If you’ve been keeping chickens for any length of time, you’re probably familiar with “chicken math”—that funny little phenomenon where your planned flock of three somehow multiplies into a happy family of ten. Suddenly, the starter coop that seemed so spacious feels cramped and crowded. Choosing the right home for your flock is about more than just shelter; it’s about giving them the space they need to thrive without stress. This guide is your roadmap to finding the perfect home for your growing flock. We’ll explore the essential features that make big chicken coops truly functional, not just oversized. From smart layouts that simplify cleaning to planning for future expansion, we’ll cover everything you need to know to invest in a coop that will keep your chickens happy and healthy for years to come.
Key Takeaways
- Give your flock more room than you think you need: Plan for at least 3-5 square feet per chicken inside the coop, and then add a buffer. This prevents stress-related issues and gives you the flexibility to add more birds later without needing an immediate upgrade.
- Prioritize features that simplify your routine: A coop should be easy for you to manage. Look for non-negotiable elements like a walk-in design for easy cleaning, proper ventilation for flock health, and predator-proof hardware for security.
- View your coop as a long-term investment: Choosing a coop built with quality materials and solid craftsmanship saves you money and stress down the road. A durable structure protects your flock from predators and weather, ensuring their safety and your peace of mind for years.
How Big Should Your Chicken Coop Be?
Choosing the right size for your chicken coop is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your flock. Think of it as finding the perfect home—it needs to be comfortable, safe, and have enough room for everyone to get along. A coop that’s too small can lead to stressed, unhappy chickens, while one that’s too big can be difficult to keep warm in the winter. The perfect size depends on a few key things: how many chickens you have (or plan to have), their breed, and how much time they'll spend inside versus outdoors.
Getting the dimensions right from the start sets your flock up for success. A well-sized coop provides enough space for roosting, nesting, and simply moving around without stepping on each other. It also makes your life easier, ensuring there’s adequate room for feeders, waterers, and easy cleaning access. Before you fall in love with a specific design, let’s walk through exactly how to figure out the ideal footprint for your feathered family. We’ll cover everything from the minimum square footage per bird to planning for future growth, so you can confidently choose a coop that will keep your chickens happy and healthy for years to come.
How Much Space Each Chicken Needs
When it comes to coop size, a good rule of thumb is to provide at least three to five square feet of floor space per standard-sized chicken inside the coop. For larger breeds, like Orpingtons or Plymouth Rocks, you’ll want to aim for at least four square feet per bird. If your chickens will be free-ranging most of the day and only using the coop to sleep and lay eggs, you can get by with a little less—around two square feet per chicken.
Remember, these are minimums. More space is almost always better. Giving your flock extra room can reduce squabbles and keep the coop cleaner for longer. When you’re looking at customizable coops, think about your flock’s daily routine and always lean towards a slightly larger size if you’re unsure.
The Link Between Space and Flock Health
The amount of space your chickens have directly impacts their well-being. Just like us, chickens need personal space to feel secure. Overcrowding is a major source of stress that can lead to serious problems like feather pecking, bullying, and a more competitive pecking order. Cramped conditions also create a breeding ground for parasites and diseases, as ammonia from droppings can build up more quickly and airflow is restricted.
Providing the right amount of space is crucial for a harmonious and healthy flock. When chickens have enough room to stretch their wings, dust bathe, and move freely, they are far less likely to develop bad habits or get sick. A spacious coop is a foundational part of responsible chicken keeping and a key ingredient for a happy flock.
Planning for Every Season
Your coop needs to be a comfortable shelter year-round, and its size plays a big role in how it performs through different seasons. In the winter, your chickens will spend much more time inside to stay out of the cold, wind, and snow. A coop that feels spacious in July can suddenly seem crowded in January. It’s important that there’s enough room for everyone to huddle together for warmth on roosting bars without being packed too tightly.
In the summer, the challenge is keeping cool. A larger coop with good ventilation allows for better air circulation, which helps prevent overheating. Features like moisture-resistant siding and a roof designed to reflect heat can make a huge difference. Planning for the most extreme weather your area experiences will ensure your coop remains a safe haven no matter the season.
Making Room for a Growing Flock
If you’re new to keeping chickens, you’ll quickly learn about "chicken math"—the mysterious force that makes your small flock of three somehow turn into ten. It’s a common and joyful experience for backyard chicken keepers! That’s why it’s so important to plan for future growth when choosing your coop size. It’s much easier and more cost-effective to start with a coop that’s a little bigger than you need right now.
