Are you confused between DIY and buying a prefab chicken coop? If so, this guide will help you choose the one that’s right for you.
Backyard chicken keeping is more popular than ever. People love the idea of fresh eggs and a more self-reliant lifestyle.
But before your chickens arrive, you need to make an important choice—where will they live?
You have two main options: build a coop yourself or buy a ready-made one. Each has its pros and cons.
A good coop keeps your chickens safe from predators and adverse weather conditions. It provides them with a dry, cozy place to sleep and lay eggs. It also makes your daily chores easier.
This guide will help you compare both options. We’ll consider cost, time, design, and what other chicken keepers have to say. By the end, you’ll know which setup best suits your needs.
Advantages of Building Your Chicken Coop
You have total control when designing and building your chicken coop. Whether you prefer a large or small design, a simple or complex one, you can customize it to suit your taste.
This ensures that the coop matches your yard and complements your house. Additionally, you can choose the features that will best serve your hens.
Do you want to install nesting boxes to guarantee the cleanliness of the eggs? You can then include them.
Are you considering a deep litter system or automatic doors? It’s all up to you. A pre-configured setup won’t be required of you.
You can save money if you’re a DIY enthusiast by using leftover wood or repurposing old pallets.
Building the coop is more affordable because many people can find free or inexpensive materials at nearby stores or construction sites.
Because some store-bought coops use weak latches or thin wood, the ability to choose the quality of materials is another critical benefit.
Better materials, such as stronger parts, can be used when building the coop yourself, keeping predators out ,and ensuring the coop remains sturdy.
Not to mention the personal advantage. Making something yourself is incredibly fulfilling. Working on this project with the family is also enjoyable. Kids can help and learn at the same time.
Disadvantages and Challenges of DIY Chicken Coops
Self-constructing a coop offers benefits; it’s not necessarily easy or quick. If you have a busy schedule or no building experience, you need 2-4 weeks of leave from your office.
It can take longer than you think to sketch, pick the materials, and put your idea together.
One of my friends said they used a vacation week and two additional weekends to finish building their chicken coop. Rain or snow could slow down your coop-building time.
Skill matters too. If you don’t know how to use tools or have never built anything before, it will be very challenging for you to build a coop.
Measurements, saw safety, and fitting things together require knowledge and skill. If you make errors? You need to solve them, which takes time and money.
DIY may seem like a cost-effective option, but hidden costs can pile up quickly. Drills and circular saws may be needed.
You could run out of materials and need to buy more. Making a mistake, cutting or miscalculating your design, increases waste and cost.
Physical effort is also needed. You’ll be outside moving timber, hammering, and drilling, possibly in bad weather.
My friend also told me that it was the “hardest and most dangerous project” they ever did, so it’s not for the faint of heart.
Remember local laws. Depending on your location, you may need to obtain permission or zoning approval before you can build.
Conduct research, complete the necessary forms, and ensure your chicken coop complies with the regulations. It’s essential.
You can save money and have more control over things if you do them yourself, but it takes a lot of time, work, and skill. It might be hard if you don’t have any of those.
Detailed Cost Breakdown for DIY Chicken Coops
How Much Does It Cost to Build Your Chicken Coop?
Prices for DIY chicken coops are different. Some people build simple shelters out of free or recycled materials for less than $100.
People who want premium features in their large, custom coops spend $4,000 or more. Most people pay between $300 and $2,000, with an average cost of $650.
Wood is one of the most expensive things. Softwood is cheap for framing, costing about $2 to $3 per board foot.
Pressure-treated wood is stronger and more resistant to weather, and it costs $4 to $10 per board foot.
Redwood costs $10 to $12 per board foot, but it doesn’t rot or get bugs. It costs $10 to $20 per sheet to make plywood for walls and roofs.
Want to save money? You can obtain free pallets or scrap wood from local businesses or job sites.
The cost of roofing can also go up. Corrugated tin is a strong and affordable material, costing between $1 and $5 per square foot. Asphalt shingles come in a lot of different styles and are popular.
You can find simple roof covers online for $25 to $40, but heavy-duty ones from specialty stores cost $350 or more. For 99 square feet, metal roofing kits for significant buildings cost $140 to $150.
Other items on the list are screws, latches, hinges, and bolts. It adds up, especially if you want hardware that won’t let predators in. Some downloadable coop plans give an estimate of this cost.
Fencing for safety is a must. For keeping predators away, hardware cloth is the best choice. It costs $1 to $3 per square foot or $30 to $40 per roll. It’s safer than bare chicken wire, which costs $0.50 to $2 per square foot.
The price of a coop depends on how it is built. A-frame coops cost between $200 and $500, while chicken tractors cost between $300 and $700.
If you want something fancy, a big walk-in coop or an all-in-one with an attached run can cost anywhere from $300 to more than $2,000.
