Are you considering raising chickens in your backyard? If so, building a chicken coop run is a crucial step to ensure that your feathered friends are safe and happy. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about building a chicken coop run, from planning and preparation to maintenance and care.
Contents
Introduction

A chicken coop run is an enclosed outdoor area attached to a chicken coop, providing chickens with a safe and secure space to roam, exercise, and enjoy fresh air and sunshine. It’s essential to have a chicken coop run if you’re raising chickens, as it protects them from predators and keeps them from wandering off. Plus, a well-built chicken coop run can help keep your chickens healthy and happy, which means more eggs for you!
Importance of Having a Chicken Coop Run

Without a chicken coop run, your chickens will be vulnerable to predators such as foxes, raccoons, and birds of prey. These predators can wreak havoc on your chickens, causing injury, stress, or even death. Additionally, chickens that are allowed to roam freely can cause damage to your garden or yard and may even become a nuisance to your neighbors.
Benefits of Building Your Own Chicken Coop Run
By building your own chicken coop run, you have complete control over its design, size, and features. You can customize it to suit your specific needs and preferences, such as adding a roof, nesting boxes, or a fenced area. Plus, building your own chicken coop run can be a fun and rewarding project that brings you closer to your chickens. And, by keeping your chickens safe and happy, you’ll be rewarded with delicious, fresh eggs for years to come.
Stay tuned for the next section, where we’ll discuss planning and preparation for building your chicken coop run.
Planning and Preparation
Before you start building your chicken coop run, it’s essential to plan and prepare properly. Here are some things to consider:
Choosing the Right Location for Your Chicken Coop Run
The location of your chicken coop run is crucial for the safety and well-being of your chickens. Ideally, it should be in a flat and dry area with good drainage, away from any potential hazards such as busy roads or low-hanging branches. It should also be in an area with plenty of shade and access to fresh water.
Deciding on the Size of Your Chicken Coop Run
The size of your chicken coop run will depend on the number of chickens you plan to keep. As a general rule, each chicken needs at least 4 square feet of space in the coop run. So, if you have four chickens, your coop run should be at least 16 square feet. However, it’s always better to go larger than smaller, so your chickens have plenty of room to move around.
Selecting the Materials for Your Chicken Coop Run
The materials you choose for your chicken coop run will affect its durability, cost, and appearance. Some popular materials for chicken coop runs include wood, PVC, and metal. Wood is a popular choice for its natural look and affordability, but it requires regular maintenance to prevent rotting and termite damage. PVC is durable and easy to clean, but it can be more expensive than wood. Metal is sturdy and long-lasting, but it can also be costly and may require welding or specialized tools to assemble.
By taking time to plan and prepare, you can ensure that your chicken coop run is safe, comfortable, and functional for your chickens. In the next section, we’ll discuss how to build your chicken coop run step-by-step.
Building the Chicken Coop Run
Now that you’ve planned and prepared for your chicken coop run, it’s time to start building! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to build a chicken coop run that’s secure and safe for your chickens.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Start by measuring and marking out the area where you want to build your chicken coop run. Make sure it’s large enough to accommodate your chickens comfortably.
- Next, dig holes for the corner posts and set them in place using concrete or gravel. Make sure they’re level and secure.
- Attach the horizontal support beams to the corner posts, using bolts or screws to secure them in place.
- Install the chicken wire or mesh fencing around the perimeter of the run, making sure to bury it at least 6 inches deep to prevent predators from digging under it.
- Add a door to the chicken coop run, making sure it’s secure and can be locked to keep predators out.
- Finally, add any customizations to your chicken coop run, such as a roof to provide shade and shelter, nesting boxes for your chickens to lay their eggs, or a fenced area for them to scratch and peck.
Tips for a Secure and Safe Chicken Coop Run
- Make sure the chicken wire or mesh fencing is sturdy and tightly secured to prevent predators from squeezing through or tearing it.
- Bury the fencing at least 6 inches deep to prevent predators from digging under it.
- Use hardware cloth or welded wire mesh to cover any openings or gaps in the chicken coop run, such as windows or vents.
- Make sure the door to the chicken coop run is secure and can be locked to prevent predators from getting in.
- Use non-toxic materials for any customizations, such as roofing or nesting boxes, to ensure the safety of your chickens.
Suggestions for Customizing Your Chicken Coop Run
- Add a roof to provide shade and shelter for your chickens.
- Install nesting boxes for your chickens to lay their eggs.
