An engineering question...

[4 the Birds]

Can the coop be turned into the wind, the triangle end, to decrease some of the pressure?

Moving the coop so the end is facing upwind of storms will for sure help but it still needs to be anchored or stabilized with a wide base. Storm winds often can shift in swirl in an instant!

 

[Ridgerunner]

600 versus 2800. It’s not just the 700 pounds versus 300 pounds, its where that force is acting and in which direction. If the geometry were right, the 300 pounds might be enough to handle the 700.

Yes, you can turn the narrow side into the wind to reduce the overturning force since you have less area for the wind to act on plus you have a longer base which will help give more resistance if you have a known wind direction.

You can add weight on the upwind side to help. You can spread the base out, maybe like canoe outriggers. You can reduce the height of the area the wind is hitting. You can use wire instead of wood to cover a portion of the top so you reduce the surface area the wind is hitting. You can anchor the upwind side. Lots of things you can do to help.

 

[journey11]

Thanks Ridgerunner, your explanation works for me. After last year's derecho, I've had to rethink how I do some things around here. There's not much I can do to change the structure at this point, other than the 2x4 extension that was mentioned. I've also got a couple of outbuildings I can put it behind to break the wind. It moves very easily. I've just got to stay on top of the weather forecast.

 

[jetdog]

sometimes simpler is better.

 

[yogifink]

Quote:
...My head hurts I think I'll stick to logistics!

 

[Arielle]

If you are living the farming life at any level, checking the weather forecast is a must. ANd you will learn which stations have the most accurate forecasts for your area.

I think you are right, at this point, try the outriggers and weights or in ground anchors. I prefer a big snow storm to a strong wind storm. Unfortunately I don' t have any say in the matter.

 

[petrel]

If unattended, yes. However, if you keep an eye on the weather and either turn it into the wind or move it into a wind break when gusts will exceed about 30kts (total guess, I'm not an engineer), you'd probably be ok.

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

Quote: With that shape, wind direction is critical, but I can promise you it WILL turn over with a strong broadside wind