139+ Commercial Free Range Chicken Coop

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Introduction: Building Your Own Free-Range Chicken Coop Thinking about expanding your flock or just getting started with backyard chickens? A commercial-sized free-range chicken coop can be expensive. Building your own allows for customization and cost savings. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to constructing a robust and functional chicken coop suitable for a larger flock, ensuring their comfort, safety, and access to the outdoors.

Planning and Design Before you grab your tools, careful planning is essential. This stage determines the coop's size, layout, and features. Here's what to consider:

Flock Size: Determine the number of chickens you plan to house. A general rule of thumb is 4 square feet of coop space per chicken and 8-10 square feet of outdoor run space. For example, for 139 chickens, you will need approximately 556 square feet of coop space and between 1112 and 1390 square feet of run space.

Location: Choose a well-drained area with partial shade. Consider proximity to water and electricity sources. Ensure the location is relatively level to simplify construction.

Design Considerations: Decide on a design that includes adequate ventilation, nesting boxes (one for every 4-5 hens), roosting bars, and easy access for cleaning and egg collection. Consider weather protection, predator-proofing, and future expansion.

Materials List: Create a comprehensive materials list based on your design. Common materials include lumber (pressure-treated for ground contact), plywood, roofing materials (shingles, metal, or polycarbonate panels), chicken wire or hardware cloth, hinges, latches, nails, screws, and possibly concrete for footings.

Blueprints/Sketches: Develop detailed blueprints or sketches outlining dimensions, framing details, and material specifications. This will serve as your construction guide.

Step-by-Step Construction The following outlines the general construction process. Adapt these steps based on your specific design.

Foundation: Start by preparing the ground. Level the area and, if desired, pour concrete footings for added stability. Alternatively, build a wooden frame base elevated off the ground.

Framing: Construct the coop's frame using pressure-treated lumber for the base and standard lumber for the walls and roof. Ensure the frame is square and level. Use appropriate fasteners for strong connections.

Wall Construction: Attach plywood or OSB sheathing to the framed walls. Cut out openings for doors, windows, and ventilation. Insulate the walls if desired for added temperature control.

Roofing: Install the roof framing according to your design (gable, shed, etc.). Cover the frame with plywood or OSB sheathing. Apply roofing felt and then your chosen roofing material (shingles, metal, etc.). Ensure proper overhang to protect the walls from rain.

Flooring: If you're building a floor, cover the frame with plywood or OSB sheathing. Many free-range coops have dirt floors to allow chickens to scratch and dust bathe.

Ventilation: Install vents near the top of the walls to allow for airflow. Cover the vents with hardware cloth to prevent predator entry.

Doors and Windows: Install doors and windows. The doors should be wide enough for easy access for cleaning and maintenance. Windows provide natural light and ventilation.

Nesting Boxes: Construct nesting boxes and install them inside the coop. Position them in a dark and quiet area.

Roosting Bars: Install roosting bars at varying heights to accommodate your chickens. Allow adequate space per chicken.

Run Construction: Build the chicken run using wooden posts and chicken wire or hardware cloth. Bury the wire at least 12 inches deep to prevent digging predators. Cover the top of the run to prevent birds from flying out and predators from entering. Ensure a secure gate for easy access.

Finishing Touches: Add any additional features, such as feeders, waterers, and dust bathing areas. Secure all latches and hardware to prevent predator access.

Conclusion: Enjoying Your New Free-Range Coop Building your own free-range chicken coop is a rewarding project that provides a safe and comfortable home for your flock. By following these steps and adapting them to your specific needs and design, you can create a durable and functional coop that will serve you and your chickens for years to come. Remember to regularly inspect and maintain the coop to ensure its longevity and the well-being of your flock.

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