Attaching Chicken Runs: Grain Bin Considerations

Grain bins can be converted into chicken coops, and they can also be attached to existing coops to create a chicken run. One advantage of using a grain bin is its appearance; it can bring a nice 'farm-like' feeling to the space. Additionally, grain bins can be repurposed, which can be more cost-effective than buying a new one. When converting a grain bin into a chicken coop, it is important to consider ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, as chickens produce a lot of moisture. Chicken wire or netting can be used to protect chickens from predators while still allowing them to explore outside during the day.

Chicken wire and mesh

Chicken wire is typically made from galvanised steel or PVC-coated wire, woven into a hexagonal structure. This design offers flexibility, making it easy to work with and easy to cut to size. The PVC-coated variety features a green plastic coating that blends seamlessly into garden environments and provides protection against sharp edges, reducing potential harm to your chickens. Chicken wire is also available in various aperture sizes, including 13mm, 25mm, 31mm, and 50mm, allowing you to select the most appropriate size for your chicken coop and run setup.

When attaching chicken wire to your grain bin setup, you will need a range of tools and materials. These include wooden fence panels to create a frame, screws for assembly, hinges and U-pins/staples for constructing fencing and doorways, and wood chips to create a comfortable floor base for your chickens to roam and scratch. Additionally, you'll need a staple gun to attach the chicken wire fencing to the wooden panels securely. Ensure you have a spirit level to keep your frame straight and a ruler and pen for marking cut-out points on the panels. A drill or screwdriver will be essential for assembling the frame, and a hammer and pliers will be useful for adding and removing nails.

It is important to ensure that your chicken coop and run provide adequate ventilation. Chickens produce a lot of moisture, and poor ventilation can lead to moisture build-up, potentially affecting the health of your chickens. Therefore, when attaching chicken wire or mesh to your grain bin, consider the ventilation requirements and ensure there is sufficient airflow while still providing protection from the elements and potential predators.

By following these guidelines and using chicken wire or mesh effectively, you can create a functional and secure chicken run attached to your grain bin, providing your chickens with a safe and comfortable space to roam and forage.

Coop size

When it comes to coop size, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, the number of chickens you plan to keep will dictate the minimum space requirements. As a general rule, each chicken should have at least 4 square feet of space inside the coop and an additional 8 to 10 square feet of space in the attached run. However, more space is always better, as it promotes healthy chickens and reduces the likelihood of behavioural issues.

Secondly, the size of the grain bin you have available will determine the maximum size of your coop. Grain bins come in various sizes, and you can also add rings to the base to increase the height if needed. If you're repurposing an existing grain bin, measure the diameter and calculate the floor area to determine how much space you have to work with.

For example, if you have a grain bin with a 30-foot diameter, like the one mentioned in one project, you'll have 770 square feet of floor area. This is ample space for a large chicken coop, storage area, porch, and nesting boxes. On the other hand, if you're working with a smaller grain bin, you might need to adjust your plans or consider adding height with additional rings.

In addition to the size of the coop, it's important to provide adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup from the chickens' moisture output. You can achieve this through proper door and window placement, as well as vents at the top and bottom of the coop. Ensure that your coop is well-ventilated without creating drafts, as this can affect the chickens' ability to maintain their body temperature.

Finally, consider the layout of the coop within the grain bin. Think about the placement of nesting boxes, perches, and any other features you plan to include. Leave enough space for chickens to move around comfortably and access all areas of the coop. Remember that the grain bin itself provides a unique and aesthetically pleasing look to your chicken coop, so take advantage of its shape and features in your design.

Ventilation

When converting a grain bin into a chicken coop, it is important to consider the ventilation needs of the chickens. Grain bins can be well-insulated and may require additional vents or openings to ensure adequate airflow. The size and placement of the vents will depend on the specific design of the grain bin and the number of chickens it will house.

In addition to ventilation, it is important to consider moisture control in the coop. Moisture buildup can lead to damp bedding, bacterial growth, and respiratory issues for chickens. To prevent this, you can elevate the coop off the ground, slope the floor slightly towards the door for drainage, and use absorbent bedding materials like straw or pine shavings. Regularly cleaning and replacing wet bedding can also help maintain a dry and healthy environment for the chickens.

Another consideration for ventilation in a grain bin chicken coop is the need to prevent the buildup of harmful gases. Chicken coops can have high levels of ammonia due to chicken waste and respiratory gases. Proper ventilation can help dilute and remove these gases, improving the air quality for the chickens and reducing the risk of respiratory issues.

Finally, it is important to ensure that any ventilation openings are properly secured to prevent predators from entering the coop. This can include using hardware cloth or wire mesh over vents or installing predator-proof vents. By providing adequate ventilation and moisture control, you can create a healthy and comfortable environment for your chickens in your grain bin chicken coop.

Coop height

One source suggests that the height of the coop might help moist, ammonia-laden air rise above the birds. This is important because chickens produce a lot of moisture, and the coop needs to be well-ventilated to prevent this from becoming an issue. However, another source with a tall coop mention that they have to close the door every night to prevent their chickens from becoming prey to other animals, so it is possible that height could make the chickens more vulnerable to predators.

It is also worth noting that while one source mentions that their coop is "pretty high up", they do not provide specific measurements, so it is unclear how this height compares to other coops. Additionally, while height may help with ventilation, it is not the only factor to consider. The material of the coop also plays a role, as one source mentions that their tin shed sometimes condensates, and they expect more problems in warmer weather because of this.

Overall, while height may be a beneficial factor in preventing moisture buildup, it is important to consider other factors such as ventilation and the ease of access for the chickens when determining the ideal height for a chicken coop built from a grain bin.

Multipurpose use

Grain bins can be used for a variety of purposes, and are not just limited to storing grains. They can be repurposed to create aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces. One such innovative use is converting them into chicken coops. The process involves repurposing the grain bin to create a comfortable space for chickens, with nesting boxes, ventilation, and a run area.

The grain bin chicken coop can be designed to include a swinging door with chicken wire that opens into the coop, providing easy access for the chickens to explore during the day and ensuring their safety at night. The coop should be well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup from the chickens' moisture output. This can be achieved through proper door and window placement, as well as vents at the top and bottom of the structure.

The grain bin's large size offers ample storage space for tools, gardening equipment, and farming supplies. Additionally, the porch area can serve as a relaxing hangout space, providing a pleasant view of the surrounding landscape, including a pond or garden. The unique construction of the grain bin chicken coop, with its shiny exterior and farm-like appeal, adds to the charm of the space.

To enhance the functionality of the grain bin chicken coop, some owners have added a ring to the base for increased height, built stairs for the hens to reach the nesting boxes, and installed netting overhead to protect the chickens from predators like hawks and foxes. The multipurpose nature of the grain bin chicken coop allows for efficient utilisation of space, combining practical storage with the enjoyment of raising chickens.

Frequently asked questions