvinyl chloride, is a durable option that costs about $5–$6 per linear foot. Pressure-treated lumber is a relatively affordable and rot-resistant option, priced at $7–$10 per board foot. Vinyl flooring for the coop floor can range from $2 to $8 per square foot, while wooden board or slat board flooring costs around $7–$9 per board foot.

For those who want to build a larger coop, walk-in chicken coops typically cost around $650, while all-in-one chicken coops with a living area and a walk-in run average $2,000 but can go up to $4,000 or more. Prefabricated chicken coop kits are usually more affordable than custom options, but they offer less flexibility in layout and may be less durable.

The cost of materials can also depend on whether you choose to use new or recycled materials. Building a chicken coop from scratch or using a kit will generally cost about half the price of a ready-made coop.

In addition to the cost of materials, there may be additional expenses for tools and labour. It is important to plan and set a budget to avoid spending more than intended on constructing a chicken coop.

Cost of labour

The cost of labour for building a chicken coop can vary depending on several factors, including the size, design complexity, materials used, and whether you hire a professional or do it yourself (DIY).

If you decide to build the chicken coop yourself, the cost of labour will be significantly reduced. However, you will need to have the necessary skills, tools, and time to complete the project. Building a chicken coop kit, which requires assembly, can also save on labour costs but may cost hundreds of dollars depending on the size and quality of the kit.

On the other hand, hiring a professional to build a custom chicken coop will increase the labour costs. The price of hiring a carpenter is around $70 per hour, with simple designs taking about 5 to 6 hours and more elaborate designs taking up to 5 to 6 days. For a basic 6-chicken coop, you can expect to pay around $350 in labour costs.

The national average cost of building a chicken coop is $650, with most people spending between $300 and $2,000. However, prices can range from $100 to $4,000 or more, depending on the factors mentioned above.

In addition to labour costs, you will also need to consider the cost of materials. Softwood framing lumber is inexpensive and readily available for roofing and walls, costing $2 to $3 per board foot. PVC, or cellular polyvinyl chloride, is a durable option costing about $5 to $6 per linear foot. Pressure-treated lumber is affordable and rot-resistant, ranging from $7 to $10 per board foot. Flooring options include vinyl, plywood, wooden board, and rubberized roofing material, with prices ranging from $2 to $9 per square foot.

Overall, the cost of labour for building a chicken coop will depend on your specific needs and preferences, as well as your level of expertise and willingness to take on the project yourself.

Size of the coop

The size of your chicken coop will depend on the number of chickens you plan to keep, their breed and size, and the amount of space you have available. It's important to provide enough space for your chickens to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to stress, pecking behaviours, and the spread of parasites and diseases.

As a general rule, one chicken needs between 2 and 4 square feet of space inside the coop. For three chickens, you'll need 9 to 12 square feet, and for a flock of 10 chickens, you'll need at least 30 square feet. If your chickens are smaller breeds or will spend most of their time outdoors, you can build a smaller coop. However, if they'll be confined to the coop for most of the day, it's recommended to provide at least 5 square feet per chicken, or even more if possible.

• For 6 medium-sized chickens, a coop should be at least 18 square feet, with interior dimensions of 4'x5' or larger.
• For 8 chickens, the interior space should be at least 24 square feet, with dimensions of 4'x6'.
• For 15 chickens, plan for around 42-48 square feet of interior space, with dimensions of 6'x7' or 6'x8'.
• For 20 chickens or more, consider a larger coop with 8'x12' or 10'x12' dimensions, providing 96 to 120 square feet of space.

In addition to floor space, you'll also need to consider roosting and nesting space. Standard chicken breeds require 8" per chicken for roosting, while heavy breeds need 12" per chicken. For nesting boxes, plan for one box per 4 to 5 hens, with dimensions of 12" x 12" x 18" for standard breeds and 14" x 14" x 20" for heavy breeds.

