8.3 KiB
Build easy-to-wash chicken coop from bottle caps
Recycled plastic sheets are ideal for chicken coops due to their ease of cleaning and resistance to parasites like poultry red mites. Here is how ours was built: Download the plans and watch the stages in the accompanying video.
User Location: Houyet, Belgium
Steps
Step 1: Watch that amazing Youtube video first !
In this video, I demonstrate the production stages of a chicken coop made from plastic sheets. Watching the video will provide a comprehensive overview, making the process easier to follow.
Step 2: Download the files provided above
These files contain the henhouse plans in both .PDF and .DXF formats, allowing you to view and edit them using open-source software like LibreCAD. The wooden frame is designed to be covered with panels measuring 39.439.40.4 inches (100x100x1 cm), compatible with the commonly used sheet press.
Step 3: Collect around 120 000 bottle caps
Collecting a substantial number of caps can be challenging. Here is my approach:
I collaborate with an organization that gathers caps from schools, stores, and public places and sorts them by color. I pay for this service to save time.
Seek out similar organizations in your area. Often, these groups collect bottle caps and sell them, using the proceeds to support charitable activities such as providing guide dogs for the blind or wheelchairs for the disabled.
For this project, we required 240 kilograms (approximately 530 pounds) of bottle caps.
Step 4: Shred & wash your bottle caps
Shredding
I use a V4 pro shredder to process the caps four times until the shred meets my size requirements.
Washing and Drying
Washing is more effective post-grinding. I place shredded plastic in durable cotton canvas bags, securing them with reusable zip-ties. These are washed in domestic machines equipped with filtration systems to prevent microplastic release and water recovery systems to recycle water efficiently.
Subsequently, I dry the shredded material in tumble dryers to ensure it is completely dry.
Step 5: Create your sheets using the sheetpress
By following the previously explained method, you can produce approximately 6 to 8 sheets per day (2.5 to 3.5 square feet).
This project requires 24 panels, including 4 yellow ones for the nesting box.
Completion is achievable after 3 to 4 days of dedicated work.
Step 6: Build the wooden structure and the roof
Construction Guide for Wooden Structure
Build the wooden structure according to the provided plans.
Adapt the design to suit your location and materials.
We used Trespa panels, available from excess stock, for the floor and ceiling. Alternatively, consider using plastic panels.
The roof is insulated and covered with corrugated iron sheets.
Plans include a separate storage area accessed from outside the main enclosure.
Step 7: Cut and add your recycled plastic sheets
Wall Cladding for Your Chicken Coop
Exercise caution when cutting panels; ensure the workspace permits the collection of any resulting plastic dust. Pre-drill holes to attach the panels to the wooden structure, and gather any plastic waste during this process.
Step 8: Allow space between your panels !
We did not allow space between the panels, leading to bulging in high heat. To prevent this, leave 0.2 in-0.4 in (0.5 cm-1 cm) between panels. Plan for seasonal temperature variations when constructing your henhouse, as they can affect panel expansion.
Step 9: Create your doors and windows
The doors and windows consist of a steel structure that we painted ourselves. Initially, we used putty to attach the panels to the steel frame, but it proved ineffective. Consequently, we switched to a mechanical fastening solution. We also installed metal mesh on the windows to prevent martens and rats from entering.
Step 10: Now, the nests !
Build your nests by following the plans and adjusting them as needed. Feel free to choose any color you prefer.
Step 11: Add the last elements
If not yet completed, install the interior perch and the automatic door for the chickens (we used an Omlet brand door acquired second-hand). Adjust according to available materials.
Step 12: Time to celebrate !
Host a remarkable gathering with friends. If you construct a similar chicken coop, please share your photos.
Resources
Software
- LibreCAD (for editing DXF plans)
- PDF viewer (for blueprint access)
Hardware & Materials
- V4 Pro shredder (4-stage plastic grinding)
- Domestic washing machine with microplastic filtration
- Tumble dryer (for plastic shreds)
- Cotton canvas bags + reusable zip-ties (washing setup)
- Wooden frame materials, Trespa panels, corrugated iron sheets
Power Tools
- Panel cutter (e.g., circular saw/jigsaw)
- Drill + bits (pre-drilling holes)
- Sander (optional edge smoothing)
- Screwdriver (panel attachment)
Safety Equipment
- Safety goggles (plastic dust protection)
- Dust mask/respirator (inhaled particles)
- Work gloves (optional handling)
Additional Tools
- Omlet automatic chicken door (second-hand)
- Steel structures + paint (door/window frames)
- Screws/nails (mechanical fastening)
- Water recovery system (washing efficiency)
- Excess stock materials (e.g., recycled panels)
References
Articles
- https://eartheasy.com/recycled-plastic-chicken-barn/
- https://eartheasy.com/recycled-plastic-chicken-coop-the-sonoma/
- https://www.thegardencoop.com/blog/chicken-coop-plastic-wrap-winter/
- https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-build-a-chicken-coop/9ba683603be9fa5395fab9014cb61420