1. Proper Ventilation for Fresh Air

Good airflow is critical inside any chicken coop. Chickens produce a surprising amount of moisture through their breath and droppings. Without proper ventilation, ammonia builds up and can lead to respiratory problems, mold, and other health risks.

Your coop should have vents up high on the walls or roof, ideally on opposite sides to allow cross-ventilation. Just make sure the openings are predator-proof, using hardware cloth rather than chicken wire.

2. Sufficient Space Per Hen

Overcrowding can cause stress, feather pecking, and the spread of disease. A good rule of thumb is:

• 3-4 square feet per bird inside the coop
• 8-10 square feet per bird in the outdoor run

At Sunview Builders, we recommend sizing your coop with growth in mind. Chickens are addictive! Once you have a few, you might find yourself adding more to the flock.

3. Easy Access to Nesting Boxes

Healthy, laying hens need a quiet, cozy space to nest. Nesting boxes should be elevated off the ground and placed in a darker, more secluded area of the coop to encourage egg-laying.

Plan for one nesting box per 3-4 hens, each about 12×12 inches. Line the boxes with clean straw or shavings and make sure they’re easy for you to reach when collecting eggs.

4. Comfortable Roosting Bars

Chickens prefer to sleep off the ground on a perch. Roosting bars should be higher than the nesting boxes to avoid hens sleeping in them (and making a mess). Use rounded edges like a 2×4 turned flat side up, giving them a stable surface and helping them keep their feet warm in cooler temps.

Allow about 8-10 inches of roosting space per bird.

5. Predator-Proofing is Non-Negotiable

Raccoons, foxes, coyotes, hawks, and even domestic pets are all threats to your flock. A truly secure coop will have:

• Heavy-duty locks on all doors
• Hardware cloth (not chicken wire) over any openings
• A dig-proof perimeter, like burying hardware cloth 12″ down and bending it outwards

Don’t forget the run! It should be enclosed with a roof or netting to protect from aerial predators.

6. Natural Light and Shade

Chickens rely on sunlight to regulate their laying cycle and overall mood. Large windows or translucent roofing can help bring in natural light without sacrificing security.

That said, too much direct sunlight can cause overheating. Ensure part of the run or coop is shaded, especially in the hot Texas sun.

7. Easy Clean-Up Design

Clean coops are healthy coops. Choose a layout that allows you to get in and out easily for cleaning. A walk-in design makes life simpler.

Some helpful features include:

• Droppings board under roosts for quick daily scraping
• Removable trays or floors
• Wide doors for wheelbarrow access

We also recommend using materials that hold up to moisture and can be easily scrubbed down.

8. Proper Insulation and Weatherproofing

In Texas, coops need to handle extreme heat more than freezing cold, but temperature control matters year-round. Use reflective materials, add shade, and consider adding insulation where necessary. Also, ensure the roof and walls are sealed to prevent leaks.

A well-designed roof with adequate overhang will keep rainwater out of the run and coop entrance.

9. Feed and Water Station Placement

Keep feeders and waterers off the ground to prevent contamination but within easy reach for your birds. Place them in a shaded area of the run or coop to keep water cool and discourage algae growth.

Choose a coop design with space for your stations, and if you plan to use heated waterers in winter, make sure your coop has an outlet or solar solution.

10. Access to Outdoor Space

Hens love to roam, scratch, and dust bathe. The best coops are connected to secure outdoor runs, giving your birds room to express natural behaviors. If you can, allow them supervised free-ranging time. Just make sure your yard is safe and fenced.

Adding dust-bath areas (like a shallow box of sand, ash, and dirt) also helps control mites and keeps hens content.

Why Coop Design Matters to Your Chickens’ Wellbeing

A well-designed coop isn’t just about efficiency. It directly impacts your hens’ physical health, egg production, and stress levels. Chickens thrive when they feel safe, comfortable, and stimulated.

At Sunview Builders, we’ve worked with plenty of backyard chicken keepers across Central Texas who wanted something beyond a big box store coop. Our custom coops offer durability, thoughtful design, and that extra layer of care that your flock deserves.

Bonus Tips for an Even Better Coop:

• Use natural pest deterrents like herbs (mint, lavender, oregano) in nesting boxes.
• Paint the interior a light color to reflect light and brighten the space.
• Add a small fan in hot months to keep air circulating.
• Install motion sensor lights or alarms around your coop for added security.

Remember, your chickens are counting on you to provide a safe and nurturing home. When you invest in the right structure, you’re setting the stage for years of happy clucks, fresh eggs, and peace of mind.

Start Building Smarter with Our 3D Shed Builder

Ready to design a chicken coop that your hens will love and that complements your backyard? Try our free 3D Shed Builder tool. Customize everything from size and color to layout and add-ons, and see your vision come to life in real-time. It’s simple, fun, and tailored to your needs.

Build Your Chicken Coop Now!

Need Help? Get a Quote from Sunview Builders

We’re not just here to build sheds — we build backyard dreams. Whether you’re raising hens, storing tools, or creating a quiet backyard retreat, we can help you make it happen.

Contact us or request a quote here and let’s create something great together.