There are two broad categories to consider if you decide you want a new home for your flock: custom-coops and prefab coops. Both have their good and bad points, so you should think long and hard before settling on one or the other. At Habit, we’re here to help you choose the right home for your chickens.
Custom Built Chicken Coops: The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly
Meanwhile, custom-built Chicken coop have the benefit of being tailor-made for your setup. You get to decide the size, the shape, and the unique features that will best suit your hens. You can build a coop that is perfectly suited to your yard, and your chickens will love you for it.
However, the downside of getting a custom coop is that it can come be more price and take a great deal of the time. You may have to pay someone to build it for you or do a lot of extra work in making it yourself. If you're not a natural builder type, the coop may be sub-par, not weather-proof enough, not strong against the elements of nature unlike one that you simply buy off the shelf. [See Chicken Nipples below]
The Advantages of Buying Pre-Made Chicken Coops:
On the other side of the coin, pre-built chicken coop are ready to go as soon as they are delivered. Typically more affordable than custom-built coops, they also come in a variety of sizes and designs. This may help you cut down on time and effort.
Being pre-made, however, coops may lack some of the things you want for your chickens. You will need to modify certain aspects of the design or size to suit the needs of your flock. Some pre-made coops may not be as strong as a coop you would build yourself.
Things to Think About:
Second, consider your budget, time, and skills when choosing between custom and pre-made chicken coop. This option may be the best one for you if you are able to construct a custom coop that meets your every need. But if you want something less pricey and less challenging, a ready-made coop could be the way to go.
A Treat for Your Chickens:
Regardless of how you decide to go, you can always turn your chicken coop into a home. You can paint it your favourite colours, add decorations or signs, and plant flowers or herbs around it; make a nice area for your chickens.