how big of a chicken coop for 20 chickens

How Big Should a Chicken Coop Be for 20 Chickens? The Complete Guide

Raising chickens is an extremely rewarding experience. Chickens in the backyard are great for many reasons, from getting fresh eggs to having cute feathered pets. However, providing proper housing for your flock is essential. If you want to keep your 20 chickens healthy and happy, make sure the coop has enough space and amenities. We will tell you everything you need to know to build the best chicken coop for 20 chickens in this full guide.

Coop Size Recommendations

When housing 20 chickens, a good rule of thumb is to allow at least 4 square feet of coop floor space per bird. This means your coop should have a minimum of 80 square feet of interior floor space for 20 chickens. However, more is always better if you have room in your yard and budget.

Along with interior floor space, your 20 chickens need room to roam outdoors. Plan to provide at least 8-10 square feet per bird in an attached chicken run. A run of 160-200 square feet allows your flock ample space to scratch, dust bathe, and forage.

Key Components for 20 Chickens

Your coop needs to have enough space, as well as roosting bars and nesting boxes. Below are the recommended quantities:

• Roosting Bars: Each chicken needs 6-10 inches of roosting bar space. For 20 chickens, include 10-12 linear feet of roosting bars at varied heights.

• Nesting Boxes: Plan for one box per 4-5 hens. So for 20 chickens, install at least 4-5 nesting boxes. Standard size is 12”W x 12”D x 18”H.

• Feeders & Waterers: Include ample feeder and waterer space to prevent competition. Plan for one feeder and waterer per 8-10 chickens.

Climate Considerations

The climate you live in impacts some design factors like ventilation, insulation, and run coverage. Here are some region-specific considerations:

• Cold Climates: Prioritize insulation in walls, ceiling, windows, and doors. Prevent drafts while still allowing ventilation.

• Hot Climates: Maximize ventilation via windows, doors, and vents. Use shade cloths on run. Include a cooling fan inside coop.

• Rainy Climates: Cover outdoor run to keep chickens dry and allow access during downpours. Improve drainage around the coop.

Coop Floor Plans

When designing your 20-chicken coop, consider layouts that make cleaning and collecting eggs convenient. Here are some practical floor plan options:

• Walk-in Coops: A walk-in coop with doors large enough for you to enter makes caring for an expanded flock much easier. Centralized nest boxes allow for efficient egg gathering.

• A-Frame Style: An A-frame coop is economical to build while still offering plenty of interior space. Nest boxes and roosts built along the walls maximize open floor area.

• Lean-to Addition: Adding a lean-to extension off an existing shed or barn allows you to save money. The main coop houses nest boxes, while the addition provides extra living and roosting space.

Construction Materials

Use weather-resistant, easy-to-clean materials when building your chicken coop:

• Framing: Wood, composite lumber, or metal framing last for years. Pressure treated lumber handles moisture well.

• Walls: Pine boards, plywood, galvanized metal panels, and hardware cloth all make secure walls.

• Roof: Choose galvanized steel, aluminum, or composite shingles in your climate. Overhangs keep interiors dry.

• Floor: Dirt floors allow chickens to dust bathe. For a cleaner option, use concrete, deep litter bedding, or vinyl flooring over plywood.

• Doors: Install sturdy doors with predator-proof latches leading to interior coop and outdoor run.

Key Amenities

Beyond basic housing, extra amenities keep chickens engaged and make care easier:

• Perches and Ladders: Varying roost heights and ladders mimic how chickens perch in nature, encouraging natural behaviors.

• Windows: Windows allow sunlight and ventilation. Use hardware cloth over windows to deter predators.

• Dust Bath Area: Provide a dedicated space filled with loose substrate for chickens to dust bathe in.

• Automatic Door: Automated doors gently open and close with daylight, keeping chickens safe at night.

• Storage: Incorporate storage for feed, bedding, tools, and supplies inside the coop.

Safety Considerations

Since chickens are vulnerable to predators, integrate preventative measures:

• Hardware Cloth: Small openings in 1⁄2” hardware cloth blocks predators but allows ventilation. Use it on windows, vents, and run sides.

• Coyote Rollers: Install roller bars along the top edge of fence lines to prevent climbing predators.

• Motion Lights: Position motion-activated lights outside the coop to scare nocturnal prowlers.

• Secure Door Locks: Use sturdy latches that lock from the outside on all coop and run access doors.

• Rodent Barriers: Use 1⁄4” metal mesh around the base of the coop to keep rodents from burrowing in.

With chicken coops, bigger is usually better when possible. By following these guidelines for an adequately sized coop with 20 chickens in mind, you can ensure your flock stays healthy and content for years to come. Pay special attention to including ample living space, roosting and nesting areas, climate customizations, high-quality materials, and protective measures. With a well-designed coop suited to a flock of 20, you’ll love watching your chickens happily cluck along for years of enjoyable backyard farming! Let us know if you have any other questions. We’re always happy to help fellow chicken enthusiasts.