Backyard Chicken Pen Building Tips
As you get ready to start building a backyard chicken pen, there are some critical aspects that
you must keep in mind so that you see optimal results from the process. Many people are
overlooking some aspects of the process that then lead them to have to either go back and rebuilt
later on or else have chickens that aren’t laying eggs on a regular basis - which is a frustrating
issue to say the least.
By taking the time to consider the following tips, you can help ensure that you do things right
the first time around. This will also help to save you money - sometimes hundreds of dollars
depending on the particular backyard chicken pen you’re building.
Here is what you must keep in mind.
Plan Your Windows Before Building
The first thing you should be doing is taking the time to plan the windows before you build your
backyard chicken pen. The windows are going to be the primary source of light for your chicken
coop, so you want to make sure that they are placed in the correct position.
You normally should cut the windows in the walls prior to constructing the coop so that you can
get this right. Also think about what direction is going to give you the most natural sunlight
since that’s where you should be maximizing the window placement on the chicken coop.
Think About Predators In Your Area
Second, also think about what predators are in your area that you will have to watch out for. In
some cases this will influence the type of design you use for your backyard chicken pen so it’s
something you definitely do not want to overlook.
Be sure whatever building plan you use, it thoroughly discusses the different predators that hunt
for chickens and gives clear indications what areas have to worry about these the most. This will
give you a good starting point to work off of when attempting to maximally protect your
chickens.
Consider Your Primary Light Source
Now, if you happen to live in a location that doesn’t get a lot of natural sunlight, it will be
important that you think about wiring in some electrical light into the backyard chicken pen.
Chickens do not respond well when they are not getting enough light, whether it’s sunlight or
electrical light, so find a way to make sure your coop is well lit.
Electrical light can get to be rather expensive so usually it’s better to avoid this if you can, but in
some cases that just isn’t possible.

Don’t Overlook Ventilation
Finally, also be sure that you don’t overlook ventilation in the backyard chicken pen. This will
help ensure that the air inside stays fresh and is not only enjoyable for your chickens, but for you
as well. If you hardly want to go into the chicken coop, the chances that you’re regularly
maintaining it and spending time with the chickens will be dramatically reduced.
By being sure you keep these tips in mind, you will increase your chances of creating a
backyard chicken pen that’s a big success. The more information you can gain before you
start to build, the better your results will get.