In the process of building my coop. I have seen pictures of others where they have used white paint inside the coop. That will really help reflect the light that comes in. I'm going to use a clear plastic panel for my roof for more light. I have observed my chicks pecking on side of tub they are in now and have read chickens will peck at side of coop. So what are the opinions here is using white paint to dangerous to their health? Or is the amount they'd ever get in their mouth so small it wouldn't matter if they did peck some off? Those of you with white coops inside what has been your experience?
I painted mine, and I haven't seen my chickens trying to peck at the walls. I recommend painting the inside of your coop.
Quote:My walls are unpainted metal, and my chicks peck at them all the time, from inside and out. What state are you in? Why would you use clear plastic for the roof? They tolerate cold much better than heat. I don't think what you paint the inside of the coop with is important. Many do not paint it at all.
Yes, chickens do sometimes peck at the wall. However, unless your paint is in terrible peely shape, that is no problem at all. They can't CHEW the walls, you know? (Today's paint is not particularly toxic if dry flakes of it are eaten anyhow, not that I'm recommending you let your coop get into that sort of peely flaky state) So, prime well, then paint with a semigloss paint (several thin coats, not fewer thicker coats) and you have a water-resistant bright-looking and relatively easy-to-clean surface in there Good luck, have fun, Pat
What state are you in? Why would you use clear plastic for the roof? They tolerate cold much better than heat. Live about 40 miles out side of Seattle WA. I want maximum eggs produced. Everything I read tells me what starts them going slower is light. Using the clear roof in order to bring more light into my coop to reflect off the white walls. I will also have a light in there for the shortest days of the year besides the use of when we get into the single digits being cold. My ventilation will be quite good so not as concerned about the heat. Thanks for the other replies also!
Chickens will peck at everything.... I painted the interior of my coop and have zero regrets. Soooo easy to clean and yes, it will reflect light. It just looks nice, and that makes me happy. And you know it's all about me, right? Pat is right - make sure you prime first. This is really important. Thinner coats will last longer than thicker coats. I painted the floor too while I was at it. It's not as cold where you are, but it is wet, so I'd recommend an exterior paint, even though it's inside the coop. It will handle temperature/humidity fluxuations more than an exterior paint. Whether or not you will need a light is dependent on your location and your breed. Granted, it is pretty cloudy in Seattle. I have BOs and they laid consistently all winter without a light, even when it was -25F outside. They have a large southern window and that's it. Have fun -
