Away from the metaphysical and esoteric for a while. This is by way of an illustrated construction manual for the
Hen House we bought recently.
The kit comes with a double sided instruction sheet that has patently been printed with the aid of a John Bull Printing set and a potato.
I surveyed the twin box delivery with dread and finding only this tiny plan, my heart sank. I am hoping that future purchasers may find this Diary of the Building of the Wentworth Chicken Coop a useful reassurance as they figure out which way is up.
As stated, the coop comes in two boxes. The larger of these contains the roof section. It is useful to know this as careless opening results in the gravel loosened from the felt roof in transit pouring from the pack and embedding itself in your new carpet.
Hoover. You goon.
 |
| The original instructions. Not for you, if you've lost your glasses.. |
 |
| The nest box roof. Also covered in tiny stones. and an aluminium mirror. Or Manure tray. Whichever.. |
 |
| Whoops. Vacuum. |
 |
| That looks about as substantial as my resolve.. |
|
|
Having removed all the pieces and spent time deciding that the printed picture is actually back to front, take the lot outside.
The back panel is mostly mesh and has a ventilation section (obscured in this picture). It is easily screwed to the side panel using the screws and helpfully pre-drilled holes provided. Yes. They do locate properly. No, it won't fall apart if you leave it like this and fetch the next panels.
Screw the Nesting box door section to the back frame. It will have to be supported while you collect the front panel. It is easily identified. There are two brackets that serve as a guide for the box door opening key. That's it there. Looking like a sardine can opener.
The front panel comprises a pre fitted door for the collection of eggs as well as a large access door in the centre. Again, the whole fits well together. I had to drill holes in some timber sections. They had been missed by the robots obviously.
The nesting box is built separately and screwed to the main body. There were one or two anxious moments as I realised that the curved separator was designed to slot precisely into place. All continues to locate as it should however.
 |
| Nesting box in place. |
 |
| Note the aluminium chicken poop tray. It sits over a wooden section and slides out easily. |
This is the first of a trio of testing fiddly bits. Not designed for people with large hands who have misplaced their glasses.
I experimented with the placement of the roof support and settled on left mounting. Only because I am right handed. It's up to you. The holes will need to be drilled for the micro screws they supply...
Try to remember to put a newspaper underneath while you do this. Or don't do it in long grass. Like me.
 |
| Roof on. This is the topping out ceremony. |
 |
| Et Voila |
|
|
A similar trial by bracket awaits you as the roof section goes on. I found that balancing the heavy plywood and roofing felt section on my head as I worked to be the best way.
Or, you could ask someone to help. I however, am a man and therefore keen to avoid that sort of thing.
All in all, a success. The hen house sits straight and level. It is a decent enough weight and feels more substantial than at first sight. It is an easy lift for two when re-siting is needed.
Now to the purchase or theft of Chickens. More to come....
