Raising chickens is a bit like building with Lego blocks—pure fun when it clicks, but a mess when the pieces don’t fit. You’ve got the joy of fresh eggs and quirky hen antics, sure, but then there’s the tricky stuff: coops that feel too tight or a sneaky raccoon eyeing your flock. For 11 – 20 chickens, that’s where the real puzzle starts, and I’m here to help you snap it together.
See, picking the proper coop isn’t just about tossing your birds in a box—it’s about getting precise for their health, safety, and comfort. A coop that’s too tiny cramps their style stresses them out and cuts down on eggs. An innovative design, though? That’s like a well-made Lego set—everything fits, predators stay out, and your chickens thrive. For a flock this size, you need room, toughness, and a setup that doesn’t make your life harder. Get it right, and it’s a win for everybody.
Here’s what you’re in for: I’ll walk you through the top 5 coops that handle 11-20 chickens like champs. We’ll check out what makes them tick—think nesting spots, easy cleaning, and solid builds—plus some handy tips to pick the one that fits your yard or farm. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what works; no guesswork is needed. Ready to sort this out and keep your flock clucking happily? Let’s dive in!
Why Choosing the Right Chicken Coop Matters
Selecting the proper chicken coop is more than just picking a shelter—it directly impacts your flock’s health, happiness, and productivity. Here’s why it matters:
- Importance of Space: Overcrowding leads to stress, aggressive behavior, and a higher risk of disease. A properly sized coop ensures your chickens have enough room to roost, nest, and move around comfortably, leading to better egg production and overall well-being.
- Comfort and Safety: A well-designed coop provides ventilation to keep the air fresh, sturdy construction to keep predators out, and an easy-to-clean layout to maintain hygiene. Proper airflow prevents respiratory issues, while secure latches and reinforced fencing protect against nighttime threats.
- Long-Term Investment: A high-quality coop built from durable materials saves you money and effort in the long run. Investing in a sturdy, well-ventilated coop means fewer repairs, lower replacement costs, and a healthier flock that thrives year after year.
By choosing a coop that meets your chickens’ needs, you create a stress-free, productive environment that benefits both you and your flock.
Key Features to Look for in a Chicken Coop for 11-20 Chickens
Not all chicken coops are created equal. When housing 11-20 chickens, you need a setup that balances space, durability, and functionality.
- Size and Capacity: Each chicken needs 4 square feet in the coop and 8 to 10 square feet in the run. Make sure there’s enough room to prevent overcrowding and stress.
- Durability: Coops should be made of weather-resistant materials like treated wood, heavy-duty metal, or plastic to withstand the elements and daily wear.
- Ventilation and Insulation: Proper airflow prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to respiratory issues. Adjustable vents, mesh windows, and insulated walls help maintain a comfortable temperature year-round.
- Ease of Cleaning: A coop with removable trays, wide doors, and accessible nesting boxes makes cleaning quicker and more efficient, reducing odors and disease risk.
- Predator Protection: Look for reinforced wire mesh, sturdy locks, and an elevated design to keep out raccoons, foxes, and other predators.
- Portability: If you prefer a movable coop, consider a model with wheels or skids to rotate grazing areas and keep your chickens on fresh ground.
- Aesthetic Appeal: While function is key, a well-designed coop can also enhance your backyard’s look. Choose a style that blends with your space and suits your preferences.
A well-built coop makes chicken keeping easier, keeps your flock healthy, and gives you peace of mind.
Top 5 Chicken Coops for 11-20 Chickens
Coop #1: Gutinneen Chicken Coop 55ft²
Alright, let’s kick things off with the Gutinneen Chicken Coop—a big, friendly wooden home for your flock. It’s got 55 square feet of space, counting a comfy inside spot and a nice run outside. Made from natural wood, it’s like a cozy cabin for 10-15 chickens, perfect for backyard folks who want happy hens.
Key Features:
- 55 sq ft total (137″ L x 63″ W x 62″ H), with a run and a ramp to hop inside.
- Six big nesting boxes—split into two sets of three—for lots of egg-laying room.
- Solid wood with a waterproof roof and rigid wire fencing.
- Mesh windows to keep air moving, plus a sliding tray you can pull out to clean.
- Spring latches that say “no way” to sneaky predators.
Pros and Cons
- It fits 10-15 chickens with space to stretch their wings.
- Six nesting boxes? That's more than enough for 11-15 hens (think one box per 3-4 girls).
- Built tough to handle rain or shine all year.
- Cleaning's a breeze with that tray and easy layout.
- Putting it together might take a couple of hours—it's a big guy!
- The run's fencing could use a boost if you've got crafty foxes around.
Best For: Backyard setups or small farms that want a roomy coop with tons of nesting spots for 11-15 chickens.