Don’t forget the extras. Vinyl, boards, rubber, or concrete flooring; windows for airflow ($50–$300); and sealant for wood protection may be needed.
You can build nesting boxes and roosting bars out of old wood, buckets, or PVC pipes. Printed or digital cooperative plans are available for prices ranging from $10 to $30.
The result? The cost of building your coop depends on its size, style, and the quality of materials used.
| Material | Unit Cost/Price Range | Notes |
| Softwood Lumber | $2-$3 per board foot | Framing, walls, roofing |
| Pressure-Treated Lumber | $4-$10 per board foot | Ground contact, support |
| Redwood | $10-$12 per board foot | Durable, rot-resistant |
| Plywood | $10-$20 per sheet | Walls, flooring, roofing |
| Corrugated Tin Roofing | $1-$5 per sq ft / $15-$20 per sheet | Durable, low-maintenance |
| Asphalt Shingles | Varies | Common roofing material |
| Hardware Cloth | $1-$3 per sq ft / $30-$40 per roll | Predator protection |
| Chicken Wire | $0.50-$2 per sq ft | Fencing, less secure against predators |
| Screws/Nails | Varies | Fastening materials |
| Hinges/Latches | Varies | Door and access point hardware |
| Paint/Sealant | Varies | Wood protection, weatherproofing |
| DIY Plans (if purchased) | $10-$30 | Optional, provides guidance |
| Flooring (various) | $2-$125 per unit | Vinyl, wood, rubber, and concrete |
| Ventilation (vents/windows) | $50 – $300 | Airflow and temperature regulation |
Depending on your options, building a chicken coop can be very expensive. Using recycled materials or making wise purchases can help you save money.
Ensure you have sufficient funds and plan every aspect of the build. You can construct a fantastic coop at a reasonable cost if you prepare correctly.
How Much Time Does Building a Chicken Coop Take?
It takes time to build a chicken house from scratch, and sometimes more time than you think.
A small DIY chicken coop can be built in a few weekends. If you’re busy or new to building, the project could take weeks or months.
The time it takes depends on how well you know how to use tools, the level of detail in your coop design, the coop’s size, and whether you have the necessary tools.
Follow a few easy steps. First, make a blueprint. Draw a design or find a blueprint that works for your location and flock.
It could take hours or even days. Next, get your supplies. You may need to visit multiple stores or wait for deliveries.
Most of your time will be spent cutting wood and assembling items. A simple build can be done in a day or two with help. This phase can take weeks for many people, especially if they are doing it alone.
After you build the main structure, you’ll need to paint or seal it, and then install latches and locks. This takes time.
Delays are also common. It might rain, you might cut wrong, or you might realize you’re missing parts halfway through. Obstacles may cause things to take even longer.
If you want to do it yourself, set aside some time to do so. It takes time to build a coop, and rushing could cause mistakes.
Customising Your DIY Chicken Coop
Freedom is a significant reason people create chicken coops. DIY allows you to customize your design. Instead, design a coop that suits your flock, yard, and taste.
Want something easy and practical? Or an eye-catching design? Both are possible. Some build coops from pallets or garden structures.
Others create imaginative treehouse-style coops that match their home’s architecture. Make your coop unique or straightforward.
Building it yourself lets you add your desired features. Do you need more feed or garden tool storage?
No issue. Want greater circulation for your hot climate or a deep litter system to reduce cleaning? You can design for that.
You can tailor the space to your larger breeds or mixed flock.
DIYers create movable chicken tractors to move their flock about the yard. Others use strong locks or wire mesh to deter local predators.
You’re not alone in needing ideas. DIY coop designs on Pinterest and Instructables range from functional to creative.
Some engage Carolina Coops or Cutest Coops to design their dream arrangement.
Building a coop is more than just a shelter. Customizing a home for your chickens shows your inventiveness. This flexibility is impossible with pre-made solutions.
The Prefabricated Chicken Coop: Convenience and Ready-Made Solutions
Why a Prefabricated Chicken Coop Might Be the Right Fit
A prefabricated chicken coop is a creative, stress-free alternative to creating one from scratch.
These coops are ready-made and delivered to your home, saving you weeks of planning, buying, cutting, and fitting.
A major benefit? Speed. DIY projects may take weekends or months, while prefab coops can be assembled quickly.
Some models may be constructed in under an hour using basic equipment. Most have basic, step-by-step directions, even for those who are unhandy.
Poultry experts create many pre-built coops. They usually come with large nesting boxes, durable roosting bars, ample ventilation, and predator-proof locks. Thus, the essentials are covered.
Many designs and sizes are available. A model will likely fit your demands and space, whether you want a modest coop for a few hens or a sophisticated one that matches your landscape.
Mobile prefab co-ops exist. Chicken tractors—portable coops—have wheels for easy movement throughout your yard.
