If you’re like most homeowners, you probably have a backyard swing set that your kids no longer use. Instead of letting that swingset gather dust in the backyard, why not convert it into a duck house or chicken coop? It’s a fun project that the whole family can help with and it doesn’t require any specialized skills or tools. Here are some tips on how to do it.
From Old Swing Set to a Duck Coop
When my husband and I bought our house, it came with a swing set in the backyard. Placed near a steep cliff where a child could fall and hurt themselves, we considered tearing it down. Then, four ducks came into our lives, and I had the brilliant idea to re-purpose the strong wood structure of the swing set into a duck coop. By attaching chicken wire to the bottom and sides of the swing set, we created a safe and spacious area for our ducks to live. We also added a small door on one side so that they could come and go as they please. The ducks are very happy with their new home, and we’re happy that we were able to find a use for the swing set.
Read More: Why Eggs are Different Colours In Chicken
How to Prepare the Swing Set and Area for Construction?
1). Start by clearing the area around the swing set. You’ll need to be able to move around easily and have a flat surface to work on.
2). If the swing set is made of metal, you’ll need to sand down any sharp edges to prevent injuries.
3). Use a tape measure to determine the dimensions of the swing set. You’ll need this information when you’re buying chicken wire or other materials.
4). Decide how you want the duck house to be arranged. Will it be one large space or divided into smaller sections? Do you want a door on one side or two?
5). Draw a sketch of your plan to help you visualize the finished product.
What Materials Will You Need?
- Chicken wire or another type of wire mesh
- T-posts or other types of support posts
- Wire cutters
- Hammer or screw gun
- Screws or nails
- Roofing material
- Door
Optional: siding or another type of exterior finish.
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Add the Concrete Floor
(Optional)
1). If you want to add a concrete floor, start by excavating the area inside the duck house.
2). Mix the concrete and pour it into the excavation. Use a trowel to level off the surface.
3). Allow the concrete to cure for at least 24 hours before continuing.
4). Measure and cut the chicken wire to fit the floor.
5). Nail or screw the chicken wire to the floor, making sure that it’s secure.
6). Cover the chicken wire with straw or another type of bedding material.
7). Place a water dish and food dish inside the duck house.
Finish Building the Duck House
Predator-Proof the Base
1). To keep predators out, you’ll need to bury the chicken wire at least 6 inches underground.
2). Use a shovel to dig a trench around the perimeter of the duck house.
3). Cut the chicken wire to fit the trench and bend it into an L-shape.
4). Nail or screw the chicken wire to the inside of the trench, making sure that it’s secure.
5). Fill in the trench with dirt and pack it down firmly.
6). Place a wire mesh over the top of the duck house. This will keep predators from getting in through the roof.
7). Nail or screw the wire mesh to the frame of the duck house.
8). Cover the wire mesh with straw or another type of bedding material.
9). Place a water dish and food dish inside the duck house.
Read More: How To Grow Pekin Ducks
Build the Duck House
When I started my duck house project, I knew that the most important part would be the actual house itself. This would be where the ducks could get shelter from bad weather and predators; where they would lay their eggs; and where they would sleep at night. I wanted to make sure that the house was big enough for the ducks to move around comfortably, but not so big that it would be difficult to keep clean. I also made sure to include plenty of ventilation so that the ducks would have fresh air to breathe. In the end, I am extremely satisfied with the duck house that I built, and I know that the ducks will be comfortable and safe in it for many years to come.
