A Chicken Coop with Repurposed Materials and Modern Features
- The Wilsons
- Mar 3
- 3 min read
Building a chicken coop with my family turned out to be one of the most rewarding projects we've tackled together.
We desired a practical, sustainable, and comfortable solution for our chickens. So, we decided to order a small barn. In the past, we've constructed chicken coops using old dog houses and fencing, which were often in disrepair and required constant maintenance. After relocating the farm, we wanted a sturdy main structure to safely house the chickens at night, store brooding material in the loft, and keep their food. This mini barn fulfills all those needs.
However using old chicken laying boxes with roll-out egg collectors, combined with new waterers and feeders that hold a large quantity, plus inclined roosting bars, made this coop both efficient and easy to maintain. I’m excited to share how we brought this idea to life and the lessons we learned along the way.
Our Original A Frame Chicken coop
Choosing the Right Materials and Design
We started by assessing what materials we already had and what we needed to buy. The old chicken laying boxes were a perfect foundation. These boxes came with roll-out egg collectors, which meant less daily hassle collecting eggs and a cleaner environment for the hens. Repurposing these boxes saved us money and reduced waste.
For the feeders and waterers, we opted for new models that could hold a large quantity of feed and water. This choice was crucial because it meant fewer refills and less chance of spills or contamination. We picked feeders with wide bases to prevent tipping and waterers designed to keep the water clean and fresh.
Feeders with reduced scattering and spillage.
Waterers that are closed , do not get dirty with manure and do not leak have made a huge difference for us in cleanliness and less time spent on chores.
The roosting bars were another important feature. We chose inclined bars instead of flat ones because chickens naturally prefer to perch at an angle. This design helps keep their feet healthy and reduces stress. We made sure the bars were sturdy and spaced well to accommodate all our birds comfortably.
Building the Coop Together
The construction process truly involved the whole family. Each person had a role, from measuring and cutting wood to assembling the frame and installing the laying boxes. Working together made the project both enjoyable and educational for everyone.
The Chicken Run has been renovated several times. We added a higher pitch to the top netting to prevent the weight of the snow in winter from pulling it down or tearing it.
Then we installed a higher roosting bar in the middle, which they all love sitting on. It helps keep their feet dry and provides a higher perch for escape if an intruder enters.
The outer perimeter consists of three layers: a wooden snow fence (from tractor supply), hardware chicken cloth, and a net to deter predators.
Practical Benefits We Noticed
Since finishing the coop, daily chores have become simpler. The roll-out egg collectors save time and keep eggs clean, reducing breakage.
The large feeders and waterers mean we only need to refill them every few days, which is a big help during busy weeks.
The inclined roosting bars have made a noticeable difference in the chickens’ comfort. They seem more relaxed and sleep better, which contributes to healthier birds and better egg production. Plus, the coop stays cleaner because the design encourages natural behaviors that reduce mess.
Another benefit is the sense of accomplishment and teamwork we gained. Building the coop together taught us patience, problem-solving, and the value of reusing materials. It also gave us a shared space where we can enjoy watching our chickens thrive.
The Fluffy Butt Hut 2 yrs later
Tips for Anyone Building a Chicken Coop with Family
Plan ahead: Sketch your design and list materials before starting. Knowing what you need saves time and frustration.
Use what you have: Repurposing old laying boxes or other materials can cut costs and add character.
Focus on chicken comfort: Features like inclined roosting bars and easy-access egg collectors improve the chickens’ wellbeing.
Divide tasks: Assign roles based on skills and interests to keep everyone engaged.
Keep it simple: A straightforward design is easier to build and maintain.
Safety first: Make sure the coop is secure from predators and weatherproof.
Building a chicken coop with repurposed materials and modern features is a project that brings families together and benefits your flock. It’s practical, eco-friendly, and rewarding. If you’re thinking about starting your own coop, consider involving your family and using a mix of old and new materials to create a space that works for everyone.
What materials do you already own to help build a chicken coop that could help you save money
Wilson Wonders
Comments