15 Diy Chicken Run Cheap Ideas
As you start planning your backyard chicken adventure, you’re likely wondering how to create a safe and comfortable space for your flock without breaking the bank. You’ve come to the right place! With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can repurpose everyday items into functional and affordable chicken runs. The options are limitless from repurposing old rabbit hutches to upcycling wooden pallets. But which DIY approach is right for you? Keep exploring to uncover 15 innovative and budget-friendly ideas that’ll help you build the perfect chicken run for your feathered friends.
Repurposed Rabbit Hutch Coop
That old rabbit hutch collecting dust in your backyard can become a cozy coop and run for your chickens with a little creativity and elbow grease.
You can score a great deal on a used rabbit hutch or even find one for free on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. These hutches provide a secure and predator-proof space for your chickens, and they’re often easy to move or relocate as needed.
With some DIY magic, you can add roosts and nesting boxes to create a comfortable home for your flock. Plus, the compact size makes it perfect for small backyards.
Dog Kennel Chicken Run
How much space do you have available for your chickens to roam?
If you’re short on space, a dog kennel can be a great solution for a chicken run. You can easily find dog kennels in various sizes, and they’re often predator-proof and secure.
Simply place the kennel on the ground or on a raised platform, and add some fencing and a gate. You can in addition modify the kennel to add roosts, nesting boxes, and scratching posts.
Plus, dog kennels are usually easy to clean and maintain. With a little creativity, you can turn a dog kennel into a safe and happy home for your chickens.
Just remember to check the size and material of the kennel to ensure it’s suitable for your feathered friends.
Playpen Chicken Run Idea
If you’re looking for a super affordable and easy way to create a chicken run, consider repurposing a playpen. These versatile pens are perfect for small backyards and can be easily moved around. Plus, they’re often inexpensive or even free!
Here’s a breakdown of the benefits:
| Benefit | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Easy to set up | No need for complicated instructions | Free |
| Portable | Move it anywhere in your yard | $0 |
| Affordable | Often inexpensive or free | $0 – $50 |
| Secure | Keeps predators out and chickens in | Priceless |
| Versatile | Can be used as a temporary or permanent run | $0 – $100 |
Just be sure to add some chicken wire and a cover to keep those feathered friends safe and happy!
Converted Shed Chicken Coop
You can convert an old shed into a cozy chicken coop with a little creativity and some elbow grease.
Think about it – a shed already has a solid structure, a roof, and walls, which means you can focus on adding the essentials for your feathered friends.
You’ll need to add ventilation, nesting boxes, and roosts, but that’s about it. Plus, sheds are often easy to move or relocate if needed.
Just make sure to predator-proof the coop and add some chicken wire to keep those curious critters safe and sound.
With a little TLC, that old shed can become a happy home for your backyard flock.
Baby Crib Chicken Pen
Since you’re looking for a creative way to repurpose an old item as a chicken run, consider converting a baby crib into a cozy pen for your feathered friends.
This DIY project is perfect for small backyards or beginners. Simply disassemble the crib, add chicken wire to the sides and top, and attach a hinged door for easy access.
You can in addition add roosts, nesting boxes, and a feeding tray to make it a comfortable home for your chickens. The crib’s compact size makes it easy to move or relocate as needed.
With a little creativity, you can turn an old baby crib into a safe and happy haven for your chickens.
PVC Pipe Chicken Enclosure
Creating a chicken enclosure using PVC pipes is an innovative and cost-effective way to provide a safe and secure space for your feathered friends.
You can easily set up a PVC pipe frame and cover it with chicken wire or netting to keep predators out. Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to move around, making it perfect for small backyards or temporary setups.
- PVC pipes are inexpensive and easy to find at most hardware stores
- You can customize the size and shape of your enclosure to fit your specific needs
- PVC pipes are durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions
- You can add a gate and door for easy access and cleaning
- PVC pipes are a great option for DIY enthusiasts who want a budget-friendly solution
Trampoline Chicken Run DIY
Turn an old trampoline into a fun and functional chicken run with this DIY project. You’ll be surprised at how easily you can repurpose this backyard staple into a safe and secure space for your feathered friends.
Start by disassembling the trampoline and attaching chicken wire or hardware cloth to the frame.
Add a gate, some roosts, and nesting boxes, and you’re good to go! The trampoline’s circular shape provides a natural enclosure, and the springy base makes it easy to move around.
Plus, the raised platform keeps your chickens safe from predators and provides great ventilation.
With a little creativity, you can turn trash into treasure and create a unique chicken run that’s both functional and fun.
Plastic Kiddie Pool Coop
Your kiddie pool, once a hub of splashing fun for the little ones, can now become a cozy coop for your backyard chickens.
