This is my current duckbunker as I call it. Lets just say its built pretty solid. The only questions I have are ventilation, water placement and feed placement for the winter. The outside is Smartside composite panels http://www.homedepot.com/p/SmartSid...874/100055901?keyword=smartboard#.UkieeYZ6YhM on 2x4's with 16 inches on center. Roof is osb board 7/16" with felt paper and rolled tar paper over it. I think its fairly well suitable to keep them warm enough in the winter.
I was looking to build a raised area enclosed with 1/4" wire cloth on 2x4 or similar frame onto the outside of the front to put a heated water dish in and their food so the water wouldn't freeze. The only way to do this is using an extension cord to supply the water heater. I know extension cords are a big no no so any other ideas? Feed would also go in as far form the water as possible so they don't make a mess.
Next is the ventilation. You can see in the photo at the top there is wire cloth over the roof ends for ventilation. Should I close this off in the winter or what to do with it? This will be their first winter outside for all of them so want to make sure they are well taken care of. Our winters here can be from the teens to a little below zero sometimes with snow ranging from a dusting to a few feet.
Looking forward to your questions and comments.
I was looking to build a raised area enclosed with 1/4" wire cloth on 2x4 or similar frame onto the outside of the front to put a heated water dish in and their food so the water wouldn't freeze. The only way to do this is using an extension cord to supply the water heater. I know extension cords are a big no no so any other ideas? Feed would also go in as far form the water as possible so they don't make a mess.
Next is the ventilation. You can see in the photo at the top there is wire cloth over the roof ends for ventilation. Should I close this off in the winter or what to do with it? This will be their first winter outside for all of them so want to make sure they are well taken care of. Our winters here can be from the teens to a little below zero sometimes with snow ranging from a dusting to a few feet.
Looking forward to your questions and comments.