A great guideline is to plan for at least 10% more space than your current flock requires. This gives you the flexibility to add new birds without immediately needing a bigger coop. Thinking ahead saves you the hassle and expense of upgrading down the road.
Common Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
One of the biggest mistakes new chicken keepers make is underestimating how much space their flock truly needs. It’s easy to look at a coop and think it’s big enough, but once you add feeders, waterers, and a flock of growing chickens, that space disappears quickly. Always calculate your needs based on the square footage rules, not just a visual estimate.
Another common misstep is adding too many nesting boxes. While they seem important, you only need one nesting box for every three to four hens. Your flock will likely pick a favorite and share it anyway. Installing too many takes up valuable floor and roosting space that your chickens need for daily living. When you design your own coop, focus on usable space first and accessories second.
Must-Have Features for a Safe, Comfortable Coop
A spacious coop is a great start, but the features inside are what truly make it a safe and comfortable home for your flock. Think of it like building a house—the floor plan matters, but so do the windows, the security system, and the layout of the rooms. Getting these details right from the beginning will save you headaches down the road and keep your chickens healthy and happy. A well-designed coop doesn't just meet the basic needs of your birds; it makes your life as a chicken keeper easier and more enjoyable. Let’s look at the essential features every great coop should have, from proper airflow to predator-proof locks. These are the non-negotiables that separate a simple box from a true haven for your feathered family.
Proper Ventilation for Fresh Air
This is a big one. Chickens produce a lot of moisture and ammonia, which can build up and cause respiratory problems if the air is stagnant. Good ventilation isn't about making the coop drafty; it's about creating consistent, gentle airflow. Look for coops with vents placed high up, near the roofline. This allows warm, moist air to escape without creating a cold breeze on your roosting chickens below. All of our customizable coops are designed with superior ventilation in mind, ensuring your flock has fresh air to breathe year-round, which is a cornerstone of good flock health.
Smart Nesting Box Setups
Your hens need a quiet, private place to lay their eggs, but you don't need to go overboard. A common mistake is providing too many nesting boxes, which just takes up valuable space. The general rule of thumb is one nesting box for every three to four hens. They’ll happily share! Place the boxes in a darker, calmer part of the coop, away from the main hustle and bustle. This encourages them to lay where you want them to. You can add cozy bedding and even some cute coop decor to make their nesting spots extra inviting and easy for you to collect from.
Ample Roosting Bars
Chickens have a natural instinct to roost up high at night—it makes them feel safe. Your coop needs sturdy roosting bars that give every chicken enough space to perch comfortably. Aim for about 8-10 inches of roosting space per bird. It's also important to place the roosting bars higher than the nesting boxes. If the nesting boxes are higher, your chickens might be tempted to sleep (and poop) in them, leading to dirty eggs. A well-designed coop, like our in-stock models, will have this hierarchy built right in, promoting clean habits and happy birds.
Predator-Proofing Your Flock's Home
Keeping your flock safe from predators is non-negotiable. Raccoons, hawks, foxes, and even neighborhood dogs can be a threat. A secure coop starts with strong materials and smart design. All entry points—doors, windows, and vents—should have sturdy, predator-proof locks and be covered with hardware cloth (not chicken wire, which is easily torn). Check for any small gaps or weak spots where a determined predator could gain entry. Investing in a well-built, secure structure is the best way to ensure your chickens are protected day and night. Our custom projects always prioritize safety, using heavy-duty hardware and construction that gives you peace of mind.
Keeping the Temperature Just Right
You want your chickens to be comfortable in every season. In the winter, a coop that’s too large for your flock can be difficult for them to keep warm with their collective body heat. In the summer, a poorly ventilated coop can become dangerously hot. The key is balance. A properly sized and insulated coop will stay warmer in the cold and cooler in the heat. Features like deep litter bedding can also help with insulation. When you design your coop with us, we consider your climate to help you choose the right size and features for year-round comfort.
Designs That Make Cleaning Easy
Let’s be honest: cleaning the coop is probably not your favorite chore. But a clean coop is essential for preventing disease and parasites. The right design can make this task so much easier. Look for features that simplify your routine, like a walk-in design that lets you stand up straight instead of crouching. Smooth, non-porous flooring is easier to scrape and sanitize than bare wood. Some coops even have features like removable roosting bars or droppings boards that make daily spot-cleaning a breeze. An easy-to-clean coop means you're more likely to do it regularly, which is a win for both you and your flock.
