Pick a spot in your yard with good drainage, partial shade, and easy access for cleaning.
2. Lay the Foundation ๐งฑ
Arrange large tires in a circle or rectangle to form the base. Fill the tire cavities with gravel, sand, or soil for stability.
3. Build the Walls ๐ก
Stack tires on top of each other, securing them with bolts or rope. Leave gaps for ventilation and doors. Add wooden frames where you want to install windows or access panels.
4. Add the Roof โ๏ธ๐ง
Use recycled corrugated metal, wood planks, or plastic sheets. Make sure the roof has a slope so rainwater drains away.
5. Install Wire Mesh ๐ชข
Cover openings with chicken wire or welded mesh to keep predators out while allowing airflow.
6. Create Nesting & Roosting Areas ๐ฅ
Inside, place wooden boxes, old buckets, or small crates filled with straw for egg laying. Add perches for roosting made from branches or reclaimed wood.
7. Finishing Touches โจ
Paint the tires with non-toxic, eco-friendly paint to protect them from the sun and rain. Add a small door with a latch for collecting eggs and cleaning.
๐ฅ Benefits for Your Chickens
Safety: The sturdy tire walls keep out predators like foxes, raccoons, and stray dogs.
Comfort: Tires provide insulation, keeping chickens cozy year-round.
Playful space: Chickens love exploring and pecking around different textures.
๐ Eco-Friendly Advantages
Reduces waste by reusing discarded tires
Lowers construction costs compared to buying a pre-made coop
Encourages sustainable homesteading practices
Gives your backyard a creative, rustic look
๐ก Extra Tips
Place the coop on slightly elevated ground to avoid flooding.
Collect rainwater from the slanted roof for an eco-friendly water source. ๐ง
Add a solar-powered light for egg collection at dusk. ๐๐
Plant herbs like mint or lavender nearby โ they repel pests and make the coop smell fresh ๐ฟ.
โ Conclusion
An eco-friendly tire chicken coop is more than just a sustainable DIY project โ itโs a smart, creative way to give your flock a safe, cozy home while helping the planet. With a bit of effort and imagination, old tires can be transformed into a durable, cost-efficient coop that keeps your hens happy and productive.
So, before you throw away those old tires, think again: ๐โก๏ธ๐ a new life awaits them in your backyard!