How to Build a Green Roof on a Chicken Coop
Raising backyard chickens is a growing trend in urban and suburban areas. The lure of local-as-it-gets food, the excitement of a new pet and the prospect of a ready supply of compost make owning a few chickens an enticing concept for green-minded folks. Adding a "green" roof -- one with plants growing on the surface -- expands the environmental and personal benefits of a chicken coop. Before starting, make sure the roof structure can the weight of the soil and plants. Because a chicken coop roof is small, little or no additional support may be needed to accommodate a green roof. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Wood
- Nails
- Hammer
- Weatherproof membrane
- Root-protection barrier
- Gravel
- Sand
- Mulch
- Soil
- Plants
Instructions
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Build a wood retaining edge around the roof of the coop to hold the soil and plants. Depending on the weather in your area and the plants and materials you choose,make the edge 5 to 12 inches tall and at least 2 inches thick. Predrill with a bit just smaller than your screws before screwing through the flat end of one board and into the cut end of the other. The corners can also be secured using "L" brackets or pocket screws for additional strength.
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Lay the weatherproof membrane and root barrier directly onto the roof.
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Mix equal parts sand and gravel and add at a depth recommended for drainage in your area. If weight is a concern, look for lightweight sand and expanded shale to create this drainage layer.
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Add a mix of soil and mulch appropriate for your chosen plants. Look for plants with similar growing needs to reduce upkeep of the roof. Consider using the space to grown herbs or greens commonly used in the kitchen or for adding to the chickens' diet.
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Tips & Warnings
Roofs with even a slight slant can be harnessed for water collection by creating a channel in which water can drain toward a bucket.
