Need suggestions for cold weather coop

[bogwitch]

I am building a shed on a 8'x12' cement pad, where 8x4 will be a coop and 8x8 will be a storage shed for bikes, etc and they will share an internal wall. I am struggling with where to put doors, because here in WI the winters get pretty cold. I had thought to put a full-sized door leading from the outside into the coop, because I know that will make it easier to clean, but then that would be how I would gain access for feeding and watering, and I think opening up a full size door into the coop in the middle of winter will be too cold? I thought to put the door into the coop on the inside wall, but then I would have to enter the storage shed to get to the door into the coop, and that would cut down on storage area available in the shed part. I have massive indecision and need to figure this stuff out. Any suggestions? I am already planning on insulating the walls in the coop, and having an electric water heater and heat/light source in the winter, so it really is only a matter of door situation....

 

[moetrout]

I would put the door where ever is most convienent for you. Opening a door in the winter and letting in cold air is not going to bother them. Chickens tolerate the cold much better than the heat. Remember, they're always wearing their down coat.

 

[JackE]

Put the door where it is most convenient for YOU. The chickens can handle cold weather. Definently have a electric water heater/warmer. Don't bother with heatlamps, all you are going to do is run up your electric bill, and possibly cause a fire. Insulation is not necessary, and alot more trouble than it's worth in a chicken coop. Lastly, DON'T shut the chickens up tight is a poorly ventilated coop in the wintertime. Make sure you provide good ventilation, MORE than you think is necessary.
Jack

 

[patman75]

Check out my BYC page and coop. No insulation, no heat lamps, great ventilation, no draft, full size door facing south. Chickens have been doing fine.

and

 

[bogwitch]

Thanks for the advice! Patman75, what does your ventilation consist of? I see the one window, is there anything else?

 

[patman75]

Quote:
The overhangs on both sides are all open and lined with hardware cloth. The chicken door faces the garage so there is minimal wind blowing into the coop fro the their door.

Check out Patandchickens ventilation page, lots of good info https://www.backyardchickens.com/web/viewblog.php?id=1642-VENTILATION