It’s a genius way to repurpose an old pool and give your chickens a safe and comfortable space to roam.
- Pools provide a secure and predator-proof space for chickens.
- They can be modified to add chicken wire and ventilation.
- Pools are a great option for small backyards.
- They’re a cost-effective and easy-to-set-up option.
- You can customize the pool to fit your chickens’ needs, adding roosts, nesting boxes, and scratching posts.
Old Swing Set Chicken Run
If you thought that old swing set was destined for the junkyard, think again! You can repurpose it into a fun and functional chicken run. With some creativity and elbow grease, you can breathe new life into that old swing set and provide a safe and secure space for your feathered friends.
Here’s what you can do:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Repurposed frame | Provides a sturdy structure for your chicken run |
| Existing roof | Offers shade and protection from the elements |
| Add chicken wire | Keeps predators out and chickens in |
Just remember to add some chicken wire, a gate, and some roosts, and you’re good to go! Your chickens will love their new playground, and you’ll love the nostalgia of giving new life to an old favorite.
DIY Chicken Wire Enclosure
Building a DIY chicken wire enclosure is a fantastic way to give your chickens the freedom to roam while keeping them safe from predators.
You can create a secure and affordable enclosure using chicken wire, a few tools, and some creativity.
Chicken wire is an inexpensive material that can be used to create a large enclosure.
- You can customize the size and shape of the enclosure to fit your backyard.
- Chicken wire is easy to install and can be attached to existing structures like fences or trees.
- The enclosure can be moved or relocated as needed.
- You can add a roof or covering to protect your chickens from the elements.
Upcycled Pallet Chicken Coop
About six pallets can be converted into a spacious chicken coop, providing ample room for your flock to roost and nest.
You’ll need some basic tools and a bit of creativity, but the end result is well worth it.
Start by disassembling the pallets and using the wooden planks to build the coop’s frame.
Add some chicken wire for ventilation and protection, and don’t forget to include roosting bars and nesting boxes for your girls.
With some TLC, you’ll have a cozy and functional coop that your chickens will love.
Plus, you’ll be reducing waste and saving money on building materials – it’s a win-win!
Chicken Wire Fencing Idea
Considering the security and freedom of your feathered friends, a well-designed chicken wire fencing idea is essential for a safe and happy flock.
You want to ensure your chickens have enough space to roam and exercise while keeping predators out.
- Use a sturdy frame to support the wire, like PVC pipes or wooden stakes.
- Bury the wire 12-18 inches underground to prevent digging predators.
- Use chicken wire with small mesh sizes (around 1 inch) to keep out snakes and other small predators.
- Add a top cover to prevent flying predators, like hawks and owls.
- Consider adding an electric fence to deter larger predators, like coyotes and foxes.
Cardboard Box Chicken Coop
Upcycling a cardboard box into a chicken coop might sound crazy, but it’s a genius way to reuse and recycle while giving your chickens a cozy home.
You can cut out windows and doors, add some ventilation, and line it with bedding material like straw or hay. Add some roosting bars and a nesting box, and you’ve got a functional coop.
Just make sure it’s predator-proof and protected from the elements. You can even decorate it with some fun paint or stickers to make it a unique addition to your backyard.
Who knew cardboard could be so chic?
Wooden Pallet Chicken Run
Frequently, wooden pallets are discarded or repurposed, but they can be converted into a fantastic chicken run with a little creativity.
You can use them to create a sturdy frame, add some chicken wire, and voila! You’ve got a secure and predator-proof space for your feathered friends.
- They’re readily available and often free or low-cost
- Pallets are sturdy and can withstand the elements
- They can be easily modified to fit your specific needs
- You can add a roof or tarp to provide shade and protection from the weather
- Wooden pallets can be repurposed into a variety of designs to suit your backyard and style
Hoop House Chicken Coop
Two hoop houses can be connected to create a spacious chicken coop with a large run in between.
You’ll get a ton of space for your girls to roam around, and the hoop houses will provide excellent protection from the elements. Plus, it’s a great way to reuse and recycle materials.
You can customize the interior with roosts, nesting boxes, and feeders to create a comfy home for your flock. And the best part? It’s super easy to set up and move around if needed.
Just make sure to secure the hoop houses to the ground to prevent them from toppling over in the wind. With a little creativity, you’ll have a fabulous hoop house chicken coop that’ll make your neighbors jealous!
Conclusion
You’ve turned your backyard into a clucking paradise without draining your wallet. With a little creativity and some elbow grease, you’ve created a safe and happy home for your feathered friends. Whether you repurposed an old structure or got crafty with cardboard boxes, you’ve proven that DIY chicken runs can be both functional and fabulous. Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy the egg-cellent benefits of your hard work!