Coop 2: OverEZ Classic Large Chicken Coop
Next up is the OverEZ Classic Large Chicken Coop, a fancy, Amish-made beauty from the USA. It’s built to hold up to 15 chickens and focuses on being uncompromising and straightforward to use. Think of it like the Lexus of coops—precise and reliable for folks who want quality without the fuss.
Key Features:
- 50 sq ft inside (74″ L x 60″ W x 72″ H), suitable for 12-15 chickens.
- Five nesting boxes you can reach from outside, plus two roosting bars.
- Strong wood with a hefty asphalt roof that laughs at lousy weather.
- Three screened vents for fresh air and lockable latches for safety.
- Snaps together in under an hour with a screw gun—boom, done!
Pros and Cons
- Tough as nails and ready for any season.
- Room for 11-15 chickens with cozy nesting and roosting spots.
- It is super quick to set up, and grabbing eggs is a cinch.
- Made in the USA with that pro-level craftsmanship.
- It costs more because it's top-notch stuff.
- No run included—you'd need to grab that separately if you want one.
Best for Small farms or chicken fans who want a solid, no-hassle coop for 11-15 birds.
Coop 3: Aivituvin Chicken Coop
Say hi to the Aivituvin Chicken Coop—a handy wooden cage with 55 sq ft of space, mixing a snug hen house with a big run. It’s built for 10-15 chickens and has a design that’s easy to tweak, perfect for folks who like a little flexibility with their flock.
Key Features:
- 55 sq ft total (137″ L x 63″ W x 62″ H), with a run and a ramp to connect it all.
- You can get to six nesting boxes (two sets of three) quickly.
- Fir wood with a waterproof roof and sturdy wire mesh.
- Mesh windows for air and a sliding door to keep things safe.
- Pull-out tray for cleaning and some models even have wheels.
Pros and Cons
- There is plenty of room for 10-15 chickens, plus a safe run to hang out in.
- Loads of nesting boxes for your egg-laying champs.
- It's weatherproof and a snap to clean with that tray.
- It's an excellent price for all the goodies you get.
- Assembly's a puzzle if the instructions aren't clear.
- Wood might need a coat of sealant if you're in a rainy spot.
Best for Backyard keepers who want a budget-friendly coop with room to grow for 11-15 chickens.
Coop 4: PawHut Wooden Chicken Coop
The PawHut Wooden Chicken Coop is a big, walk-in wooden setup with 72 sq ft of space—perfect for 11-18 chickens. It’s got a modern vibe and innovative features, like a door you can stroll through, making it a winner for anyone who wants a little extra room to work with.
Key Features:
- 72 sq ft total (156.3″ L x 57.3″ W x 49.6″ H), with a huge run.
- Four nesting boxes you can reach from outside, plus perches galore.
- Treated wood with a waterproof roof and strong steel mesh.
- Adjustable vents and a walk-in door for air and easy cleaning.
- Raised inside with a ramp for your chickens to climb up.
Pros and Cons
- Loads of space for 11-18 chickens to strut their stuff.
- The walk-in door makes chores and hangout time simple.
- Good airflow and predator protection keep everyone happy.
- Cool gray look spruces up your yard.
- It takes some time to build—grab a buddy to help!
- Four nesting boxes might not cut it if you're pushing 20 chickens.
Best for Small farms or big backyards that need a spacious, walk-in coop for 11-18 chickens.
Coop 5: OverEZ Classic XL Chicken Coop
Last but not least, the OverEZ Classic XL Chicken Coop is an extra-big, Amish-made wooden coop for up to 20 chickens. It’s a solid, roomy home for your flock, built with care and innovative design—perfect if you’re dreaming of a few more hens down the road.
Key Features:
- 64 sq ft inside (98.0″ L x 60.0″ W x 72.5″ H), great for 15-20 chickens.
- Five nesting boxes, three roosting bars, and a walk-in door.
- Heavy-duty wood with a rigid asphalt roof and screened vents.
- Lockable latches on everything for top-notch security.
- Goes up in under an hour with just a few tools.
Pros and Cons
- Big enough for 15-20 chickens with room to breathe.
- Top-quality build that lasts through anything Mother Nature throws at it.
- The walk-in design and quick setup make it a joy to use.
- Excellent ventilation keeps your flock feeling fresh.
- The price tag's a bit steep—quality doesn't come cheap!
- There is no run built-in, but you can add one if you want.
Best for Small farms or big-dreaming backyard keepers who want a premium coop for 15-20 chickens.