Convenient Access for You and Your Chickens
A coop should be easy for everyone to use—including you! A human-sized door makes daily tasks like refilling food and water, collecting eggs, and cleaning much more pleasant. No one wants to crawl into a tiny coop. It’s also important to have a separate, smaller door for your chickens that they can easily use to enter and exit. An automatic chicken door is a fantastic accessory that can open at sunrise and close at sunset, giving your flock freedom while keeping them safe. When planning your coop, think about how you’ll move around inside it and how your chickens will get to their run.
Smart Features for Large Coops
When you have a bigger flock, a large coop is a must, but size alone isn't enough. The best large coops are designed with smart features that make managing your flock easier and more enjoyable. Think beyond just square footage and consider the thoughtful details that simplify cleaning, streamline your chores, and keep your chickens comfortable and secure. From walk-in access that saves your back to integrated storage that keeps everything tidy, these features transform a simple shelter into a highly functional and beautiful centerpiece for your backyard. A well-designed coop works for you, not against you, giving you more time to simply enjoy your feathered friends.
The Joy of a Walk-In Coop
If you take away just one piece of advice, let it be this: get a walk-in coop. Being able to stand up straight inside your coop is an absolute game-changer. No more hunching over to scrub floors or awkwardly reaching into corners to gather eggs. A full-sized door makes daily tasks like refilling waterers and feeders, spot-cleaning, and checking on your hens incredibly simple. It turns coop maintenance from a dreaded chore into a quick, comfortable part of your routine. When you can easily walk in with a rake or wheelbarrow, the weekly deep clean becomes far less daunting. Your back will thank you for choosing one of our customizable coops with human-sized access.
Adding Space with Multiple Levels
A smart way to maximize your coop's interior is by thinking vertically. Adding multiple levels gives your chickens more room to explore without increasing the coop's footprint in your yard. You can have roosting bars on an upper level, which chickens naturally prefer, keeping them safely off the ground at night. This design also helps keep the floor cleaner, as droppings can be collected on a board below the roosts. Different levels give your flock more areas to perch and relax, which can help reduce boredom and prevent squabbles within the pecking order. It’s an efficient use of space that adds enrichment and function to your flock’s home.
Integrated Storage Solutions
Imagine having everything you need for your chickens right at your fingertips. That’s the beauty of a coop with integrated storage. Many larger coop designs incorporate a built-in shed or cabinet space, giving you a dedicated spot for feed, bedding, and cleaning supplies. This means no more hauling heavy bags of feed from the garage or leaving tools out in the rain. It keeps your supplies dry, organized, and secure from rodents and other pests. Having a dedicated storage area as part of your coop streamlines your entire chicken-keeping routine. You can even add stylish coop accessories like feed storage bins to complete your setup.
Options for Future Expansion
"Chicken math" is a real phenomenon—you start with three, and suddenly you have ten! It’s always wise to plan for a growing flock. When choosing a coop, consider one that’s slightly larger than you currently need. Better yet, look for designs that are built for expansion. Some coops are modular, allowing you to add on sections later, while others can easily accommodate a larger, attached run when the time comes. Investing in a coop with future growth in mind saves you the hassle and expense of buying a completely new setup down the road. Our custom projects are perfect for creating a forever home that can evolve with your flock.
Protection from Wind, Rain, and Sun
Your coop is your flock’s primary defense against the elements, so it needs to be tough. A well-built coop offers more than just a roof; it provides a safe haven from harsh weather. Look for features like deep roof overhangs that create shade in the summer and keep rain and snow away from the entrance. Solid, draft-free construction is essential for blocking cold winter winds, while proper sealing prevents leaks that can lead to damp, unhealthy conditions. A sturdy structure built with quality materials ensures your chickens stay dry, comfortable, and protected. This is why our in-stock coops are built to be over-engineered for durability in any weather.
Planning Your Chicken Run
The run is your chickens' daytime playground, and it’s just as important as the coop itself. A general rule of thumb is to provide at least 8 to 10 square feet of outdoor space per chicken. This gives them enough room to scratch, forage, and dust bathe without feeling overcrowded. A spacious run helps prevent boredom and stress-related behaviors. For maximum safety, the run should be fully enclosed with predator-proof hardware cloth, including a cover on top to protect against hawks and other aerial threats. A covered run also offers valuable shade on sunny days, ensuring your flock has a comfortable place to spend their time outdoors.