Design of the coop

The design of your chicken coop will depend on several factors, including the number of chickens, the available space, and your budget. Here are some key considerations for designing a functional and comfortable chicken coop:

Size and Space:

The size of the coop should be determined by the number of chickens you plan to keep. As a general rule, each chicken requires between three and four square feet of space inside the coop. For example, if you plan to keep three chickens, aim for a coop that is at least nine to twelve square feet. If you have smaller breeds or chickens that will spend most of their time outdoors, you can opt for a smaller coop. Additionally, consider the space available in your yard or property for the coop.

Ventilation and Drainage:

Adequate ventilation is crucial for the health and comfort of your chickens. Ensure that the coop design allows for proper airflow, with windows or other openings to promote air circulation. Proper drainage is also essential to keep the coop dry and comfortable for the chickens. Consider elevating the floor slightly to facilitate drainage and keep the coop clean and sanitary.

Predator Protection:

Protecting your chickens from predators is a critical aspect of coop design. Use hardware cloth instead of chicken wire to cover openings, as it provides better protection against predators while still allowing ventilation. Snake mesh at the bottom of the coop can also help deter snakes from entering. A double-door system with a "foyer" area can provide added security, especially if you have other pets that might pose a threat to the chickens.

Nesting Boxes and Roosting Areas:

Provide nesting boxes for egg-laying and sleeping. Place them in a well-designed and easily accessible location within the coop. You can use curtains made of burlap or other materials in front of the nesting boxes to create a sense of safety and privacy for the hens. Additionally, ensure that the coop has adequate roosting areas for the chickens to rest and sleep.

Flooring and Insulation:

The type of flooring you choose will depend on your preferences and budget. Concrete slabs make a great floor for the chicken coop, providing a sturdy and easy-to-clean surface. If you opt for a dirt floor, use stall bedding and regularly add new bedding on top to facilitate composting and generate some heat during winter. Insulating the coop is essential, especially in extreme weather conditions. You can use recycled windows and corrugated plastic to help regulate the temperature and provide passive solar gain.

Maintenance and Accessibility:

Design the coop with easy cleaning and maintenance in mind. Include features that facilitate cleaning, such as removable trays or flooring that can be hosed down. Ensure you have easy access to the coop for feeding, cleaning, and collecting eggs. If you plan to have a medium to small coop, consider designing it so that you can easily enter and move around with a large bucket.

These considerations will help guide your chicken coop design, ensuring that your chickens have a safe, comfortable, and functional space to call home.

Maintenance costs

One of the most significant maintenance costs for chicken coops is hiring a local handyman or carpenter to perform repairs and maintenance tasks. The hourly rate for this type of work can range from $60 to $100, depending on the complexity of the tasks and the local cost of labor. It is recommended to hire a professional to ensure the coop is sturdy and durable, providing safe housing for your chickens.

Another factor that contributes to maintenance costs is the choice of materials. Chicken coops can be constructed from various materials, including plywood, lumber, metal, and plastic. The cost of these materials can vary, with plywood costing between $10 and $20 per sheet, metal sheets ranging from $15 to $20 per sheet, and plastic sheeting costing between $25 and $30 per sheet. Mesh or wire is also commonly used in chicken coops, which can add to the overall material costs.

Additionally, regular cleaning and parasite prevention are essential for maintaining a healthy environment for your chickens. This includes treating for lice, mites, and other parasites, which can be done using diatomaceous earth in the chicken's dust bath and inside the coop. Cleaning products and pest control solutions can add to the ongoing maintenance costs of the chicken coop.

The size and complexity of the chicken coop can also impact maintenance costs. Larger coops with more intricate designs may require more time and effort to maintain, increasing the overall maintenance expenses. Furthermore, the number of chickens housed in the coop can influence maintenance costs, as a larger flock may require more frequent cleaning and parasite treatments.

In summary, the maintenance costs of a chicken coop can vary depending on various factors, including the size, design, materials, and labor required for repairs and upkeep. By considering these factors and budgeting accordingly, you can ensure that your chicken coop remains in good condition and provides a safe and healthy environment for your chickens.

Frequently asked questions