How to build a chicken coop

Owning chickens can be very beneficial. Not only are you supplied with fresh, free-range eggs, but your garden can also benefit from reduced insects and weeds, and the added bonus of regular fertiliser. They're also very cute and entertaining!

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With all the benefits chickens bring into your life, building a safe, comfortable home is essential. Building a custom chicken coop is crucial to keep your curious birds warm, dry and protected from predators.

We've put together a step by step guide to show you how to build a chicken coop. If you're not up to the challenge, then take a look at our cost to build a chicken house guide or contact a handyperson today.

Essential considerations for building a chicken coop

Before you begin you will need to consider some key factors:

Make sure you have enough space for roosting and the number of nesting boxes you require
Make sure you factor in the strength of your coop to keep your hens safe from predators
It is important that your coop will be well ventilated with no drafts
Position the coop so that it's in a shady area on dry ground with effective drainage
Always use non-corrosive and non-toxic materials to keep your hens safe
Allow at least three square feet for each hen and five square feet for free-range hens
Make sure you have the correct expertise and tools to take on the project yourself. Hiring a professional will give you peace of mind that your coop will last for years to come and ensure the finished coop looks great

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What tools do I need to build a chicken coop?

Before starting, make you have the correct equipment to build your chicken coop.

Electric stand saw
Spirit level
Sandpaper
Screwdriver
Hammer
Measuring tape and pencil
Extension cords
Paintbrush

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How to build a chicken coop step by step

Follow the below points to learn how to build a chicken coop step by step:

Step 1: Build the frame

The frame makes up the chassis of your coop
Ensure your frame is level by measuring on a flat surface and making sure both diagonal measurements are equal
Attach the sides using four connecting battens, inside of every joint
You will then need to screw the battens and frame into place from inside the battens

Step 2: Build the roof

Create your roof trusses by attaching with screws on a 45-degree angle, forming baseless triangle.
Attach these to your frame with screws positioned above your vertical battens
Next, you will need to fix the ridge rail
Attach the large and small ridge rails between your roof trusses. Ensure there is a three inch part of the rail on the right-hand side
Finally, use screws to attach the roof trusses and ridge rails

Step 3: Frame and roof panels

Using 2 OSBs (Oriented Strand Boards), trim to size
Smooth rough edges with sandpaper
Countersink and attach both roof panels to your side battens and roof trusses
Begin panelling. After fitting the side panels, attach the floor panel to the frame with screws
Cut the coop openings from the attached panels, including nesting boxes, a coop door and a hole for cleaning access

Step 4: Finishing touches

Cut the battens to size then start making the coop doors using two horizontal and two vertical battens
Use a horizontal batten and cover each end with PVC glue
Attach the vertical battens to the horizontal batten ends and screw into place. Do this for both door sides
Repeat this to form your second coop door
To hang the doors, attach hinges onto the doors and the coop frame
Construct the nesting boxes and finish with non-toxic paint
Felt and shingle the coop roof
Then build a fence from chicken wire

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How to build a chicken coop and run

Healthy chickens need a run for safe exercising without the danger of predators. This will also stop them from escaping. Please note, foxes can break through the chicken wire so it is safer to use another stronger material, for example, ½ inch welded wire.

Start with the previous step by step instructions, then follow the below stages to learn how to build a chicken coop and run:

Begin by digging holes for the fence posts. For security, use concrete to prevent them from moving
Ensure your posts are level and measure them to check they make an even shape
Next, attach boards across the highest point to ensure they stay put
Dig a trench a few inches deep between the posts, then attach the fence with u-shaped nails
Add a roof to the run to protect your chickens from predators that can climb and fly, such as foxes and eagles
Finally, add a door for access

How to build a chicken coop out of pallets

A great and affordable option is to build a chicken coop out of pallets, as follows:

If you want your coop to be high enough for you to walk inside, build it using two vertical pallets. For convenience use similar sized pallets
Working to a rectangle shape, screw the starting row of pallets onto your wood perimeter
Next, construct the second layer with pallets and screw into place
Finally, add a door and a roof to complete your coop

Key takeaways

Building a chicken coop will keep your feathered friends safe and warm
A chicken run will give your birds the space to exercise but not escape
Follow the steps in the previous section to learn how to build a chicken coop out of pallets
Always take multiple measurements to prevent any mistakes
Hiring a tradesperson will mean a high quality, low-risk job with a professional finish

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