Simple Waste Management
Let’s be honest: cleaning the coop is the least glamorous part of keeping chickens. However, the right design features can make it a surprisingly quick and easy task. Look for coops with smooth, non-porous flooring, which is incredibly easy to sweep or scrape clean. A removable droppings board placed under the roosting bars is another fantastic feature, as it collects the majority of the nightly mess in one easy-to-clean spot. When you can design your coop with these cleaning-focused features, you’ll spend less time mucking out and more time enjoying your flock.
Built to Last: Materials and Construction
A great chicken coop is more than just a shelter; it's a long-term investment in your flock's safety and your own peace of mind. The quality of a coop comes down to the materials used and the skill with which they're assembled. A well-built structure will stand up to years of pecking, scratching, and unpredictable weather, all while keeping predators out. From the type of wood to the finish on the roof, every detail matters. When you choose a coop made with superior materials and expert craftsmanship, you're not just buying a house for your chickens—you're creating a durable, lasting home. This focus on quality ensures your coop remains a safe and beautiful part of your backyard for years to come.
Choosing the Right Wood
Wood is the classic choice for chicken coops, and for good reason. It’s sturdy, insulating, and has a timeless look that fits into any backyard. When selecting a coop, look for ones built with high-quality, solid wood that can withstand the elements. Some woods are naturally more resistant to rot and insects, while others are treated to extend their lifespan. The key is to ensure the wood is non-toxic to your flock. A well-constructed wooden coop provides excellent protection and a cozy environment. Our customizable coops are built by Amish craftsmen using premium lumber, ensuring a structure that is both beautiful and incredibly sturdy from the ground up.
Durable Hardware and Roofing
The little details make a big difference in a coop's security and longevity. Think about the hardware—latches, hinges, and locks. These components need to be strong enough to foil clever predators like raccoons and durable enough to resist rust and corrosion over time. The same goes for the roofing. A quality roof, whether it's made of asphalt shingles or metal, is your flock's primary defense against rain, snow, and harsh sun. It prevents leaks that can lead to damp, unhealthy conditions inside the coop. Investing in a coop with robust hardware and a weather-tight roof means you won't have to worry about constant repairs or your flock's safety.
Setting a Solid Foundation
A coop is only as strong as its foundation. A solid, level base is essential for preventing structural issues down the line, like warping doors or gaps in the walls. A good foundation also helps with drainage, keeping the coop floor dry and comfortable for your chickens. Furthermore, it serves as a critical barrier against digging predators and burrowing pests that might try to gain entry from below. Whether you place your coop on a concrete slab, gravel pad, or simple leveling blocks, taking the time to establish a proper foundation ensures your coop remains stable and secure for its entire lifespan, protecting both your flock and your investment.
Weather-Resistant Finishes
A coat of paint does more than just make a coop look pretty—it's a vital layer of protection. High-quality exterior paint or stain seals the wood, shielding it from moisture that can cause rot and decay. This protective finish makes the coop easier to clean and helps it stand up to the daily wear and tear of sun, wind, and rain. When you design your own coop, you can choose from a variety of paint colors and finishes. This not only lets you match your coop to your home's aesthetic but also ensures it’s sealed with a durable, weather-resistant coating that will keep it looking great for years.
What Makes a Coop Durable?
Durability isn't the result of a single feature but the combination of many. It starts with using strong, long-lasting materials like premium wood and heavy-duty hardware. It continues with thoughtful construction, where every joint is secure and every panel is perfectly fitted. A durable coop is built to be predator-proof, weather-resistant, and easy to maintain. This is where American-made, Amish craftsmanship truly shines. The attention to detail and commitment to quality result in a structure that’s built to last. When you see one of our in-stock coops, you can feel the sturdiness and see the quality in every board and nail.
Your Coop Maintenance Checklist
Even the best-built coop needs a little TLC to stay in top condition. A simple maintenance routine will extend its life and keep it a healthy home for your flock. At least once a week, remove soiled bedding and droppings, replacing them with fresh materials. While you're cleaning, do a quick inspection. Check that all latches and locks are working correctly and that there are no signs of pests or water damage. Seasonally, it's a good idea to check for any wood that might need a paint touch-up and ensure all seals around windows and doors are intact. Keeping useful coop accessories on hand, like extra bedding and cleaning tools, makes this routine even easier.
