Chicken Coop construction, part 1

We have finally embarked on our long-awaited backyard chicken adventure! After many delays, we decided there's no time like the present and so spent the weekend working on the coop. Our hope - fresh eggs by Christmas, and fabulous compost in spring, and maybe even new feathered friends for Flint :)

Even though it has become incredibly easier to buy pre-fab chicken coops online, we went with the home-grown variety, with Michael designing the plans and most of the weekend spent building it ourselves from the frame up!

It began with these plans:

Plans agreed upon, we headed to Home Depot and spent a good chunk of change (thanks to Dorothy!) on lumber and building supplies.

Step 1- build the floor:

Step 2 - build the frame:

For this part, since the posts are 8 feet tall, we moved the operation to the future site of the chicken coop, in the far corner of our yard. Our neighbors are already beginning to ask questions, but we hope to win them over with offerings of fresh eggs :)

Step 3 - up go the walls!:

We finished the main structure and built the roof all in the first day, and got it into place with the help of my Aunt and cousin - thanks guys! 

Step 4 - roofing and siding:

The next day we manhandled the roof onto the coop (not an easy task), and secured it all into place. Michael is drilling the roof onto the posts, below I am busy sawing wood to complete the siding.

Step 5 - finishing touches:

Here I am designing the chicken-shaped windows to go on the side of the coop, yes, our coop will be very stylish indeed :) 

Next steps - finishing the exit hole and ramp for the chickens, decorating the coop, building the enclosed run, and finally, getting the chickens! :) See you soon!