Constructing A Walk-In Chicken Barn: A Step-By-Step Guide

Building a basic walk-in chicken barn is a great way to create a spacious and joyful home for your chickens. With basic construction skills and some planning, you can efficiently build a comfortable and safe space for your flock without incurring excessive costs or spending too much time. This guide will cover the key considerations and steps to help you get started on building your own chicken barn. From choosing the right materials to ensuring your chickens' safety and comfort, we'll provide you with the information you need to create a functional and happy home for your feathered friends.

Chicken coop design

Chicken coops can be designed in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences and requirements. Here are some key considerations and design tips for building a basic walk-in chicken barn:

Location and Size:

The first step is to determine the location of your chicken coop. It is advisable to build it on high ground to prevent issues with flooding and water accumulation. The size of your coop will depend on the number of chickens you plan to house. As a general rule of thumb, each chicken should have at least 3 to 4 square feet of space in the coop if they also have outdoor range space. If no outdoor space is available, it is recommended to provide 8 to 10 square feet per bird. For example, a 4'x8' walk-in coop with a 16'x8' run can comfortably accommodate 10 to 12 chickens.

Materials:

Chicken coops can be constructed using various materials, including wood, wire mesh, and metal. You can opt for new materials or repurpose old items. For instance, you could use an old door, sheets of plywood, lumber, or concrete blocks. Using repurposed materials can add character to your coop and reduce costs.

Design Features:

The following design features are important for the functionality and safety of your chicken coop:

• Flooring: To prevent snakes and other predators from entering, ensure the coop is raised 8 to 12 inches off the ground. Alternatively, consider a dirt floor with wire mesh underneath to deter digging predators.
• Doors: Install secure doors to prevent predators from breaking in. Use super-secure bolts, carabiners, padlocks, or spring latches instead of simple sliding latches.
• Windows and Vents: Cover windows and vents with 1/4-inch welded wire to secure them from predators while allowing ventilation.
• Nesting Boxes: Provide nesting boxes for egg-laying and sleeping. These can be placed in a separate back area to keep them quiet and private.
• Perches: Install perches inside the coop for the chickens to rest and sleep.
• Roof: Design a slanted roof for drainage, and consider adding a charming metal roof for aesthetic appeal.
• Chicken Run: Construct a fenced "chicken run" attached to the coop to provide an enclosed outdoor space for your chickens to roam safely during the day. Ensure it is predator-proof to protect against daytime threats such as dogs, foxes, hawks, and eagles.

By considering these design aspects, you can create a functional and safe walk-in chicken barn that suits your specific needs.

Materials needed

A basic walk-in chicken barn can be constructed using a variety of materials, depending on your preferences and budget. Here is a list of materials that you will need:

Structural Components

• Lumber: This is the primary material for the frame and structure of the barn. Pressure-treated lumber is recommended for the legs of the coop to prevent rotting. Ensure you have enough lumber to create a sturdy frame.
• Plywood: Plywood sheets can be used in conjunction with lumber to create the walls and roof of the barn.
• Concrete Blocks: These provide a solid foundation for the barn and can be used to elevate the structure, keeping it dry and protected from pests.
• Wire Mesh or Hardware Cloth: Use wire mesh or hardware cloth with small openings, such as 1/2-inch welded wire, to enclose the barn and prevent predators from entering. Bury the wire mesh at least 1 foot underground to prevent digging predators from gaining access.

Doors and Entryways

• Doors: You will need a people door for yourself and a smaller chicken door for the chickens to easily enter and exit the barn. Consider repurposing an old door you may have.
• Hinges and Latches: Secure doors with sturdy hinges and latches. Use super-secure bolts instead of staples for added security.
• Carabiners or Padlocks: For enhanced security, consider using carabiners or padlocks on the exterior doors to prevent predators from gaining access.

