New to Chickens, building a coop. Do I need to insulate it?

[sharkerbaby]

your welcome. I will be sure to let you all know how effective it is. Parts of MI can be just as chilly. I am a somewhat familiar with the state as I graduated from MSU, lived in suburban detroit for almost 2 yrs, my ex's hometown is Ludington, and I regularly camp at Warren Dunes.

 

[Rickba]

Get cold hardy breeds. I'm not sure silkies fall in that category. Insulation will help keep coop warmer. Most important though is good ventilation, and avoid drafts. ( draft defined as wind blowing directly or semi directly to ruffle chickens feathers) Gentle air flow to remove moisture and ammonia (byproduct of chicken gumdrops) is IDEAL. Keeping water and feed outside is preferred, if you want to minimize moisture from water inside coop. Get a heated dog bowl for water like I use. During night , chickens do not need water and feed as they sleep.
On extremely cold days, if chickens do not want to go outside, then place feed and water inside. Remove for the night.
WISHING YOU BEST... and

Best explanation I've seen yet. GOOD JOB caveman.

 

[aart]

your welcome. I will be sure to let you all know how effective it is. Parts of MI can be just as chilly. I am a somewhat familiar with the state as I graduated from MSU, lived in suburban detroit for almost 2 yrs, my ex's hometown is Ludington, and I regularly camp at Warren Dunes.

Yes, we get some temperature tempering 10-15 miles from the lake but also more snow, sometimes LOTS of snow.
I escaped Metro Detroit years ago, then escaped Kalamazoo...haha!