Chicken Coop Plans: Build Chicken Coops!

Question: How much choice do you have when choosing the building materials for your chicken coop?

Answer: A lot of choice.

In fact, so much so, that the materials you choose will have a big impact on how much money you spend on the chicken coop, So it's benefits you to understanding the availability of different materials so you can make an informed decision.

The topic of “materials” and “cost” is covered in greater depth in the book “Building A Chicken Coop” , but here are some of the basics to get you mind thinking that direction.

Since many individuals tend to think that a lot of expensive materials are needed to build a good chicken coop, they tend also to overspend on materials. To the contrary, chicken coops can be constructed from a variety of less expensive, and often recycled or repurposed materials. Some builders have used (1) 50 gallon barrels, (2) scrap lumber, (3) an old shed, (4) and PVC pipes that they already had on hand to build their chicken coop.

Most commonly, wood is used to build the main structure of the typical chicken coop. It's also the priciest material. Wood varieties definitely vary in price, and a cedar chicken coop will likely last longer than a pine one, however, most people would scoff at the idea of using cedar lumber for something like a chicken coop. So looking at the different types of wood is also important. And don't forget to consider places like Habitat ReStore , auctions, or property owners of old buildings for salvaged lumber.

For a smaller coop, you might even be able to get away with using lumber that is left over from a construction site. You'll see plenty of dumpsters with 2x4s and partial sheets of plywood. If you ask around for scrap pieces of wood remember you’ll have to pull some nails and may need to patchwork together your 'discount' lumber.

Not surprisingly, you could save over half the price of the coop just by considering creative sources of building materials that suit your building style.

So, these tips are to help you consider, before you rush out to the nearest lumber yard, think about what you need for building supplies.