By: DIY Homestead & Agriculture Desk

Raising backyard chickens has become more popular than ever, and with that comes the demand for functional, predator-proof, and easy-to-maintain chicken coops. The series of plans and images you’ve shared showcase a variety of coop designs—from compact sheds to extended runs. Below is a complete news-style, step-by-step breakdown in plain English, consolidating the dimensions, diagrams, and construction steps shown.

1. Understanding the Coop Dimensions

From the diagrams, we see coops ranging from:

• Small models: About 190 cm (6.2 ft) long, 113 cm (3.7 ft) tall, suitable for a small flock (3–5 hens).
• Medium coops: Around 17–20 ft long, 6–9 ft wide, and up to 8–10 ft tall—large enough for 15–20 birds.
• Large coops with runs: 24 ft length, divided into a sheltered coop area plus a long covered run.

Key design notes:

• Height at front: 8 ft peak / 6 ft back (slanted roof for water runoff).
• Nesting boxes: Projected externally for easy egg collection.
• Runs: Wire mesh walls to protect chickens from predators while allowing ventilation.

2. Base and Frame Construction

Step 1: Build the Floor Frame

• Use pressure-treated lumber (1 ½” x 3 ½”) for durability.
• Secure using 3″ outdoor wood screws.
• Confirm corners are square with a carpenter’s square.

Step 2: Wall Framing

• Construct side walls using vertical studs spaced 16″ apart (or as per drawings).
• Example from the diagrams: Left wall = 8′ 2 ¼” tall, width 9′.
• Reinforce corners for strength.

Step 3: Roof Frame

• Install rafters/slanted beams for drainage.
• A corrugated metal roof or asphalt shingles are recommended.

3. Installing Panels and Mesh

• Cover the coop section with wooden siding panels.
• For the run, attach galvanized welded wire mesh (hardware cloth is stronger than chicken wire).
• Leave space for ventilation windows, covered with mesh.

4. Nesting Boxes

From the nesting box plan (Step 15):

• Use 5/8″ plywood for partitions and floors.
• Partition boxes into sections (each box serves 3–4 hens).
• Example: A 12-hen flock needs 3–4 nesting boxes.
• Dimensions: About 12″ x 12″ per box.

Attach nesting boxes to the side with an exterior lid so eggs can be collected without entering the coop.

5. Roosting Bars and Interior Layout

• Chickens sleep on roosting bars, not in nesting boxes.
• Place wooden bars about 18–24″ above the floor.
• Provide 8–10″ of roost space per bird.
• Interior should have:
  • Ramp connecting run and coop.
  • Ventilation windows to prevent ammonia buildup.
  • Easy-to-clean flooring (plywood base topped with litter).

6. Litter Tray System

From the litter tray diagram (Step 42):

• Build a slide-out tray using ¾” plywood.
• Line with a removable sheet (or linoleum) for easy cleaning.
• This collects droppings and makes daily maintenance faster.

7. Doors and Access Points

• Main door: For human entry (cleaning, feeding).
• Chicken door (pop door): Small opening (~12″ x 12″) for chickens to access the run.
• Ventilation openings: Covered with wire mesh.

8. Final Touches

• Paint or stain the wood to resist weather.
• Install latches and predator-proof locks on all doors.
• Add a ramp for chicken access to elevated coops.
• Lay gravel or concrete base to prevent digging predators.

9. Why These Designs Work

• Slanted roof: Prevents water pooling.
• Wire mesh runs: Chickens get safe outdoor access.
• External nesting boxes: Convenient egg collection.
• Raised design (some models): Prevents flooding and creates shaded space beneath.
• Modular parts (walls, trays, nesting boxes): Easier construction and future expansion.

10. Step-by-Step Summary

1. Prepare and square the base.
2. Build wall frames (front, back, sides).
3. Assemble the roof structure.
4. Attach siding and wire mesh.
5. Install nesting boxes and interior roosts.
6. Add slide-out litter trays for cleaning.
7. Secure doors, latches, and windows.
8. Paint, finish, and inspect for predator safety.

Conclusion

The coop plans shown combine ease of access for humans, safety for chickens, and comfort for egg-laying. With clear measurements (17–24 ft length for large coops, 6–9 ft width, 6–8 ft height), these designs scale from small hobby setups to larger backyard farms.

In short: this is not just a chicken coop — it’s a well-engineered poultry home that keeps hens healthy, productive, and secure. 🐔