10 DIY Ideas to Build a Budget Chicken Coop: Cost to Build, Chicken Housing Basics

Raising chickens has become a popular hobby and is an increasingly affordable way to provide fresh eggs for your family. Building a chicken coop doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor. With the right tools, materials, and plans, you can build a budget-friendly coop that meets all your chicken needs.

Why build a chicken coop?

Chickens are relatively low-maintenance animals but still need basic housing requirements. Your coop should have plenty of ventilation, natural light, and outdoor access. It should also be predator-proof, so keep that in mind when choosing your location. There are many reasons to build a chicken coop, whether you’re a farmer with a large flock or a backyard enthusiast with a few chickens. Chicken coops provide shelter from the elements and predators and help keep your chickens healthy and happy. Building a chicken coop can be simple or complex, depending on your needs and preferences.

Key considerations to keep in mind when planning and building your coop

The cost of materials is the most important factor in deciding whether or not to build your chicken coop. Most people believe buying a pre-made chicken coop is cheaper than building one from scratch, but this is not always the case. The cost of lumber, wire mesh, and other materials needed to build a chicken coop can add up quickly. If you are handy with tools and have some basic carpentry skills, you can easily build your chicken coop for less than it would cost to buy one pre-made.

Another factor to consider for building a chicken coop is the size of the structure. Chickens need plenty of room to move around and exercise, so it is important to build a coop that is large enough for them to do so. However, you also don’t want to build a chicken coop that is too large.

Cost to build a chicken coop

The small chicken coop will house 2-3 chickens and cost under $100.
The typical cost range for a medium chicken coop is $300–$2,000.
A large and high-end chicken coop can run $4,000 or more.

Different materials used to build a chicken coop

Softwood – A budget-friendly framing material, softwood can also be used for walls and roofing.
PVC – This affordable and lightweight modern framing material is usually combined with mesh and plastic.
Pressure-Treated Lumber – This is an affordable framing material resistant to rot and insect infestation. There is concern about chemicals used in production that can harm chickens.
Redwood – Naturally insect and rot-resistant, redwood requires no staining, sealing, or chemical applications. It’s a long-lasting framing material suitable for walls and roofs.
Plywood – It is a budget-friendly wall and roofing material; plywood may require additional siding installation.
Corrugated Tin – A strong, durable sheeting material for roofs and walls, it’s low-maintenance and long-lasting.
Metal Chicken Coops – Metal coops are long-lasting and sturdy. They provide the best protection against predators and pests. Metal is easy to clean and doesn’t usually harbor lice, mites, or diseases. Heavy, metal chicken tractors stand up extremely well to being moved around.
Hardwood Chicken Coops – Hardwood creates a sturdy chicken coop that lasts a long time. If well-built, the coop will deter predators and pests.
Mesh – It is necessary to cover windows, seal the coop against predators, and make a run for your hens. The higher-end mesh keeps out even the most persistent predators.

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10 DIY ideas to build a budget chicken coop

Portable poultry pen

It is super easy to put together because it’s primarily made of PVC pipes. Three styles of PVC chicken coops are available here, including a smaller, portable option that would fit in a backyard.

Portable chicken mini-coop plan

It will make a quick day project because it incorporates an already-built barn-style doghouse and fencing to create a haven for your chickens. The price is right, with the material listed under $100.

A single 2×4 makes a perfect roost.

This should be the cheapest part of your coop, honestly. As long as you have a foot apiece for each hen to call her own, the cheapest building material here is, for once, the best.

Use recycled materials

One way to save money on chicken housing is to use recycled materials. You can often find suitable materials for free or at a fraction of the cost of new building materials. For example, pallets can create walls and roofs, while old tires can be repurposed as nesting boxes.

Keep it simple

You don’t need a fancy coop to house your chickens. A simple design will do just fine and will cost less to build. Stick to the basics of chicken housing, and you’ll save some money.

Get creative with your design

There are many possibilities when it comes to designing your chicken coop. Get creative and think outside the box. You may find great construction materials deals online or at local second-hand stores.

Insulate and ventilate the coop

Proper insulation will help keep your chickens warm in the winter season and cool in the summer, which can save you money on energy bills. Good ventilation is important for keeping your chickens healthy, so include plenty of vents in your coop design.

Make use of natural light

Take advantage of natural light by building your chicken coop in an open area or near a window. This will help you save on lighting costs.

Build a predator-proof coop

Keep your chickens safe from predators by building a sturdy, well-protected coop. This may cost a bit more upfront, but it’s worth it for peace of mind.

Choose low-maintenance materials

When selecting materials for your chicken coop, opt for those that are low-maintenance and easy to clean. This will save you time and money in the long run.

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Conclusion

The chicken coop design is simple, but it’s also the most important element of keeping a happy and healthy flock of chickens. Building a chicken coop doesn’t have to be expensive. You can use recycled materials and even repurpose an old shed or outbuilding. The most important thing is ensuring the coop is well-insulated and draft-free.