My Coop design

[scimo]

JudyMcKinn,
I plan on using perforated aluminum sheets for the sides of the coop (the run will have wire cloth):

http://www.mcmaster.com/param/images/wirecloth/ItemDetailPerforatedRoundStaggered9255t781.gif

During the winter months, I plan on using heavy duty clear plastic film for the coop. The clear plastic sides will be held by snaps. The sides could be rolled up and held in place by a strap.

The nest box access door will be like this one from McMaster Carr:

http://www.mcmaster.com/catalog/113/gfx/small/8450ap1s.gif

 

[JudyMcKinn]

Looks great--both the metal door and the perforated metal. Apparently it doesn't get real cold there in winter, right? Be sure and let us see the finished product, too. Good Luck with it.

 

[scimo]

JudyMcKinn,
The low temperatures at night during the winters months can get down to the 30s (rare). Do I need to worry about wind draft protection? If not, maybe I will just use mesh for the coop, instead of the more expensive perforated aluminum sheets. What do you think? Will the hens prefer a coop (roosting area) that has smaller holes (perforated sheets) that will give them the sense of more "cover."


Aesthetically, I am not sure which option is better. The mesh will be more "airy." However, the perforated sheets would give a delineation between the coop and the run.

 

[TxChiknRanchers]

drafty is not good in the winter. Venting is required but not too much I personally would insulate the ceiling and maybe the walls Aluminum gets really hot in the sun. I mean really hot! sometimes you cannot put your hand on it when it is in direct sun. MY Experience. FYI

 

[JudyMcKinn]

Hopefully some of the others will pitch in here, but I feel sure you definately need to provide draft protection in cold weather. A draft will make them sick faster than anything, while they can get used to the cold, if they have a draft free place. If it gets that cold, I think you will want a pretty cozy place for them in winter, where no wind can get to them.
If it isn't too much higher, I would stay with the perforated metal, I think, rather than just the mesh, for the coop part, and cover it with plastic, as you said, in winter, to keep out a draft.

 

[scimo]

I am feeling less ambitious and have simplified the roof design (see picture).

 

[JudyMcKinn]

That roof sure does look a lot simpler. Your drawing is great. Can't wait to see your building skills.

Just kidding, but I am anxious to see how it comes out.

 

[scimo]

 

[Zylphrix]

very nice!!! ... I likey

 

[halo]

Wow!!!! How nice is that!!!