Comparison Table: 5 Best Chicken Coops for 11-20 Chickens
| Coop Name | Size | Material | Key Features | Pros | Cons |
| Gutinneen 55ft² with Run | 55 sq ft | Natural wood, wire | 6 nesting boxes, big run, sliding tray | Roomy, tons of nests, easy to clean | Takes time to build, run needs work |
| OverEZ Classic Large | 50 sq ft | Solid wood | 5 nesting boxes, quick setup, vents | Tough, fast to build, USA-made | No run included |
| Aivituvin 55ft² with Run | 55 sq ft | Fir wood, wire | 6 nesting boxes, run, optional wheels | Affordable, spacious, nest-heavy | Tricky assembly, wood needs care |
| PawHut with Run | 72 sq ft | Treated wood, steel | 4 nesting boxes, walk-in, big run | Huge space, easy access, cool look | Slow to build, fewer nests |
| OverEZ Classic XL | 64 sq ft | Heavy-duty wood | 5 nesting boxes, walk-in, 3 roost bars | Big, durable, simple setup | No run built-in |
Tips for Maintaining Your Chicken Coop
Proper maintenance of your chicken coop ensures a safe, clean, and comfortable environment for your flock. Here are some essential tips:
- Regular Cleaning: To prevent odor, pests, and disease, clean the coop at least once a week. Remove droppings, replace bedding, and scrub surfaces with a mild disinfectant—deep clean every few months by washing all surfaces, including perches and nesting boxes.
- Seasonal Maintenance: Adjust your coop setup for changing weather. In winter, add extra insulation, check for drafts, and use heated waterers to prevent freezing. In summer, increase ventilation, provide shade, and ensure the water supply stays cool and fresh.
- Health Checks: Regularly inspect your flock and their living space for signs of illness or stress. Ensure good ventilation, dry bedding, and pest control measures to keep your chickens healthy and comfortable.
- Upgrades and Repairs: Monitor your coop for wear and tear, especially in wood structures. Reinforce weak spots, repair leaks, and upgrade predator-proofing as needed. Consider adding automated doors, extra nesting boxes, or roosting bars for convenience and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much space do 11-20 chickens need?
For optimal comfort and health, each chicken needs about 4 square feet inside the coop and 8-10 square feet in the run. That means a flock of 11-20 chickens should have at least 44-80 square feet indoors and 88-200 square feet outdoors to prevent overcrowding, stress, and disease.
Can I build my coop, or should I buy one?
Both options work, depending on your skills, time, and budget. Building your coop allows customization and can save money, but it requires solid planning and durable materials. Buying a pre-made coop ensures a sturdy, predator-proof design with less hassle—perfect for those who want a quick, reliable setup.
What’s the average lifespan of a chicken coop?
A well-built, properly maintained chicken coop can last 10-20 years. The lifespan depends on materials, weather conditions, and upkeep. Wood coops may need repainting or sealing over time, while metal and plastic coops tend to last longer with minimal maintenance.
How do I protect my chickens from predators?
Use reinforced wire mesh, secure latches, and an elevated design to keep out raccoons, foxes, and other threats. Consider automatic doors that close at dusk and motion-activated lights or predator deterrents. Regularly check for weak spots and gaps in fencing.
What’s the best way to clean a chicken coop?
For routine cleaning, remove droppings and replace bedding once a week. Scrub surfaces with a mild disinfectant and refresh food and water stations. Every few months, do a deep clean—wash all surfaces, disinfect nesting boxes, and check for any needed repairs. Keeping the coop clean prevents odor, pests, and disease.
Conclusion
Well, we’ve come full circle, haven’t we? Raising 11-20 chickens is a bit like snapping Lego blocks together—get the fit just right, and everything clicks. We’ve explored five coops that do the trick, from the nest-happy Gutinneen to the big-and-bold OverEZ XL. Each one’s got its way of handling the messy, marvelous world of chickens—keeping them healthy, safe, and cozy. It’s about precision in the design: enough space so they’re not pecking each other silly, innovative features to fend off weather and foxes, and a setup that doesn’t leave you scratching your head. When that’s solid, your flock thrives, and you get to enjoy the eggs and antics.
Picking the best? It’s like choosing the right Lego piece—it depends on your build. If your wallet’s tight, the Aivituvin’s got your back with room and value. Got a big yard and some cash to spare? The PawHut or OverEZ XL can handle the job with style. The trick is matching the coop to your world—your space, your chickens, your patience for tinkering. There’s no perfect-for-everyone answer, just the one that fits you like a glove.
So, what’s your take? I already have a coop that’s working wonders, or maybe one of these caught your eye? Pop a comment below—I’d love to hear how your chicken adventure’s going. Perhaps you’ve got a clever twist I haven’t thought of, like using an old coop for a garden shed! Whatever it is, here’s to building something tolerant and challenging—because a happy flock makes the whole thing worthwhile.