Don’t you just hate a hard to follow blueprint? I mean it may not be hard to follow if you’re an architect or contractor. But for the average Joe who just likes to build something once in a while, simplicity is key! Here we present an easy to follow free chicken coop plan for two to four chickens.
When we’re looking for chicken coop plans of any size, simplicity is something factored in. In other words, how easy is it to build? This plan is a very basic, simple design that is one of the easiest plans to follow.
It’s a 2 foot (ft) by 4 ft coop for two to four chickens, depending on size of chickens. It will hold up to four Bantams or two or three regular to larger sized breeds.
Below is a handy sizing guide.
If you’ve never built a coop before, this is a good one to start with! It can be made with basic tools if you don’t have (or want) any power tools.
simple-coop-for-two-chx-FABIModifications (optional)
This plan has just about everything you need. However, there are a few ideas we wanted to mention that may make the coop more user friendly for the chickens and you!
Again, these are just ideas. Feel free to take ’em or leave ’em!
Roosts
This coop plan does not show a roost inside. Thankfully, adding a roost or two is an easy addition!
The diagram below shows one possible roost configuration, placing one on each side of the nest box. If you only have two chickens, one roost should work nicely. Since the length across is 2ft, it provides one foot of roost space per chicken, which is plenty.
Move The Nest Boxes To One Of The Corners
The positioning of the nest boxes is fine, considering that the sides both have mesh netting. That is a lot of ventilation, which is great for warmer climates or in the hot summers.
However, if you want to save some time and labor, one of the sides could simply be made of plywood, leaving the other side open. This still allows for fresh air to enter, but gives the chickens a place out of the wind if living in colder climates.
Roof
This design uses a flat roof. In other words, there’s no slope on it to shed the rain downward. You can consider making a slight roof pitch on each of the shorter sides to attach the roof to, but it’s not as essential with a small coop.
We recommend using a metal roof material as it will last much longer. If you want to use roll roofing, it’s another viable option but will have to be replaced in 5-10 years. Many people simply add another layer of roll roofing over top of the old.
More information on flat roofs can be found here.
Windows (hardware cloth)
As mentioned earlier, the short sides of the coop design show only mesh netting or hardware cloth. This is much easier to build and allows for plenty of ventilation.
But does one really NEED that much ventilation. We think not, unless you live in a very warm climate year round.
If you live in a geographic region with more seasonal temps, consider closing off one of the sides with plywood. Not only will it protect your chickens from the elements, it’ll also make it easier to build!
Hinges
Hinges for the pop door (where the chickens enter/exit) aren’t shown in the plan. This is an easy fix! Just add a couple hinges so the ramp (or ladder) can be closed and secured at night.
If you don’t have issues with predators in your area, you can leave the pop door open. It’s really a matter of preference.
Another idea is adding hinges to the roof on one of the long sides. This will allow you to open the roof to clean the coop and access the eggs. If that doesn’t work for you, no worries. You can reach in through the pop door to get the eggs.
Below is a diagram showing where the hinges could go:
Closing Thoughts
If you’re wanting to try your hand at building a simple coop, we think this plan is a good one to start with!
It’s a very functional coop that can last for years with a good paint job and regular maintenance.
If you don’t like the design, no worries! Feel free to check out other FREE plans listed in the main menu or in the links to other coops.
Thanks for stopping by!