How to Construct a Shed for Laying Hens

Raising poultry has become a popular hobby due to consumer interest in humane produce and cleaner, safer eggs. Many people enjoy having pets, such as hens, that are personable, clean, and that, simultaneously, provide insect removal, fertilizer and eggs. Hens need a barn to provide shelter and protection from predators. There are dozens of plans for chicken coops ranging from the practical to the highly ornate. Building a poultry shed requires advanced carpentry skills.

Things You'll Need

  • Shed Blueprint
  • Lumber (or barn kit)
  • Plywood
  • Roof flashing
  • Shingles (roof and siding)
  • Windows
  • Hinges
  • Hardware cloth (secure wire)
  • Door handle
  • Screws and nails
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Instructions

  1. Pitched Roof 8-by-12 Shed

    • 1

      Acquire construction and building skills before attempting this complicated project. Begin framing the walls by bracing and screwing the 2-by-4 wall studs into the floor beam. Use six or seven 2-by-4 studs. Build two side walls and two front and back walls. Consider window spacing. Measure the size of the rough-opening for the windows. Cut the measured window "rough" spaces into the framing. Allow for the desired front door size by cutting the studs of the frame to consider this opening.

    • 2

      Build the floor of the shed upon a poured concrete base or to be set upon concrete blocks. Use three blocks per side -- one on each corner and one in the center. Use at least 2-by-6 lumber for the floor joists. Bolt the floor together and use notching of beams or metal braces depending on design. Screw the plywood floor to the joists.

    • 3

      Screw the framed walls to the floor. Build the rafters using lumber coded for the snow load in the area. Screw the rafters to the frame.

    • 4

      Cut plywood to fit the walls. Add insulation if desired. Screw in the windows and make a frame for the wire window covers. Screw the wire covers to the outside of the window frame or use hinges and a latch for movable wire frames.

    • 5

      Screw the plywood to the roof beams. Choose from the variety of shingle available at hardware stores; consider cedar wood shingle/shakes for the roof.

    Finishing Touches

    • 6

      Construct the door jamb out of remaining lumber. Cut the boards, and screw into the door opening. Screw hinges to the door. Hang the the door by screwing the hinges into the jamb. Nail shingles or decorative shiplap siding to the outside of the shed. Paint or stain the siding. Add a hardwood floor or horse stall mats for the interior floor.

    • 7

      Attach nest boxes if desired (most hens love empty boxes and paper shavings bags). Screw roosts into the wall facing the window so birds can see outside.

    • 8

      Add latches and a handle to the door. Add a cupola or roof vent if necessary or desired. Consider wiring for electricity.