Adding ventilation to a prefab coop

[SusanD]

Hi,

My parents and I have our three young chicks (we got them in February) in a prefab coop, and I am now aware that ventilation is an issue. I talked to my father about adding a (hopefully small, closable) vent to both gables. He didn't think that it would make a difference unless we also had a breeze going through. I didn't want to push for this unless it would make a difference? If not, I will plan on changing and airing the coop frequently, until we have a chance to move them to something more suitable.

 

[Bailey1204]

Having it open without a breeze will work fine. If it is warm in there the warm air will rush out and rise to the vends and cool, clean air will come in to fill the space the warm air left. It will create a breeze of its own. I would recommend airing it out and having vent holes. Sometimes stuff settles nesting boxes and stuff.

 

[SusanD]

So, I think we absolutely do need to add some vent holes (I noticed my chickens with their mouths open when I open the lid to check on them at night - It's not that hot any more, so I think it might be an air quality issue). Before I talk to my Dad about it, is adding some circular holes under the gables the way to go, or is there a better way?

Thanks,

Susan

 

[SunHwaKwon]

It definitely looks like it needs more ventilation! Is there any at all currently? Can you take a picture of the inside so we can see the setup? The issue is you have to be careful with ventilation placement so you don't have drafts when they are roosting. What are the approximate dimensions of the coop?

 

[henless]

When you add your vents, make sure they are above their heads when they are roosting. You don't want to create a draft on them during the winter.

You can drill holes in the gables, or actually put in a house vent like you use with central heat/air. You can open and close those to control the draft. Also, be sure and put hardware cloth over the opening, no matter which you use.

 

[aart]

Yes....Heating vents might be a good choice. Put one on each end for some cross venting.
I'd be concerned with rain with that coop, are you in the rainy part of OR?

 

[SusanD]

HI,

Thanks for your replies. Aart, yes I am in the rainy part of Oregon. It hasn't really started yet (I expect it will in October). I can see where that might be a concern, unless we are careful to open it up only when it's not raining.

SunHwaKwon, in answer to your questions, the only real ventilation it has is when it's open during the day (I would leave it open at night, but I'm afraid I would be inviting our local raccoons to help themselves to chicken supper).

I will try to take a picture tomorrow.

Thanks,

Susan

 

[aart]

Those coops don't hold up well in the rain...and check closely for leaks.

 

[SusanD]

My dad did add some small holes in the gables and put wire over them, so should help. I did notice when I went out the next morning that they were all sleeping peacefully

I think (hope) the angle is right that the rain shouldn't go inside. The next few days will be a test, as our rainy season has officially started.

 

[SusanD]

Well, the coop did not survive the test (Rain go in through the vent holes on one side). So, my parents and I having the turn it (hopefully, so the holes are away from the prevailing wind), buy a new coop, or give them away discussion. The good news is that the chickens appear fine this morning. I really don't think we can overwinter them this way though (and so much for my attempt to help).

Susan