Various Pointers To Help An Individual Understand How To Plan And Construct Cheap Chicken Coops

Written by Isaac Wood Friday, 26 August 2011 09:53

A rewarding weekend project is constructing a well-built hen-house. However, it can be expensive and that can be a deterrent to some, especially during these economic times. But if one could design and build cheap chicken coops, then the savings on having a constant supply of fresh eggs would out-weigh any negative aspects. Follow these tips and tricks to an affordable and practical hen-house.

A rewarding weekend project is constructing a well-built hen-house. However, it can be expensive and that can be a deterrent to some, especially during these economic times. But if one could design and build cheap chicken coops, then the savings on having a constant supply of fresh eggs would out-weigh any negative aspects. Follow these tips and tricks to an affordable and practical hen-house.

The size and lighting of the hen-house directly influences egg production and the wellness of the birds. As for size, the general guideline is 4 square feet per hen. However, some say that when space is at a premium, 3 square feet per chicken will suffice.

Lighting is a major concern with a very simple solution - the sun. If the structure is built facing it, then during times of heavy rain the ground around the hen-house will quickly dry. This is a good solution considering how damaging damp soil can be to a brood. A constantly wet ground can breed disease and is uncomfortable living conditions for the hens. A cost-effective approach in rainier or colder climates is to install a few fluorescent shop-lights. They are an inexpensive and energy efficient way to heat and dry a coop.

After ensuring the comfort and health of the chickens the next order of business is to make the structure easily accessible for the caretaker. By using even numbers to calculate the design of the hen-house, an individual can drastically cut-down wasted material. The reason for this is because all wood lengths are sold in even numbers. So, if an individual builds their structure with a 4x8 piece of plywood as the base measurements, that hen-house will be capable of comfortably holding 12 - 15 chickens.

Lumber is the most expensive aspect of a coop but that can be limited rather easily. Speak with neighbors and friends and find out if they have any scrap wood or wire that they don't need. Find a subdivision with a lot of houses being built. Speak with the crews around the construction sites and ask them if it would be alright to rummage around for lumber they can't use. Many companies throw away rather large pieces of wood and sometimes damaged plywood is delivered and then tossed on a trash pile. A large subdivision under-construction can be a gold-mine for hen-house material.

Inside the structure there are many needs that must be met. Costs can soar if the caretaker buys all the items needed from the store. Most of the interior can be outfitted with things lying around the house or for free from a friendly grocery store. For example, milk-crates can be acquired from any business that sells milk. With a little straw or grass clippings, they make perfect nests for the hens.

An easy and cheap way to build bird feeders is really simple to construct. Get a 5 gallon bucket, any type will do as long as it still has the handle. Turn the bucket upside-down and cut 3 evenly spaced, triangular slots. Then, find an old planter tray and attach it to the bottom using 3 screws and large washers. Connect it to the wire with some zip ties and bang, an easy to build and inexpensive hen feeder.

Fresh, home-grown eggs are delicious. The positive results of building cheap chicken coops can be measured very quickly. Think about all the recipes and meals that require eggs as an ingredient. The yearly savings of maintaining a well-built hen-house are considerable and well-worth the time and effort.