- Create a fenced area within the chicken coop run for your chickens to scratch and peck.
- Add perches or roosting bars for your chickens to rest on at night.
- Install a waterer and feeder to provide your chickens with food and water.
Stay tuned for the next section, where we’ll discuss maintenance and care for your chicken coop run.
Maintenance and Care
Once you’ve built your chicken coop run, it’s essential to maintain it properly to keep your chickens healthy and happy. In this section, we’ll discuss how to maintain and clean your chicken coop run, tips on keeping your chickens healthy and happy, and advice on how to protect your chicken coop run from predators and other risks.
How to Maintain and Clean Your Chicken Coop Run
Cleaning your chicken coop run is an essential part of maintaining a healthy environment for your chickens. You should clean your coop run at least once a week, removing any leftover food, droppings, and soiled bedding. This will help prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria that can lead to illness.
To clean your chicken coop run, first, remove all the chickens and any movable objects, such as feeders and waterers. Next, use a rake or shovel to remove any debris and soiled bedding. Then, use a hose or pressure washer to wash down the coop run, paying special attention to the corners and crevices where dirt and bacteria can accumulate. Finally, let the coop run dry completely before adding fresh bedding and returning your chickens.
Tips on Keeping Your Chickens Healthy and Happy in Their Coop Run
In addition to maintaining a clean environment, there are several other things you can do to keep your chickens healthy and happy in their coop run. First, make sure your chickens have access to fresh water and nutritious food at all times. You can use a gravity-fed feeder or a hanging feeder to keep their food clean and dry.
Second, provide your chickens with plenty of space to move around and exercise. A good rule of thumb is to allow at least 10 square feet of space per chicken in the coop run. You can also add perches and other structures for your chickens to climb on and play.
Third, make sure your chickens have access to shade and shelter from the elements. You can add a roof or awning to your chicken coop run to protect your chickens from the sun and rain.
Advice on How to Protect Your Chicken Coop Run from Predators and Other Risks
Finally, it’s essential to protect your chicken coop run from predators and other risks. You can do this by installing a secure fence around the perimeter of the coop run and using a secure latch on the door. You can also add a wire mesh floor or apron to prevent predators from digging under the fence.
Additionally, you should be on the lookout for signs of illness or stress in your chickens, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or unusual behavior. If you notice any of these signs, isolate the affected chicken and seek advice from a veterinarian or poultry expert.
By following these maintenance and care tips, you can ensure that your chicken coop run is a safe and healthy environment for your chickens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you’re new to raising chickens, you probably have many questions about chicken coop runs. In this section, we’ll answer some of the most common questions we receive from chicken owners.
How much space do my chickens need?
The general rule of thumb is to provide at least 2-3 square feet of space per chicken in the coop run. However, if you have large breed chickens or plan to keep them confined to the run for extended periods, you may need to provide more space. It’s also important to remember that chickens need room to move around and stretch their wings, so be sure to provide enough space for them to do so comfortably.
How often should I clean the coop run?
It’s essential to keep your chicken coop run clean to prevent the buildup of bacteria and other harmful pathogens. Depending on the size of your chicken coop run and the number of chickens you have, you may need to clean it once a week or more frequently. Remove any droppings, debris, or bedding, and replace with fresh material. It’s also a good idea to sanitize the coop run periodically to prevent the spread of disease.
How can I protect my chicken coop run from predators?
There are several things you can do to protect your chicken coop run from predators, including:
- Installing a sturdy fence around the run
- Covering the top of the run with wire mesh or netting
- Adding motion-activated lights or alarms
- Locking the coop run securely at night
Remember, even the most secure chicken coop run may not be 100% predator-proof, so it’s essential to stay vigilant and keep a close eye on your chickens.
Stay tuned for the next section, where we’ll discuss maintenance and care for your chicken coop run.
Conclusion
In conclusion, building a chicken coop run is essential if you’re raising chickens in your backyard. Not only does it provide a safe and secure space for your feathered friends, but it also helps keep them healthy, happy, and productive. By following our comprehensive guide, you can build a chicken coop run that meets your specific needs and preferences, providing your chickens with a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor space.
Remember, Critter Kingdom has everything you need for your backyard chickens, including high-quality chicken coops, runs, and accessories. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken owner or just starting, Critter Kingdom has the knowledge, expertise, and products to help you succeed.
Thank you for reading our article on how to build a chicken coop run. We hope you found it informative and helpful. Now, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get to work building your own chicken coop run!