Interior Features

• Perches: Install perches inside the barn for the chickens to roost and sleep.
• Nesting Boxes: Provide nesting boxes for optimal egg production and comfort.
• Insulation (optional): Depending on your climate, you may want to insulate the barn to maintain a comfortable temperature for the chickens.

Remember to plan the size of your barn according to the number of chickens you intend to house, allowing for adequate space. You can also repurpose existing structures or materials, such as old fencing or wooden playsets, to reduce costs and add character to your chicken barn.

Building process

Building a basic walk-in chicken barn requires only basic construction skills and can be done affordably. Here is a step-by-step guide to building a basic walk-in chicken barn:

Firstly, decide on the location of your chicken barn. It is recommended to build your chicken coop on high ground to avoid flooding and water or moisture buildup. In warmer climates, consider building your pen under some trees, while in colder climates, positioning your barn in full sun is ideal.

Next, gather your materials. You can use basic materials such as repurposed or new plywood, lumber, and concrete blocks. Using repurposed materials can add character to your barn and save costs. Ensure you have enough materials for the size of the barn you plan to build.

Now, start constructing the frame. If you're building inside an existing barn, you can use the poles to build the walls. For example, if your barn poles are 8' apart, buy 8' lumber to frame out the walls. Ensure your frame is sturdy and secure, using pressure-treated lumber for the legs if possible.

After framing, you can start enclosing the barn. For windows and vents, use 1/2- or 1/4-inch welded wire instead of chicken wire for better security. Use super-secure bolts, and consider using carabiners, padlocks, or spring latches for doors and hinged nesting box lids.

Finally, add the finishing touches. Install nesting boxes, perches, and any other desired features. Ensure your barn is predator-proof by burying hardware cloth around the perimeter and covering any remaining gaps with chicken wire.

Your basic walk-in chicken barn is now ready for your flock to move in!

Chicken run

A chicken run is a fenced area attached to a chicken coop, where your chickens can roam around outdoors while remaining safe from predators. The size of your chicken run will depend on the size of your flock. The general rule of thumb is to allow a minimum of 10 square feet of outdoor run space for each chicken. For example, if you have 10 chickens, you should plan a pen that is at least 10 x 10 feet or 100 square feet. If no outdoor range space is available, chickens should have more room inside the coop to spread out. In this case, experts recommend providing between 8 and 10 square feet of space per bird.

Chicken wire is not recommended for securing windows and vents. Instead, use 1/2- or 1/4-inch welded wire. Use super-secure bolts, carabiners, padlocks, or spring latches to secure doors and hinged exterior nesting box lids. Do not use a simple sliding deadbolt or latch.

When building a chicken coop, it is important to use the right materials and techniques to keep your chickens safe from predators. The coop must be raised 8 to 12 inches off the ground to prevent snakes and other predators from breaking in from underneath. Most chicken owners build the legs of the coop with pressure-treated lumber. You can theoretically use non-pressure-treated lumber if the legs sit on bricks or concrete and are not in direct contact with the ground.

Coop maintenance

To maintain the chicken coop, it is important to regularly clean the space. The chicken coop should have wide access doors to facilitate easy cleaning. A spacious coop will allow for easier access to nesting boxes for egg collection. A well-maintained coop will ensure the safety and health of the chickens.

The chicken coop should be built on high ground to avoid flooding and water damage. The coop must also be raised off the ground to prevent snakes and other predators from breaking in. The legs of the coop can be built with pressure-treated lumber to elevate the structure. This will also help to keep the wood from rotting.

It is recommended to use welded wire to secure open windows and vents, and super-secure bolts to fasten the structure. Carabiners, padlocks, or spring latches should be used to secure doors and prevent predators from entering.

The chicken coop should be insulated to maintain moderate temperatures for the chickens. While chickens can survive cold winters, insulation will help regulate the temperature and protect against drafts and overheating. Certain breeds may require more insulation depending on the climate.

Regular maintenance of the chicken coop will ensure the well-being of the flock and extend the lifespan of the structure.

Frequently asked questions