Concrete chicken coops are a popular choice for chicken owners because they are durable, easy to clean, and low-maintenance.
Concrete is a strong material that can withstand the elements, making it a good choice for coops in areas with extreme weather conditions.
It is also non-porous, which makes it easy to clean and disinfect. Concrete coops are less likely to attract pests than wooden coops, making them a good option for keeping chickens healthy.
They can be built to any size or shape, providing versatility for chicken owners. However, concrete coops can be more expensive and more difficult to construct than other types.
They can also be cold in winter, so insulation is important in colder climates.
Key Considerations for Concrete Chicken Coops
If you're considering a concrete chicken coop, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Choosing the Right Concrete Mix
Use a mix designed for outdoor use that is durable and weather resistant. The concrete should have the proper ratio of cement, sand, gravel and water to create a strong and long-lasting coop.
Proper Installation
Pour the concrete on a level, compacted surface and slope the floor slightly towards the door for drainage. Reinforce with wire mesh to prevent cracking. Allow proper curing time of at least 28 days before use.
Preventing Cracks
Cracks can compromise the coop and allow entry points for pests. Proper concrete mix, installation, curing and reinforcement will help prevent cracking.
Waterproofing
Since concrete is porous, waterproofing is important to prevent moisture issues. Sealers, coatings or additives can waterproof concrete.
Insulation
Insulate concrete coops in cold climates to prevent frost damage and keep chickens warm. Rigid foam insulation panels work well on concrete walls.
Routine Maintenance
Regularly inspect concrete for cracks, seal any that appear, and reapply waterproofing as needed. This will extend the coop's life.
Benefits of Concrete Chicken Coops
There are many advantages to using concrete:
Durability - Stands up to weather and use without rotting or warping. Can last for decades.
Strength - Concrete is sturdy and secure, keeping predators out. Thick walls deter digging pests.
Easy to Clean - Smooth nonporous surface is easy to scrub and disinfect. Good for biosecurity.
Customizable - Can be built to any shape and size to suit your needs.
Pest Resistant - Impervious surface doesn't harbor parasites or rodents like wood can.
Fire Resistant - Concrete won't burn or enable flames to spread quickly.
Potential Drawbacks of Concrete Coops
Cost - Concrete is one of the more expensive coop building materials. Forms and reinforcement add to costs.
Weight - Heavy concrete structures usually need a poured foundation or slab to support them. Difficult to move.
Cold - Can get chilly in winter without adequate insulation.
Cracking - Improper concrete curing or preparation can lead to cracks over time.
Appearance - Some find concrete coops to be unattractive. Can paint or stucco exterior.
Concrete Thickness and Strength
Most concrete chicken coops have walls between 4-6 inches thick. The thickness depends on the size of the coop and climate. Heavier reinforcing is needed for thicker concrete. Aim for at least a 3000 PSI concrete mix for durability.
Alternatives to Solid Concrete
While poured concrete is common, here are some other options:
Concrete block construction - Allows insulation in cavities
ICFs (insulated concrete forms) - Foam forms remain as insulation
Fibrecrete - Uses fibre reinforcement instead of wire mesh
Ferrock - More sustainable concrete alternative
Pressed earth - Uses compacted earth as walls
Building a Concrete Chicken Coop
Constructing a concrete coop takes some DIY experience but can be very rewarding. Here are the basic steps:
Plan and Design
Consider how many chickens you need to house and amenities like nesting boxes, roosts, feeders, and doors needed. Draw up plans for the layout and dimensions.
Construct Forms
Build wooden forms using 2x4s or plywood to hold the concrete walls. Forms need to be sturdy and watertight.
Add Reinforcement
Line forms with wire mesh or rebar grids to reinforce the concrete and prevent cracking once cured.
Pour the Concrete
Mix concrete per manufacturer instructions and pour into forms. Tamp down to eliminate air bubbles. Allow to cure.
Insulate and Waterproof
Once cured, install insulation on exterior walls. Apply waterproof sealers or coatings.
