Coop ventilation question

[crazy4ChickensNducks]

The only ventilation that my coop has in the winter (all other times there is a window open 24/7) is a 3'' by 12' oppening where the roof meets in the middle, its a ridge vent. I was wondering if this was enough ventilation because we will be experiencing temps below 0 this week and im trying to prevent frostbite. I have 15 chickens

 

[Notaneggspurt]

Have you noticed any moister previously? Condensation on the windows or dampness on the ceiling? And what is the height of your coop and roost placement?

 

[crazy4ChickensNducks]

The chickens roost on The 8 ft hight rafters and then it comes to a point

 

[Notaneggspurt]

The chickens roost on The 8 ft hight rafters and then it comes to a point

I'm trying to picture it, so their sleeping almost right up next to the roof?

 

[crazy4ChickensNducks]

Picture the roof as a triangle. They sleep on the bottom of the triangle so they are within 2 to 3 feet from the roof

 

[Notaneggspurt]

I think the general rule is 1 square foot of ventilation per chicken? I'm horrible at math so can't figure how how many square feet 3 inches by 12 feet is. When you walk in to the coop first thing in the morning house does it smell? Does it smell like ammonia? Damp?

 

[ButtonquailGirl14]

If you don't want frostbite, every other day slather Combs in petroleum jelly or vasaline. Heat lamps help to.

 

[pennyJo1960]

preferable no heat lamps they can cause fire

 

[ButtonquailGirl14]

preferable no heat lamps they can cause fire

yeah, I use one currently, but it does worry me... I am going to get one of those chicken coop heating pads that hang on walls.

 

[TexasSam]

Sounds like you have a good ventilation too me just be mindful of moisture. Watch for the window to fog up if it doesn’t then you are good. Do you have a deep litter?