A Look at Top Coop Builders
Choosing a coop is a big decision, and it helps to know who the key players are. The right builder can make all the difference in getting a coop that fits your space, style, and flock’s needs. While we’re proud of the work we do here, we want you to have all the information you need to make the best choice for your family. From easy-to-assemble kits to fully custom, handcrafted homes, different builders bring unique strengths to the table. Let’s take a look at some of the top names in the coop world to help you get a feel for what’s out there.
Cutest Coops
We specialize in creating beautiful, functional chicken coops that are handmade by Amish craftsmen. Our focus is on building sturdy, weather-resistant homes that keep your flock safe while adding a touch of charm to your backyard. As one reviewer noted, our coops are praised for their quality construction and thoughtful design. We believe your coop should be a joy to use, which is why we include features for predator safety and easy cleaning. Plus, every coop is highly customizable, allowing you to design a coop that perfectly matches your vision, right down to the paint color and hardware.
OverEZ Chicken Coops
If you’re looking for a straightforward setup process, OverEZ Chicken Coops is a name you’ll see often. They focus on creating durable coops that are designed for incredibly easy assembly, which is a huge plus for anyone who wants to get their coop up and running quickly. Built with high-quality materials, their coops come in several sizes to accommodate different flock numbers. Their user-friendly approach simplifies the process, making them a popular choice for both new and experienced chicken keepers who value convenience and a simple, no-fuss design that gets the job done.
Carolina Coops
Known for their beautiful, high-end designs, Carolina Coops builds coops that are as much a statement piece as they are a functional home for your flock. They put a strong emphasis on innovation and aesthetics, creating structures that are both predator-proof and visually stunning. You’ll notice their attention to detail and use of high-quality, eco-friendly materials. This appeals to owners who want a premium, long-lasting, and thoughtfully designed coop that provides ample, secure space for their chickens to thrive.
Urban Coop Company
For those raising chickens in the city, the Urban Coop Company offers smart solutions for smaller spaces. Their designs are compact without sacrificing function, proving you don’t need a huge yard to keep chickens happily and stylishly. They offer modern, clean-lined models that blend well with urban and suburban landscapes. Their coops are designed to be efficient, easy to clean, and secure, making them a great fit for city dwellers who want to enjoy the benefits of backyard chickens without taking up too much precious real estate.
Horizon Structures
Horizon Structures offers a wide variety of coops and other animal shelters, giving you plenty of options to choose from. Their designs prioritize durability and functionality, ensuring your coop can handle different weather conditions while keeping your chickens safe and comfortable. They offer many customization options, allowing you to tailor a coop to your specific needs, whether you need extra storage or a particular layout. With a focus on practical, easy-to-maintain structures, they are a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and versatile housing solution for their flock.
Williams Chicken Coops
With a focus on creating comfortable and roomy homes for chickens, Williams Chicken Coops offers a range of designs that cater to both small and large flocks. Their coops are built to provide spacious living conditions, with features that make daily chores like cleaning and egg collecting much easier. They blend functionality with classic aesthetics, resulting in coops that are both practical and pleasant to look at. Built to last, their models are a good option for chicken keepers who prioritize ample space and ease of access for flock management.
Understanding Coop Costs and Long-Term Value
When you start shopping for a large chicken coop, the price tags can feel a bit like sticker shock. But a coop isn't just a purchase; it's an investment in the health and safety of your flock for years to come. Thinking about the long-term value helps put the initial cost into perspective. A cheap coop that needs constant repairs or fails to protect your chickens from a predator isn't a bargain. Let's break down the factors that influence a coop's price and why putting your money into a quality build pays off.
How Size and Features Affect Price
It’s no surprise that the bigger the coop and the more features it has, the higher the price. A basic coop for a small flock will cost significantly less than a large, walk-in model designed for 15 or more chickens. Features like integrated storage, automatic doors, and decorative elements also add to the cost. When you browse different customizable chicken coops, think about which features are non-negotiable for you and your flock. Do you need extra space for feed and supplies? Is a walk-in design essential for easy cleaning? Answering these questions will help you find a coop that fits your budget and your daily routine.