Build Features
Add doors, windows, ventilation, roosts and nest boxes as desired.
Cleanup and Landscaping
Remove forms once concrete has hardened sufficiently. Backfill around the coop and landscape the area.
With some carpentry skills and concrete know-how, you can build your own concrete coop tailored to your space and flock. Or consider hiring a contractor to make the process easier.
The Pros and Cons of Concrete Chicken Coops
Let's summarize the key pros and cons of using concrete:
Pros
- Extremely durable material lasts decades
- Easy to clean and disinfect
- Resists pests, fire, and rot
- Strong and protective structure
- Customizable to any design
- Stays cooler in summer
Cons
- More expensive to build than wood
- Very heavy and permanent
- Can develop cracks over time
- Provides no insulation value
- Considered by some to be unattractive
Overall, concrete is one of the most durable and maintenance-free materials for chicken coops. The pros typically outweigh the cons for most flock owners. It creates a secure fortress for chickens that will last a lifetime.
Environmental Impact of Concrete Chicken Coops
While concrete coops are extremely durable, some people worry about the potential environmental impact of concrete construction. Here are a few factors to consider:
Cement production - Making cement does release significant CO2 emissions initially. However, concrete coops lock up carbon long-term and avoid repeat construction.
Concrete alternatives - More eco-friendly options like Ferrock exist but may be less durable.
Energy efficiency - Insulating the coop allows chickens to share body heat, reducing energy for heating.
Sourcing materials - Using locally sourced concrete and aggregates reduces transportation emissions.
Lifespan - Long-lasting concrete coops avoid the carbon costs of rebuilding coops frequently.
Recyclability - Concrete can be crushed and recycled at end of life.
With careful design and material choices, concrete coops can be an environmentally sustainable option for many flock owners.
Concrete Chicken Coops - The Best Option?
For most chicken keepers, the advantages of a durable, secure concrete coop that will last for decades outweigh any downsides. However, concrete may not be the optimal choice in all situations.
Cold climates may require a coop with more insulation. Owners wanting a portable or temporary coop would be better served by a wooden hutch-style coop.
Those seeking a more decorative coop can opt for materials like brick, stone or cob. And budget-minded flock owners may find the cost of a poured concrete coop too high initially.
But for permanent coops in any climate, concrete is a top choice that will keep chickens safe from the elements and predators for generations.
With good construction and maintenance, a concrete chicken coop is an investment that pays dividends in security and longevity. Any drawbacks for this material can be addressed through thoughtful design and build techniques.
So while alternatives exist, concrete often provides the ideal balance of durability, pest resistance, strength, and ease of care that chicken keepers need. For most flocks, a well-built concrete coop is the clear solution for safe and happy chickens that will last a lifetime.
Preventing Cracks and Concrete Alternatives
When building a concrete chicken coop, it's important to take steps to prevent cracks from forming. Proper installation and curing of the concrete is key to avoiding cracks that can compromise the structure.
Be sure to reinforce the concrete properly and allow adequate time for it to cure before use.
Conclusion
For chicken owners seeking a coop that will last a lifetime, concrete is one of the most durable and resilient options to consider.
Concrete's hardness, strength, and pest-resistance make it ideal for keeping chickens safe and protected. Though concrete is more expensive and difficult to build compared to wood, a properly constructed concrete coop will far outlast all other materials.
With adequate insulation, weatherproofing, and maintenance, a concrete coop provides chickens an impenetrable fortress to thrive in year after year.
Though some alternatives like block construction or Ferrock exist, poured concrete reigns supreme in terms of longevity.
By taking care in design, assembly, and finishing, chicken keepers can enjoy all the benefits of a concrete coop for generations to come.
Overall, the pros of strength, safety, and longevity far outweigh any drawbacks for concrete chicken coops.
With vigilant attention to proper installation and curing, owners can avoid issues like cracking that may compromise the structure.
For those seeking the ultimate in durability and protection for their flock, a concrete coop is an investment that will pay dividends for decades to come.
Their chickens will be housed safely in comfort no matter the weather or predators outside.