Today as you will soon discover there are many different types of chicken coops for sale. But before you think about purchase one which can be quite a large investment there are certain things that you will need to consider beforehand. In this article we offer some tips with regard to what to look for when you are buying a chicken coop that not only protects the hens but provides them with plenty of space.
Tip 1 - The coop should be of the most solid construction possible as you want to ensure that it lasts for many years to come. The best types of coops to buy are those constructed from pressure treated and tanalised wood. These one's require very little maintenance and last for as long as 20 years.
But they are expensive and for many people who don't have a lot of money to spend just going for a coop that is treated normally will suffice. However, even with these types make sure that no toxic materials have been used for treating the wood and also factor in the cost of having to retreat the coop each year to ensure that it lasts.
Tip 2 - You must also make sure that the coop you purchase is one that is going to provide good protection to your hens from the weather. You need one that has roof which overhangs the main part of the coop so that rainwater is easily allowed to flow off it. The type of roof which is best is the apex style one although flat roofs which come with a slight slope to the front are also suitable.
It is important that along with the shape of the roof helping to prevent water collecting the material covering it should prevent water from being able to get into the coop and insulate it as well. Most of the chicken coops for sale today have roofs fitted with good quality roofing felt like Onduline. As well as protecting the birds from inclement weather it also prevents mites from taking up residence in the coop.