When you’re building a chicken coop, there are a few features that can make all the difference. It’s not just about creating a nice space for your chickens to hang out; it’s about making sure they have a comfortable, safe, and easy-to-maintain home. Let’s take a look at the essential features every chicken coop should have, and why they matter so much.

What does a good chicken coop need?

1. Proper ventilation

First things first, your chicken coop needs to breathe. Chickens produce a lot of heat and moisture, and without proper ventilation, things can get stuffy. This can lead to health problems for your chickens and a not-so-fresh smelling coop. You want to make sure there are enough air vents to let the fresh air in and keep the bad air out.

If you live in a hot climate, you’ll need a little extra airflow to keep things cool in the summer. If you’re in a cooler area, good ventilation will help with humidity control, which is key for keeping your chickens happy and healthy. Make sure your chicken coop has high ceilings with vents to keep it well ventilated all year round!

2. Nesting boxes

Chickens need a place to lay their eggs. That’s where nesting boxes come in. These boxes are essential for collecting fresh eggs and keeping your hens comfortable. Nesting boxes should be placed in a quiet, private corner of the chicken coop. They need to be easy to access for you (egg collection should never be a hassle!), and the boxes should be roomy enough for your chickens to get in comfortably. If you have multiple hens, make sure you have enough nesting boxes. A good rule of thumb is one box for every 3-4 hens. And let’s be honest, having nice, clean nesting boxes makes egg collection much more pleasant for you, too!

3. Easy access for cleaning

No one enjoys cleaning, but it’s a necessary part of chicken coop ownership. You need to make sure the chicken coop has easy access for cleaning, so it doesn’t become a smelly chore. Look for features like removable poop trays under the roosting bars or easy-to-open panels for cleaning out the bedding. A well-designed chicken coop will allow you to quickly remove waste and keep everything fresh and tidy. Trust me, the easier the cleanup, the more often you’ll want to do it!

The Coop De Grass - chicken coop

4. Water-resistant foundations

Let’s face it, chickens aren’t the most tidy creatures. They spill water, scatter food, and generally make a bit of a mess. If your chicken coop’s foundation isn’t water-resistant, things can get damp and gross real quick. You don’t want a soggy floor attracting pests or creating a breeding ground for bacteria. Make sure your chicken coop has water-resistant foundations, walls, and floors to keep things dry, especially during the wet months. It’ll help keep the coop in top shape for longer, and your chickens will appreciate it, too.

5. Protection from predators

Chickens have a lot of enemies. From sneaky foxes to curious raccoons, you need to make sure your chicken coop is well-secured. The last thing you want is for a predator to sneak in and cause chaos. A good chicken coop will have strong wire mesh to protect your hens from predators. You should also make sure the coop is off the ground, so rats or other small critters can’t burrow in. Some chicken coops even have a “Queenslander” style to keep your chickens safe from floods, pests, and predators, making sure your girls are well protected!

6. Roosting bars

Chickens love to roost. After a long day of clucking around, your hens need a comfy spot to perch and sleep. Roosting bars are a must-have in any chicken coop. These bars should be placed high enough off the ground to give your chickens plenty of space, and they need to be sturdy enough to support your chickens’ weight. Make sure they’re easy to clean and have enough room for all of your hens to perch comfortably. This will help your chickens feel safe and secure at night, and it will keep their feathers looking nice and neat, too!

7. Aesthetic appeal

Okay, so this one might seem a little less important, but hear me out – an attractive chicken coop can add a lot to your backyard. If you’re going to have a chicken coop in your yard, you might as well make it look nice, right? A rustic farmhouse style or a cute design can really bring charm to your garden. And when you have friends over, you’ll be proud to show off your chickens’ cozy little tiny home! Plus, having a beautiful chicken coop makes it feel like a real feature of your outdoor space, not just an afterthought.

Coop house custom built by wood.

8. Weatherproofing

Whether you live in a tropical climate or an area that sees snow, you need to weatherproof your chicken coop. The roof is a key element here. A Colourbond roof in the colour of your choice will not only keep your chickens dry but also add to the coop’s overall look. Good weatherproofing will keep the coop warm in the winter and cool in the summer, making your chickens comfortable all year round.

9. Space for the chickens to roam

Chickens are naturally curious creatures. They need space to roam and peck around. A good chicken coop will include a spacious run attached to the coop. This allows your chickens to get fresh air and exercise while staying safe. Make sure the chicken coop’s run is large enough to give your hens room to move around, but not so big that they can’t easily find their way back inside when it’s time to roost.

10. Built to last

Last but definitely not least—your chicken coop needs to be sturdy. You don’t want a flimsy, weak coop that’s going to fall apart in a year or two. A well-built chicken coop should last at least 10 years with proper care. Look for high-quality materials, like treated pine or durable wood, to make sure your chicken coop can withstand the elements. With solid construction, your chicken coop will be a long-lasting addition to your backyard.

In short, a well-designed chicken coop isn’t just about making your chickens happy, it’s about making life easier for you, too. From ventilation to nesting boxes to easy cleaning, these features are essential for keeping your chickens comfortable, healthy, and safe. So, when you’re planning your chicken coop, make sure it ticks all these boxes!

chicken Coop house custom built by wood.