[Prod]

When I first started keeping chickens last year I made the mistake that a lot of people do, I think, and went overboard, paying nearly £300 for a coop etc.  Now I have increased my flock and also breed call ducks I realise that it can be done just as well for a lot less. I am fortunate that whilst we were extending our cottage I spent a lot with a local builder and got to know them. They now keep pallets for me  but specifically a type that are newer and better wood. They also give me the battons that comes with certain concrete materials to separate them plus any old off cuts. Some of the wood is a meter long and has a groove cut in it , ideal for pop hole doors.   Anyway  I have posted some pics of the latest coop I have built, plus the enclosure.  All the wood was free so all I had to buy was a few nails & screws, which I would use anyway, a couple of pairs of hinges and the mesh wire (which I got cheap as it is slight seconds)  I reackon I have saved a fortune!!!!!

[coop-de-tat]

Progress!

The rain finally stopped here a few hours ago and I managed to get a little bit more done. Creosoted all that needs it and finished the main frame. The floor is all ready to be cut and fixed tomorrow, with the promise of a good sunny weekend coming up I'm hoping to finish in a few days. WHOOPEE!

Then I'll wait about 10 days or so for the creosote to cure safely and I will be settling in my little harem :-]

Here's a pic of my project ready for the floor:=]

[ANHBUC]

Progress!

The rain finally stopped here a few hours ago and I managed to get a little bit more done. Creosoted all that needs it and finished the main frame. The floor is all ready to be cut and fixed tomorrow, with the promise of a good sunny weekend coming up I'm hoping to finish in a few days. WHOOPEE!

Then I'll wait about 10 days or so for the creosote to cure safely and I will be settling in my little harem :-]

Here's a pic of my project ready for the floor:=]

Did you mean creocote as you need a licence to use creosote and I believe that you are only supposed to use it on wood that has already been treated with it.  It is not suitable to be used near chickens.   

[coop-de-tat]

Did you mean creocote as you need a licence to use creosote and I believe that you are only supposed to use it on wood that has already been treated with it.  It is not suitable to be used near chickens.   

Creocote yeah that's it..........

CdT

[coop-de-tat]

Floor finished! And completed all the roof purlins. Will be tackling the side boxes tomorrow, let's hope the weather holds..............

No more smelly creocote. Will be using a good Cuprinol or Ronseal preserver on the ply and sidings to match the fence.





CdT

[GrannieAnnie]

Be careful of all the places that red mite can hide CdT!

[BobE]

Looking good

[coop-de-tat]

Be careful of all the places that red mite can hide CdT!

Yeah tell me about it.

I had a few probs with them the last time out before Mr Reynard enjoyed a banquet a couple of years ago.

I have liberally applied creocote over the frame, floor and roof joists. I'm hoping this might deter the little boogers. The siding and ply boxes will be butted up against these.

Only time will tell OC.

CdT

[coop-de-tat]

Looking good

TY Bob :=]

CdT

[BobE]

Is it worth using brown silicone to seal all the joints.  To reduce any gaps.  Would only cost a fiver.

[coop-de-tat]

Is it worth using brown silicone to seal all the joints.  To reduce any gaps.  Would only cost a fiver.

I have thought about sealant Bob. But hopefully  there will be no real gaps to worry about. Also the girls might have great fun pecking at any sealant that come loose after time.


CdT

[ANHBUC]

Probably not as the hens will merrily peck at it and won't be able to digest it.   

You can use a diatom slurry to paint the inside which most members find helps prevent the dreaded mites. 

[coop-de-tat]

I've been held up a little this week, but managed to finish the rear boxes and perches. Hoping to complete my little poultry palace in a day or two :=]




CdT

[BobE]

Looks lovely.

[coop-de-tat]

Looks lovely.

TY Bob :=]

Hoping to finish by Sunday. I fitted the front and door today and have the sidings and roof then remaining to be done. A few fiddly bits (pophole, dropdoor, a bolt or two and one or two more coats of preserver)

I have spoken to someone in Pembrey, Pembs who seems to offer a good choice of POL chickens I'll probably drive up there in the week.

Here's the latest pic.