Nest box repair in Sidmouth
Looking for professional nest box repair help in Sidmouth? Hembury Contracting provides reliable rural services across Sidmouth and surrounding areas.
Price Guide
£60-£85
Typical Duration
30 mins-1 hr
Location
Sidmouth
Nest boxes repaired to keep your hens happy and laying in the right spots. I fix rotted boards, replace broken perches, tighten loose fixings - whatever it takes to make them cozy again.
When Hens Won't Use the Boxes
If your hens are laying in random corners instead of the nest boxes, something's wrong with the boxes. Too bright, too wobbly, too damp - hens are fussy about where they lay.
💡 Pro tip: One nest box per 3-4 hens is ideal. More hens than boxes and they queue up, get stressed, and start laying elsewhere.
Common Nest Box Problems
| ✅ Fixed Properly | ❌ Bodge Job |
|---|---|
| Rotten boards replaced completely | Piece of cardboard shoved underneath |
| Proper drainage holes drilled | Water pooling, rot spreading |
| Secure perch firmly fixed | Wobbly stick cable-tied on |
| Dark and cozy inside | Cracks letting light flood in |
What You're Getting
🔧 The Repair
| Stage | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Check | See what's actually broken/rotted |
| Replace | Swap out failed boards, perches, fixings |
| Improve | Add drainage, patch light leaks |
| Test | Make sure it's sturdy and hens will use it |
📦 End Result
- Structurally sound nest box
- Dark cozy laying spot
- Properly draining base
- Hens actually using it again
Pricing Guide
| Repair Type | Estimated Time | You'll Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Simple fix (perch, tightening) | 30 mins | £60 |
| Replace rotted board | 45 mins | £60 |
| Multiple repairs per box | 1 hr | £60 |
Based on £60 minimum (first hour) + £50/hr after. Basic timber included - if you want me to source fancy materials, that's extra.
Perfect For Your Coop If...
✅ Hens laying elsewhere - boxes not appealing anymore
✅ Rotted bases - damp bedding, wood falling apart
✅ Wobbly structure - hens won't settle in unstable boxes
✅ Too bright - gaps and cracks letting light in
Why Choose Us for Nest box repair in Sidmouth?
Broken boards replaced
Loose fixings tightened
Dark cozy spots restored
Hens laying properly again
What to Expect
Step 1: Assessment
I check what's broken, what's rotted, what needs replacing. Sometimes it's obvious, sometimes I need to test boards to see what's soft.
Step 2: Repair
Replace rotten sections, fix broken perches, tighten everything up. Add drainage if needed.
Step 3: Test
Make sure the box is sturdy, dark enough, and appealing to hens. You'll know it works when they start using it again.
Our Sidmouth Service Coverage
We cover Sidmouth and a 30-mile radius from Exeter, meaning you get local service with the backing of an established business. Whether you're in the centre of Sidmouth or in the surrounding villages, we're here to help.
Good to Know
> **Prevention:** Line nest box bases with old vinyl flooring or rubber mat. Easy to lift out and clean, stops rot reaching the timber. **How many boxes:** One box per 3-4 hens is plenty. They'll all use the same favorite box anyway, but you need spares. **Curtains:** Some people add hessian curtains to darken boxes. Hens like them but they get grotty fast. **Cleaning:** Empty and clean boxes weekly. Damp dirty bedding is what rots them out and spreads disease.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nest box repair in Sidmouth
What goes wrong with nest boxes?
Usually rotted bottoms (from damp bedding), cracked or split boards, broken perches, and failed fixings. Hens are rough on them - they scratch, jump, and generally knock things about. Plus the constant damp from droppings rots wood fast.
Can you fix rotted bottoms?
Yes - I cut out the rotten section and replace it with exterior ply or treated timber. While I'm at it, I'll drill drainage holes if there aren't any - stops water pooling and rotting it again.
Do nest boxes need to be dark?
Hens prefer a dim, cozy spot to lay. If your box is too bright (cracks letting light in, missing lid), they might lay elsewhere. I'll patch holes and make sure lids fit properly.
What about the perch in front?
If it's broken or missing, I'll replace it. Hens like to hop up on it before getting into the box. Needs to be secure - a wobbly perch and they won't use the box.
How long does repair take?
Simple fix like tightening screws or replacing a perch - half an hour. Replacing rotten boards or major repairs - up to an hour. I'll tell you what's needed when I see it.
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01392 964094Request Online QuotePricing for Sidmouth
* Same rates for all locations in our service area
Got multiple jobs?
Make the most of your first hour - I can often tackle several small tasks in one visit. List everything you need done when you call!
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