Size:
The most important thing is making sure your chickens are safe and comfortable in their new walk in chicken coop. Though a coop may look good, it may not have enough room for each chicken to walk around. No matter the size of your outdoor space, a roomy coop is necessary. If you just have one or two chickens, a coop measuring between 50-70 inches is fine. However, if you have a whole group of chickens, you should opt for coops that measure at least 80 inches. Some chicken coops even measure over 100 inches, so there's no excuse for cramped chicken conditions. Moreover, the walk in aspect requires more depth space -- ensure you can walk into the coop comfortably without having to bend down, as crouching may cause you back trouble over time.
Material and Maintenance:
A large amount of walk in chicken coops are made from galvanized metal and a form of wire mesh. The reason galvanized metal is often used for outdoor objects like chicken coops is that, unlike regular metal, the galvanization process makes metal ultimately more durable. Because of this recommended always opting for a chicken coop that is made from galvanized metal rather than regular. Whilst regular metal can be useful and sturdy, it will become damaged much more easily and will also show rust that will be difficult to clean. As for wire mesh, mesh provides a breathable environment for chickens and allows them to receive fresh air when inside the coop. It is also a relatively strong material, meaning it will withstand damage from wind, rain, and chickens running into it.
Waterproof Properties:
A walk in chicken coop should have waterproof properties so it won't get damaged easily. The most vital thing that will need to be waterproof is the roof of the coop. Whilst metal roofs are good, some chicken coops instead feature special canvas or cloth roofs that are designed to repel water. However, although canvas is waterproof and will stop rain from pouring into the coop, it does collect mildew easily. It also has a tendency to look dirty, as birds love to use it as a resting spot. If neither of these options sound appealing, plastic sheets made from PVC or polycarbonate are another good roof option and will keep your chickens nice and dry. Always keep in mind that the roof of your chosen chicken coop should be sloped, too.
Style:
Though a walk in chicken coop is a practical item, that doesn't mean buying one has to ruin the look of your carefully cultivated garden. Whether you have a separate space in your garden for your mini farm or use one space for everything, you can work with your chicken coop to create a good look. The majority of walk in chicken coops have a minimalist and straightforward look, with most featuring a gray, black, or silver finish due to the metal and wire mesh construction. You can either paint the roof for a more stylized look or surround your coop with plants and flowers for a pop of color that won't harm the chickens. Moreover, the higher the roof of a coop, the better, as a smaller coop roof can look closed-in.