How to Build a Super Easy Chicken Coop Even If You’re Not Handy

Are you thinking about raising backyard chickens but feeling intimidated by the thought of building a coop? I totally get it! When I first started my chicken-keeping journey, the idea of constructing anything with wood made me nervous But here’s the good news – building a chicken coop doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about building an easy chicken coop that will keep your feathered friends safe, comfortable, and happy Whether you’re a complete beginner or just looking for a simpler approach, I’ve got you covered!

Why Build Your Own Chicken Coop?

Before diving into the how-to let’s talk about why building your own coop makes sense

• Save money compared to pre-made coops (which can cost $500-$2,000!)
• Customize it to fit your specific needs and space
• Ensure quality by selecting materials yourself
• Satisfaction of creating something with your own hands
• Modify later as your flock grows or needs change

Planning Your Easy Chicken Coop

Location, Location, Location

The perfect spot for your chicken coop should be:

• Placed on dry ground with good drainage
• In a sunny location with some shade
• Protected from strong winds but with good airflow
• Easily accessible for egg collection and cleaning
• Away from neighbors who might complain about noise or smells

Size Requirements

Don’t overcomplicate this! Here’s a simple guide:

For example, if you have 4 hens, you’ll need a coop that’s at least 12 square feet inside, with about 100 square feet of outdoor run space.

Essential Features

Your coop should include:

• Weatherproof roof and walls to keep birds dry
• Ventilation to prevent moisture buildup
• Secure doors and windows to keep predators out
• Nesting boxes for egg laying (one box per 4-5 hens)
• Roosting bars for sleeping
• Access doors for cleaning and egg collection

Materials You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy stuff! Here’s what worked for me:

• Lumber: 2×4s for framing, 2×2s for details
• Plywood or OSB sheets (7/16″) for walls and floor
• Hardware cloth (NOT chicken wire) for predator protection
• Roofing material (felt paper, shingles, metal, or plastic)
• Hinges for doors
• Screws and nails
• Paint or wood sealer (non-toxic!)

Tools Required

Keep it simple with these basic tools:

• Measuring tape and pencil
• Hammer
• Screwdriver or drill
• Saw (circular saw or handsaw)
• Level
• Sandpaper

10 Easy Steps to Build Your Chicken Coop

Step 1: Build the Foundation

Start with a simple foundation to keep your coop off the ground:

1. Cut pressure-treated 2×4s to form a rectangle frame
2. Join corners with screws
3. Add joists every 16″ for support
4. Attach plywood for flooring

Pro tip: Make sure your foundation is level before moving forward!

Step 2: Frame the Walls

1. Cut 2×4s for wall studs and plates
2. Assemble wall frames on a flat surface
3. Ensure corners are square by measuring diagonals
4. Add extra framing where doors and windows will go

Step 3: Attach the Walls

1. Stand up each wall frame and secure to the foundation
2. Join corners together with screws
3. Check for square and level as you go

Step 4: Add the Roof Frame

1. Install roof trusses or rafters
2. Add ridge beam for peaked roofs
3. Secure everything with screws

I found that a simple sloped roof works great and is way easier to build than complicated designs!

Step 5: Install Wall and Roof Panels

1. Cut plywood or OSB sheets to size
2. Attach to wall frames with screws or nails
3. Install roof panels with slight overhang for rain runoff

Step 6: Cut Openings

Now cut openings for:

• Main access door (for you)
• Chicken door (for them)
• Windows for ventilation
• Access for nesting boxes

Step 7: Build and Install Doors

1. Frame simple doors using 2×2s
2. Cover with plywood
3. Attach with hinges
4. Add latches that predators can’t open

Step 8: Add Roosts and Nesting Boxes

1. Install roosting bars using 2×2s or branches (about 18-24″ off the floor)
2. Build simple nesting boxes (12″×12″×12″ each)
3. Add bedding material to nesting boxes

Step 9: Predator-Proof Everything

This is super important!

1. Cover all openings with hardware cloth (1/2″ or 1/4″ mesh)
2. Bury hardware cloth 12″ deep around perimeter or create an “apron”
3. Double-check all latches and locks

Step 10: Final Touches

1. Paint or seal all exposed wood (protects from weather and makes cleaning easier)
2. Add ramp for chicken access
3. Install feeders and waterers
4. Add bedding material to floor

Easiest Coop Designs for Beginners

If you’re still feeling nervous, here are three ultra-simple designs:

1. The A-Frame Coop

This triangular design is super easy to build and great for small flocks:

• Minimal cutting and measuring
• Naturally sheds rain and snow
• Can be made portable

2. The Converted Shed

Already have a garden shed? Convert it!

• Add roosts, nesting boxes, and ventilation
• Cut a chicken-sized door
• Add a small run outside

3. The Repurposed Furniture Coop

For just 2-3 chickens, consider:

• Old armoire or cabinet
• Child’s playhouse
• Dog house with modifications

Maintaining Your Easy Chicken Coop

Keep these simple maintenance tasks in mind:

Daily Tasks

• Collect eggs
• Check water and food
• Look for signs of predator activity

Weekly Tasks

• Clean out droppings
• Refresh bedding as needed
• Check for maintenance issues

Seasonal Tasks

• Deep clean coop (spring and fall)
• Check for drafts before winter
• Ensure ventilation in summer

Common Questions About Easy Chicken Coops

Q: Do I need to heat my chicken coop?
A: Nope! Most chickens are fine without heat unless you’re in extremely cold climates (like remote Canada or Alaska). They’ll huddle together for warmth.

Q: Should I leave food in the coop at night?
A: It’s a personal choice, but I don’t. It can attract rodents and other pests.

Q: How do I get my chickens to go into the coop at night?
A: No chasing needed! Use treats like scratch grains to lure them in. Once they know it’s home, they’ll naturally return at dusk.

Q: How heavy is a typical DIY coop? Can I move it?
A: A basic coop can be quite heavy. Plan on 4 people to move it safely, or build it where you want it to stay.

Wrap-Up

Building a chicken coop doesn’t have to be complicated! The most important things to remember are:

1. Provide enough space for your birds
2. Keep them safe from predators
3. Ensure good ventilation while staying draft-free
4. Make it accessible for cleaning and egg collection

I built my first coop with barely any woodworking experience, and it turned out great! My chickens are happy, I’m getting fresh eggs, and the whole project cost less than $250. If I can do it, you definitely can too!

Happy building and chicken keeping!