How to Get the Most from Chicken Run Plans

Here we will look into common building materials and basic plans for building a chicken coop with a chicken run. You must first determine which type of chicken coop you want to build.

Costs: A pre-fabricated chicken coop can cost thousands of dollars. It may not be the size you want, and will limit you if you want to expand it. If you build a chicken coop yourself it can cost much less money. One way to make sure of this is to start with a focused plan. You don’t want to spend extra money rebuilding everything! There are many factors you should consider when researching chicken run plans.

Planning for space, size, materials and blueprints is important for getting the great results you want. Getting these steps in order before you begin is key to your success. Here are 3 basic steps to get started:


1. First, take metal or wooden posts and sink them in the ground about 12-24” deep. You can use concrete in the hole for a more solid base. You will be creating a rectangle shape in the size specified by your plans. Chicken coops should allow 4 square feet per chicken in the chicken coop, and for the outside run you should allow 10 square feet per chicken .


2. Next, create a frame by sinking 2x4 boards into the ground. It’s a good idea to create a base for the floor with a sheet of metal, wood or chicken wire and attach this to your floor boards. Don’t forget predators will dig under the fence and come up into the floor of your chicken coop!


3. Apply the boards of the top of the frame at an angle which allows rain to run off the roof. You can use sheet metal, tin or wood for the roof. 4. The materials you choose will affect the cost of your overall chicken coop building plans.
There are many options open to you when it comes to materials.


These include everything from wood, sheet metal, PVC, and wire. However, if you are thinking of a long lasting chicken coop that will withstand the weather in all seasons for years to come, we recommend investing in quality materials which are in good condition. Wood can be the most costly material.


Lumber will need to be strong, weather treated woods that are solid enough to withstand weather and predator attacks. However, you can source wood from scrap sites, junk yards and many other areas. As long as the wood is in good condition, it will last for years. You may not get wood of all the same pattern or grain or color, but painting or staining can add the final touch to your chicken coop and make it look like new.


You want to be sure you build the right chicken coop to meet your needs. We offer do-it-yourself guides and reviews that might help you in your chicken run plans.