Why Quality Materials Matter
The materials used to build your coop are the foundation of its longevity and safety. Many budget coops are made from thin wood and flimsy hardware that can warp, rot, or break down after just a season or two. In contrast, premium coops built by Amish craftsmen use high-quality, durable lumber and hardware designed to withstand the elements and deter predators. A well-built coop made from strong, long-lasting materials means you won't be spending your weekends on repairs. It provides peace of mind, knowing your flock is housed in a structure that’s as sturdy and reliable as your own home.
Factoring in Delivery and Setup
Don't forget to account for getting the coop to your backyard. Delivery and setup fees can be a significant, and sometimes hidden, cost. Some companies offer free shipping, but it’s important to understand what that includes. Does it mean the coop is dropped at the curb in a flat-pack box you have to assemble yourself, or does it include placement and setup? At Cutest Coops, we provide a white-glove delivery service, ensuring your coop arrives fully assembled and is placed exactly where you want it. This hassle-free experience is part of the value, saving you the time and stress of a complicated DIY project.
The Cost of Customization
Customization is where you get to create a coop that’s perfect for you and your flock. While adding custom features will influence the final price, it also ensures you get exactly what you need. You can design your coop from the ground up, choosing everything from the paint colors and trim to the roofing material and interior layout. This means your coop won't just be a functional home for your chickens; it will also be a beautiful addition to your property. Investing in customization upfront means you won't have to spend more later on modifications or wish you’d chosen a different layout.
Planning for Long-Term Upkeep
Every coop requires regular maintenance, but a well-designed coop makes the work much easier. You should plan on cleaning your coop at least once a week, removing soiled bedding and droppings to keep your flock healthy. A coop with smart design features—like easy-to-access nesting boxes, sufficient height for you to stand inside, and smooth, paintable surfaces—drastically cuts down on cleaning time. You can also add helpful coop accessories like integrated feed storage to streamline your chores. Investing in a coop that’s easy to maintain saves you countless hours of work over the years.
Why a Great Coop is a Worthy Investment
Ultimately, a high-quality coop is one of the best investments you can make for your flock. It’s a sturdy, well-made home that will last for many years, protecting your chickens from predators, harsh weather, and illness. While the initial cost is higher than a flimsy alternative, the long-term value is undeniable. You’ll save money on repairs and potential vet bills, and you’ll save time on maintenance. More importantly, you get the priceless peace of mind that comes from knowing your beloved chickens are safe and comfortable. Seeing your flock thrive in their beautiful, secure home makes it all worthwhile.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a walk-in coop really worth it? Absolutely. Think of it as the difference between cleaning a closet you have to crawl into versus one you can stand up in. A walk-in coop transforms daily chores from a back-breaking task into a simple, comfortable routine. Being able to stand upright to refill feeders, gather eggs, and sweep out bedding makes a huge difference in how much you enjoy managing your flock. It’s a feature that pays for itself in convenience every single day.
Should I buy a bigger coop than I need right now? Yes, if you can. It’s one of the smartest decisions you can make. The phenomenon of "chicken math" is very real, and it’s much easier to have the space ready when you decide to add a few more birds to your flock. Starting with a coop that gives you room to grow saves you the significant cost and hassle of having to upgrade your entire setup in a year or two. It gives you flexibility and peace of mind from the start.
What's the single most important feature for keeping my chickens safe? It’s less about a single feature and more about a secure system. The most critical element is ensuring every single opening is sealed with predator-proof materials. This means using heavy-duty hardware cloth (not flimsy chicken wire) on all windows and vents, and installing complex latches that a raccoon can’t figure out. A predator will exploit the weakest point, so a truly safe coop is one where the doors, windows, and construction are all equally strong and secure.
How do I prepare my yard for my new coop's delivery? The most important step is to create a level spot for the coop to sit on. A coop on uneven ground can have issues with its doors and structural integrity over time. We recommend creating a simple pad of gravel or concrete. This not only provides a stable, level foundation but also improves drainage to keep the coop floor dry and acts as an excellent barrier against digging predators.
Besides size, what makes a coop easy to clean? Smart design choices are key. A walk-in door is the first step, but also look for smooth, non-porous flooring that can be easily scraped or swept clean without trapping bacteria. Another game-changing feature is a droppings board placed directly under the roosting bars. Since chickens produce most of their waste at night while they sleep, a droppings board catches the majority of the mess in one easy-to-remove tray, making daily spot-cleaning incredibly fast.