That lets your flock eat fresh grass and naturally disseminate their droppings around your lawn.
A prefabricated chicken coop is a practical and easy solution to settle your chickens if you’re short on time, don’t like DIY, or want a rapid and reliable setup.
The Drawbacks to Keep in Mind with Pre-Fab Chicken Coops
Prefabricated chicken coops are convenient but have drawbacks. Your customization options are limited. Other than size and style, you’re limited. A pre-built coop may limit your layout or creativity.
Their cost is usually higher than that of a DIY project. Materials, manufacturing, and delivery increase convenience costs. For those on a budget, starting from scratch may be the better option.
Quality matters too. Some cheaper models are built of weak materials that don’t withstand predators or poor weather. Weak joints and poor-quality wood panels can shorten the lifespan of your coop and put your flock at risk.
Size might mislead, too. Many coops claim greater chicken capacity than they can handle. Crowding can stress birds and lead to health issues. Always check interior measurements, not just the manufacturer’s bird count.
The assembly might be complex. Kits may have confusing instructions, misaligned holes, or missing pieces. A short setup might become a weekend project.
Ultimately, inexpensive chicken coops may not provide adequate protection against predators. If you wish to protect your flock, reinforce thin mesh or loose locks.
While prefab coops can save time and effort, they may require additional investment or adjustments to meet your long-term needs.
Understanding the Cost of Prefabricated Chicken Coops
Prefabricated chicken coops range from under $200 for basic versions to several thousand dollars for huge, feature-packed ones.
Coops vary in price depending on size, materials, build quality, and features.
Beginning chicken farmers can purchase coops for $200–$600, suitable for up to five birds. A simple shelter and a tiny run are typical.
Medium flocks (6–10 chicks) cost between $600 and $1,500. Extra space, nesting boxes, and ventilation are common in these coops.
Larger walk-in coops for flocks of 10 or more start at $1,500 and can cost over $4,000 with bespoke design or premium materials.
Pricing also depends on the material. Omlet and Nestera plastic coops cost more but last longer and require less upkeep.
Wooden coops vary in price depending on wood quality, whereas metal coops vary by gauge and type of metal.
Ultimately, your perfect prefab coop depends on your flock size, budget, and desired ease. Remember that greater features and materials cost more.
| Coop Size | Typical Price Range (USD) | Notes |
| Small (Up to 5 Chickens) | $200-$600 | Basic shelter, often with a small attached run. Price is influenced by the materials used (wood vs. plastic) and the brand. |
| Medium (6-10 Chickens) | $600 – $1,500 | More spacious and may include features like larger runs and multiple nesting boxes. Quality and brand significantly impact price. |
| Large (10+ Chickens/Walk-In) | $1,500 – $4,000+ | Substantial coops with ample space, often featuring walk-in runs, high-quality materials, and additional features. Custom options can exceed this range. |
The prefab chicken coop market offers plenty of options across all budgets, so it’s essential to weigh your flock size, must-have features, and budget to choose the right fit.
What to Expect When Assembling a Prefab Coop?
A prefabricated chicken coop takes less time than a DIY project, but it still requires work. The size and complexity of the assembly may take anywhere from under an hour to most of a day.
Manufacturers say it’ll take an hour or two. User reviews generally indicate that it takes three hours or more, especially for larger coops or first-time assemblers.
The number of components in the package, the clarity of the instructions, whether you need supplementary tools, and your comfort level with simple building chores can all determine how long it takes. You may be disappointed by the coop instructions that are primarily photographs.
For heavier installations, having a second set of hands can speed up the process and make it smoother.
While a prefab coop saves time over building from scratch, it’s still wise to allow for extra time to ensure a smooth installation. Prepare and don’t rush, because the manufacturer’s estimates don’t always match the actual assembly.
What You Can and Can’t Change with Pre-Fab Coops?
Most prefabricated chicken coops are as advertised. Beyond choosing the size, color, and style, there’s little room to customize the design.
If you’re handy, add extra latches for security, stronger wire mesh to keep predators out, or better ventilation to keep things cool and dry.
In harsher areas, painting or sealing the wood might extend the coop’s life.
Some luxury brands are more flexible. Carolina Coops offer bespoke designs and extras, such as automated doors and insulated walls.
Despite those upgrades, you’re still using a pre-built frame. Starting from scratch with a DIY project where you control every detail is different.
While you can customize a prefab coop to fit your flock, convenience comes at the expense of comprehensive customization.
How Do Prefabricated Coops Stack Up in Terms of Build Quality, Durability, and Features?
Prefabricated chicken coops vary in quality. Some inexpensive models may feature weak wood and lightweight hardware that may not withstand prolonged use, especially in harsh weather conditions or when exposed to loud predators.
However, certain brands excel at craftsmanship.
