If you’re considering raising chickens, you need a chicken coop. Not only will it provide your feathered friends with a safe and secure place to live, but it will also protect them from predators and inclement weather.
A chicken coop also makes it easier to keep your hens healthy and happy by giving them a dedicated space for nesting, roosting, and laying eggs.
A Brief Overview of Where to Buy Chicken Coops
The good news is that there are many options when it comes to buying chicken coops. You can find them at local farm and garden stores, online retailers, or even build your own using DIY plans.
If you’re looking for something more specialized or custom-made, there are also builders who can create a unique coop tailored to your specific needs. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so let’s take a closer look at each one so you can make an informed decision on where to buy your chicken coop.
Local Farm and Garden Stores
One of the best places to find a chicken coop is at your local farm and garden store. These stores often carry a variety of coop styles and sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your flock. Plus, you’ll be supporting a local business!
Pros and Cons of Buying from Local Stores
The main advantage of buying from a local store is that you can see the coop in person before making a purchase. This allows you to ensure that the coop is well-built and suitable for your needs. Additionally, if you have any questions or concerns about the coop, you can speak directly with a knowledgeable salesperson.
However, one potential downside to buying from a local store is that their selection may be limited compared to online retailers or custom builders. You may also find that prices at local stores are higher than what you can find online.
Popular Stores to Check Out
If you’re looking for a chicken coop at a local store, there are several popular options to consider:
- Tractor Supply Co.: tractor supply co. carries a variety of pre-made coops as well as diy plans and materials if you prefer to build your own.
- The Home Depot: while not typically thought of as a farm supply store, the home depot carries several different styles of chicken coops in their outdoor living section.
- Petco: petco offers several affordable options for small chicken coops suitable for backyard flocks, including some with built-in runs.
- Lowe’s: like the home depot, lowe’s carries an array of outdoor living products, including chicken coops from various manufacturers.
Of course, depending on where you live, there may be other local farm and garden stores worth checking out as well. Do a quick search online or ask around in local Facebook groups to see if there are any other options in your area.
Online Retailers
Shopping online for a chicken coop offers a myriad of benefits, including convenience and cost savings. When you shop online, you can browse through a wide selection of coops from the comfort of your home, without worrying about store hours or location. Online retailers also often offer lower prices than brick-and-mortar stores because they don’t have to cover costs like rent and utilities.
The Advantages of Shopping Online for Chicken Coops
One advantage of shopping online for chicken coops is that you can find an extensive variety of options. Many online retailers specialize in poultry supplies and offer a large selection of different coop styles and sizes to choose from.
Additionally, many websites allow shoppers to filter their searches by price range, size, and other criteria, making it easier to find exactly what you’re looking for. Another benefit is that shopping online gives you access to reviews from other buyers.
This can be especially helpful when trying to decide between different models or brands. Reading reviews can give you valuable insight into the quality and durability of a particular coop before making your purchase.
Top Online Retailers for Chicken Coops
If you’re in the market for a chicken coop and want to shop online, here are some top-rated retailers worth checking out:
- Amazon: This e-commerce giant offers an enormous selection of chicken coops at competitive prices. Plus, with Amazon Prime’s two-day shipping option, your new coop could arrive at your doorstep in no time.
- Tractor Supply: Tractor Supply is one of the largest farm supply stores in the country, offering everything from animal feed to equipment. They also have an extensive collection of chicken coops available on their website.
- Wayfair: Best known for their home decor and furnishings, Wayfair also has an impressive selection of chicken coops. They offer a variety of styles and sizes, from small portable coops to large walk-in models.
- Chicken Saloon: This online retailer specializes in chicken coops and offers a wide range of options, from simple starter coops to more elaborate designs. They also have a helpful “coop configurator” tool that allows you to customize your coop to fit your specific needs.
No matter which online retailer you choose, be sure to read reviews and compare prices before making your purchase. With so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect coop for your feathered friends!
The Benefits of Building Your Own Chicken Coop
While buying a pre-made chicken coop may be more convenient, building your own coop can have some significant advantages. Firstly, building your own coop allows you to customize it to meet the specific needs of your flock. You can include features such as nesting boxes, roosting bars, and ventilation systems that will keep your chickens healthy and happy.
