Transforming a Metal Shed into a Chicken Coop: A Comprehensive Guide

Converting a metal shed into a chicken coop can be an economical and practical way to provide a comfortable, secure environment for your backyard chickens. I was looking for an easy way to add a larger coop for my chickens. I currently have two coops I purchased from Amazon and Tractor Supply. They each have slide out trays and were great starter coops, but as the chickens have gotten bigger I needed more space — and the coops were needing cleaned more and more often. I looked at wood sheds but the cost was prohibitive. I was able to find a metal shed for just $250 that was 8' by 6' which worked out to about 4 square feet per chicken for my flock.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

1. **Cost-Effective**: Repurposing a metal shed is often cheaper than buying a pre-made chicken coop.
2. **Durability**: Metal sheds are sturdy and can withstand extreme weather conditions. I am a little nervous about the wind. I’ve gotten some bars that I screwed into the ground with my drill and attached bungee cords in each corner.
3. **Customization**: I could modify the space according to the specific needs of my flock. Right now I just have the dirt floor with wood shavings scattered about. I’ve added a window, roosting bars and some lights. Being too far from our house…