Metal shipping container

[acermaximus]

I have a 20' metal shipping container that I would like to use as a coop. I have read others that have had trouble with using metal. I really don't want to insulate if I dont have too. How much ventilation should there be? Is there some kind of formula per bird? I am in the Pacific Northwest.

 

[User690263]

My biggest concern would be it overheating in the summer.
Welcome to BYC!

 

[acermaximus]

My biggest concern would be it overheating in the summer.
Welcome to BYC!

I am placing at least half the container in the shade and am planning on having fans, but not sure how many. and thank you!

 

[DobieLover]

How much ventilation should there be?

1 sq ft of permanently open ventilation per bird.
If you are going to use a big metal box, you will need to add large windows backed with 1/2" hardware cloth and I would definitely insulate it in some fashion to keep the birds from pecking at it. It will be an oven if you don't. And if possible, place in an area with maximum shade during the day.

 

[aart]

One of the biggest problems, IMO, with that type of structure is there is no roof overhangs to protect the ventilation it will need from precipitation.

 

[acermaximus]

1 sq ft of permanently open ventilation per bird.
If you are going to use a big metal box, you will need to add large windows backed with 1/2" hardware cloth and I would definitely insulate it in some fashion to keep the birds from pecking at it. It will be an oven if you don't. And if possible, place in an area with maximum shade during the day.

Is the 1sqft per bird for summer or winter or both?

 

[DobieLover]

Is the 1sqft per bird for summer or winter or both?

Permanently open ventilation.
More should be opened up for summer.