Omlet coops, made of sturdy plastic, are long-lasting and low-maintenance. OverEZ offers robust, and Carolina Coops is noted for its excellent quality and clever design.
Durability is essential too. Some low-end coops only last a few seasons, especially without renovations, but others are more resilient if you add sturdier fasteners or seal exposed wood.
Due to their resistance to rot and mites, plastic coops last.
Most prefab coops have a henhouse, ramp, roosting bars, and nesting boxes (typically accessible from the outside, which is convenient).
Specific models have a short run, while others have pull-out cleaning trays, locking doors, ventilation windows, automated doors, and electrical kits.
Do your research before buying a prefab coop. Read chicken owner reviews on various shopping websites for honest feedback.
Since model and brand quality vary significantly, doing your homework can help you avoid frequent mistakes and choose something that lasts.
Experiences of Chicken Owners
What DIY Chicken Keepers Are Saying Online
Many backyard chicken coop builders are proud of their work. Online forums describe the joy of creating something that matches your environment and flock.
Builders like customizing layout and materials and saving money by using recycled or surplus components.
It’s rewarding, yet many underestimate time, make construction blunders, or experience delays. They still emphasize planning, predator protection, and ventilation.
Experienced keepers recommend DIY. They say it creates a stronger, longer-lasting coop that better fits needs than most prefab solutions.
Online communities offer support, tips, and inspiration for those who are hesitant.
What Chicken Keepers Say About Pre-Fab Coops
Many backyard poultry owners prefer prefabricated coops for their speed and convenience.
They help you settle your flock quickly without a significant DIY endeavor.
However, web forums show some typical issues. User complaints include that prefab coops are smaller than stated and require modifications such as sturdier hardware, improved ventilation, and predator protection. To offer their chickens more space, some build an extra run.
Omlet and OverEZ are praised for their longevity and careful design, while big-box store counterparts are often criticized for their fragility.
If you’re willing to customize it, a prefab coop can work for a small flock or a speedy setup. Forum discussions guide how to optimize your purchase and avoid common mistakes.
How Happy Are Coop Owners—DIY vs. Pre-Fab?
You may be proud of your coop once you’ve built it. Customizing the layout and materials to match their flock and yard is the nicest part for many DIYers.
This is no little project. If it’s their first time using tools, they may be startled by how much time, effort, and money it takes.
Prefab coop satisfaction depends on expectations. If you realize it needs some changes and choose a trusted brand, the speed and convenience may be satisfactory.
However, small sizes, flimsy parts, and missing functions may disappoint you if you expect a flawless setup out of the box.
One worry both parties share? Not letting predators in. DIY coops allow you to use durable materials and creative designs, whereas prefab coops often require reinforcement.
Cleaning matters. Many prefab coops feature pull-out trays for easier maintenance, and DIY walk-in designs make the process even easier.
If you can handle it, DIY offers more control and long-term delight. Prefab is faster and easier, but it may take more work to perfect.
Making the Right Choice: Factors to Consider
Assessing Your Skills, Time, and Budget
Think carefully before building or buying a chicken coop. Enjoy using tools?
Have carpentry skills? Building a coop may be a fun weekend project, but be prepared. It requires time, effort, and occasionally additional money if things don’t go as planned.
If you’re short on time or don’t have the skills to build, consider a prefab coop.
It’s speedier, but you’ll need a reasonable budget if you want anything that lasts and protects your flock. Compare models based on quality, as cheaper ones may cut corners.
Think About Customisation
How detailed are your coop needs? A premade coop with nesting boxes and roosting room may work.
If your flock is vast, your yard is irregularly shaped, or you need special ventilation, a run, or door needs, DIY gives you complete control.
However, some prefab coops may be adjusted after purchase with some elbow grease.
Durability and Maintenance
No matter your path, maintenance counts. If you seal or paint it to withstand the outdoors, a quality DIY coop can last for years.
Cheaper premade coops wear out quickly, but high-quality plastic or solid wood ones last longer with proper maintenance.
Keeping Your Flock Safe
Your main priority should be predator safety. Starting with hidden hardware cloth and durable latches will strengthen your coop.
Users often upgrade wire mesh or add locks to prefab coops for security. Whatever you choose, your chickens will appreciate your efforts to keep them safe.
Choosing the Right Coop for You and Your Flock
Building a chicken coop or purchasing a prefabricated one depends on your specific needs.
If you’re handy and like projects, building from scratch gives you complete control, may save money, and lets you make exactly what your flock needs. However, it takes time, work, and skill.
However, prefab coops are convenient. You can house hens quickly without construction.
However, they may be more expensive, offer less customization, and require additional reinforcement.
Assess your talents, timetable, money, and flexibility. Read reviews, compare brands, and make an informed decision.
Whether building or buying, the idea is to provide your hens with a safe, cozy home where they can thrive for years.
