Raising backyard chickens is both fun and rewarding. But if you’re serious about collecting fresh eggs daily, you’ll need to provide your hens with a cozy and functional nesting area. And here’s the best part — you can build nesting boxes right on the outside of your chicken coop to make egg collection easier and keep your coop cleaner.
Sounds handy, right? In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to build external nesting boxes for your chicken coop — step by step — using simple tools and materials. Whether you’re new to DIY projects or your hands are already familiar with a saw and hammer, this article’s for you!
Table of Contents
Why Install Nesting Boxes on the Outside of the Coop?
Before we dive into blueprints and boards, let’s talk about why building external nesting boxes makes sense. Many chicken owners (myself included!) quickly realize that collecting eggs from inside the coop can be a pain — especially once your chickens are, well, “doing their business” everywhere.
Here are a few reasons to consider building those boxes on the outside:
- Easy Egg Collection: You won’t need to step inside the coop to grab eggs. Just lift the lid and collect!
- Cleaner Coop Interior: With nesting boxes outside, there’s less mess inside.
- Extra Space: External boxes free up more room in the coop for your chickens to move around.
- Better Ventilation and Layout: You can keep the nesting area separate from the roosting space.
Bonus? You can even make it look nice. I’ve seen folks paint the outside boxes to match their coops — or even add shingles for extra flair!
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves. Before we start measuring and sawing, you’ll want to gather the right tools and materials.
Tools:
- Measuring tape
- Circular saw or handsaw
- Drill and wood screws
- Wood glue (optional for extra hold)
- Hinges and latch for the lid
- Sanding paper (or an electric sander for quick work)
Materials:
- Plywood or weather-treated wood (for durability)
- 1×2 or 2×2 boards for framing
- Nails or screws to put everything together
- Roofing materials (metal sheet, shingles, or rubber matting)
- Paint or sealant for outdoor protection
Don’t worry if you don’t have everything brand-new. I’ve salvaged wood from old furniture or used leftover paint. Just make sure anything you reuse is non-toxic and safe for chickens.
Step-by-Step: Building External Nesting Boxes
This design features a rectangular box with a sloped lid mounted on the outside wall of your chicken coop. Here’s how to put it all together.
Step 1: Measure & Mark
Start by measuring your coop wall to determine how many nesting boxes you can fit. A good rule of thumb is 1 nesting box for every 3–4 hens. Aim for each box to be about 12” wide x 12” deep x 12–14” high.
Step 2: Cut Your Wood Pieces
Using your saw, cut the following pieces from your plyboard:
- Back panel (attaches to the coop wall)
- Bottom panel (slightly sloped for egg roll, if desired)
- Two side panels
- Front board (with lower height to keep bedding in)
- Top lid (cut larger as an angled roof)
- Dividers (for multiple boxes)
Step 3: Assemble the Box Frame
Start with the bottom, back, and side panels. Use wood screws to join them securely.
Pro tip: It’s helpful to pre-drill the holes before screwing, especially if your wood is prone to splitting.
Once you’ve got a “U” shape, screw on the front piece and internal dividers (if adding more than one box).
Step 4: Build & Attach the Lid
Cut your top panel slightly larger than the nesting box — wide enough to create an overhang and protect from rain. Attach it using hinges so the lid can swing open.
Add a latch to keep out predators (raccoons are clever — trust me, they know how to lift things!). Consider a weather seal around the edge to keep things dry in wet climates.
Step 5: Mount on the Coop
Find a good spot on your coop’s wall that’s easy to access. Use screws through the back panel to attach the nesting boxes securely. Make sure the structure is supported and level. You may need brackets underneath if your boxes are especially heavy or deep.
Step 6: Add Bedding & Finishing Touches
Fill the inside with soft bedding like straw, pine shavings, or nesting pads. These give hens a comfy spot and help cushion the eggs.
Lastly, paint or seal the exterior to protect against the weather. If you’re feeling creative, throw on a little chicken-themed sign or decor — it’s your coop, after all!
Tips for Success
Want to make your nesting project stress-free? Here are a few pointers:
- Keep the lid slope at least 10–15 degrees so rainwater runs off.
- Don’t place nesting boxes too high. Chickens like to nest closer to the ground, but not too low to invite rodents.
- Use mesh on the bottom for drainage (optional but handy in wet areas).
- Place boxes in a shaded area—heat can stress out your hens and affect egg laying.
Wrapping It Up
Building external nesting boxes is a smart DIY upgrade for any chicken keeper. Not only does it make egg collection easier (and cleaner), but it also gives your hens a peaceful place to do their thing. And trust me, once you build your first box, you’ll want to improve other parts of the coop too — it’s addictive!
So, whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your current setup, follow these steps and watch how smoothly your morning egg collection goes. Happy building — and even happier hens!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many nesting boxes do I need?
About one box for every 3–4 hens is ideal. Too many, and they won’t all be used. Chickens tend to share their favorite spots!
Can I use plastic bins instead of building with wood?
You can, but wooden boxes are more durable and provide better insulation. Plus, they just look nicer and blend into your coop design.
How often should I clean nesting boxes?
Inspect and spot-clean daily when collecting eggs. Do a deeper clean every 1–2 weeks or as needed.
What if my chickens aren’t using the boxes?
Try moving the boxes to a quieter, darker spot. Ensure there’s enough bedding and no other birds are bullying them away.
Ready to Build?
Got your tools ready? Now you know exactly how to build nesting boxes on the outside of a chicken coop — why not give it a go this weekend? Your chickens (and your back) will thank you!
Let us know how it turned out — or share your own tips with fellow chicken lovers in the comments!