In addition to customization, building your own chicken coop is often less expensive than buying a pre-made one. By purchasing materials and using DIY plans, you can save quite a bit of money in comparison to purchasing a commercial chicken coop.
Another advantage of building your own chicken coop is the satisfaction that comes with it. Constructing something from scratch gives a sense of accomplishment and pride in creating something functional.
Where to Find DIY Chicken Coop Plans
If you decide to build your own chicken coop, finding the right plans is crucial for success. Luckily there are several resources available online that offer free or low-cost DIY plans for chicken coops. Websites like Backyard Chickens and The Spruce offer numerous designs complete with detailed instructions on how to build them.
YouTube channels such as The Garden Coop also provide step-by-step tutorials on constructing various types of coops. If you prefer physical copies of plans, consider visiting your local library or bookstore for books on backyard farming and raising chickens; they’re likely going to have plenty of do-it-yourself guides with blueprints included
Used Coops
Advantages of buying used
One option for buying a chicken coop is to purchase a used one. While it may not be as shiny and new as a brand-new coop, there are several advantages to buying a used coop. For one, you may be able to get it for a cheaper price than a new one.
Additionally, you can often find coops that are already assembled, saving you time and effort in the building process. Purchasing a used coop can also be better for the environment by keeping materials out of landfills.
Where to look for used chicken coops
There are several places where you can look for used chicken coops. One option is to check classified ads in your local newspaper or online marketplace such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.
Another option is to ask around at local farms or homesteads if they have any old coops they are looking to sell or get rid of. If all else fails, there are also websites dedicated specifically to selling used agricultural equipment such as TractorHouse and Farmers Equipment Co., where you may be able to find gently-used chicken coops at a discounted price.
Custom Coop Builders
For those seeking a fully personalized and unique chicken coop, the best option is to have one custom built. Custom coops offer a range of benefits including the ability to design a coop that fits your specific needs and desires. A custom-built coop can be tailored to fit your backyard’s dimensions, accommodate the number of chickens you have or plan to get, meet aesthetic preferences and be built with materials that can withstand your local weather.
Benefits of having a custom coop built
Besides the personalization aspect, custom coops also tend to be more durable than prefabricated models sold in stores or online. When you have a coop built from scratch, you know that all materials are new and free from wear-and-tear or defects.
Choosing quality materials for both the interior and exterior ensures that your chickens will be protected from outside elements while simultaneously keeping predators out. Another advantage of choosing this route is being able to customize every little detail such as adding windows for ventilation, nesting boxes in specific locations or implementing an automatic door for their security.
How to find a reputable builder
Finding someone who has experience building custom chicken coops may take some research but it’s not impossible. Start by asking for referrals from friends who own coops or within online communities dedicated to raising backyard chickens.
You can also do an online search for “custom chicken coops” along with your city name, this should reveal potential builders in your local area. Keep in mind that reputable builders will have testimonials from previous clients on their website so take time to read them carefully.
Be sure to ask questions about their process such as how long it takes typically takes them per build and what types of materials they recommend using based on where you live. It’s essential to get a clear quote for the entire project, so there are no surprises when it comes time for payment.
Once you’ve researched and narrowed down your list of builders, schedule a consultation with them. This is a great way to discuss your specific needs and vision while getting their expert opinion on what will work best
Conclusion
There are several options available when it comes to purchasing a chicken coop. Local farm and garden stores are great if you prefer to see the coop in person before making a purchase. Online retailers offer a wider variety of options and price ranges.
DIY plans can save you money and allow for customization, while used coops can provide a more affordable option. If none of these options fit your needs, consider having a custom coop built by a reputable builder.
When choosing the right chicken coop, there are several factors to consider. The size of your flock, available space in your yard, climate conditions in your area, and budget should all be taken into account. It’s important to choose a coop that is large enough for your birds to comfortably move around and roost in at night.
Consider the materials used in construction – wood is popular but may require more maintenance than plastic or metal options. Overall, finding the perfect chicken coop can take time and research but it’s worth it for happy and healthy chickens!
Remember to prioritize safety, functionality, and comfort for both you and your feathered friends when making your decision. Happy shopping!
