As a nation of DIY enthusiasts, Australians love nothing more than getting creative with old cars and transforming them into unique and functional projects. In this article, we’ll take you through the process of turning a VT Commodore into a chicken coop with heated roosting pads, providing you with a step-by-step guide and showcasing the end result.
The Brief
Our client approached us with a clear vision – to convert a 1994 VT Commodore into a spacious chicken coop that could accommodate a flock of 12 chickens. Not only did they want the coop to be aesthetically pleasing, but also functional and safe for the chickens. The twist? They wanted to incorporate heated roosting pads to keep the chickens warm and cozy on chilly nights.
Design and Planning
Before we could begin the conversion process, we needed to carefully plan and design the coop. We took into account the requirements of a standard chicken coop, including adequate ventilation, nesting boxes, and roosting bars. The heated roosting pads would also need to be safely integrated into the design.
We decided to create a coop that would be split into two sections: a main nesting area and a smaller feeding area. The nesting area would feature a series of 8 nesting boxes, each equipped with a perch and a sliding door for easy egg collection. The feeding area would be designed for easy access and would feature a feeding trough and a water dispenser.
Removing the Car Body
Once the design was finalized, we began the process of removing the car body from the VT Commodore’s chassis. This involved careful dismantling of the body panels, including the roof, doors, and trunk lid. We made sure to record our progress and take precise measurements to avoid any damage to the chassis or other components.
Preparing the Chassis
With the car body removed, we turned our attention to the chassis. We needed to clean and prepare it for the new coop design. This involved sanding the metal to prevent any rust or debris from interfering with the construction process.
Constructing the Nesting Area
The nesting area was the first section of the coop to be built. We designed it to feature 8 nesting boxes, each with a sliding door for easy egg collection. The boxes were constructed from 12mm plywood and were finished with a water-resistant coating to protect against moisture.
Constructing the Feeding Area
The feeding area was designed for easy access and featured a feeding trough and a water dispenser. We constructed the area using 9mm plywood and added a hinged door for easy cleaning and maintenance.
Installing the Heated Roosting Pads
One of the most challenging but rewarding aspects of this project was the installation of the heated roosting pads. We sourced a high-quality electric heating mat and carefully wired it into the coop’s electrical system. The pads were then installed on both sides of the coop, ensuring even heating and warmth for the chickens.
Adding Ventilation and Insulation
To ensure the coop remained cool and well-ventilated in the summer months, we installed a series of vents and windows. We also added insulation to the coop’s roof and walls, ensuring the chickens remained warm and comfortable on chilly nights.
Installing the Perches and Barriers
We constructed a series of perches and barriers to help train the chickens and provide them with a safe environment. The perches were made from durable wood and were spaced to accommodate the chickens comfortably.
Adding the Roofing and Finishing Touches
The final stage of the project involved installing a watertight roof and adding the finishing touches. We added a layer of insulation to the roof to ensure the coop remained cool in the summer and warm in the winter. We also added a small overhang to provide additional protection from the elements.
The Final Result
After months of planning, designing, and constructing, we were thrilled with the final result. The VT Commodore chicken coop looked stunning, with its unique design and functional features making it the perfect home for our client’s flock of 12 chickens. The heated roosting pads ensured the chickens remained warm and comfortable on chilly nights, making the coop an ideal choice for those with chickens living in colder climates.
Conclusion
Converting a car into a chicken coop is a unique and challenging project, requiring careful planning, design, and construction. Throughout this article, we’ve showcased the process of turning a VT Commodore into a chicken coop with heated roosting pads, highlighting the end result and the numerous benefits of such a project.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of chicken keeping, this article provides a comprehensive guide on how to create a functional and safe chicken coop from an old car. Who knows? Maybe you’ll be inspired to take on your own project and create a unique chicken coop that’s as functional as it is aesthetically pleasing!
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