Protecting run in winter

[rosemarythyme]

How do you guys know which direction the wind usually blows in from?

I actually talked to my neighbors about it when we first moved here, since I figured someone with 22 years at the location would be more aware of wind direction than us.

With that initial info and a bit of time to confirm it, the coop and stuff inside the run were all oriented to try and blunt as much of the wind as possible - it helped a lot when figuring out placement of an outside brooder for example, or covered outdoor feed station.

 

[Happy Helper]

On the subject of what to use for covering a chicken run,
I just ordered 4 mil plastic sheeting. Last year I had 6 mil but was hoping that the 4 mil might be a little clearer. Did I make a mistake ordering 4 mil instead of 6? I am in Ohio so we don't seem to get really extreme wind but one never knows! What do you think, will be 4 mil be strong enough?

 

[moconnell]

Can you explain the method for the sand/water?

Sure, yeah - its passive solar heating at a tiny scale for a small space.; Water or Sand inside the black bucket collects and retains heat a bit longer and seems to keep the ambient air of the coop area a bit warmer into the evening (according to my gauges). I only use a few buckets (leftovers from driveway sealing) but bigger 55 gal drums can work as well for this.

 

[SmiYa0126]

Sure, yeah - its passive solar heating at a tiny scale for a small space.; Water or Sand inside the black bucket collects and retains heat a bit longer and seems to keep the ambient air of the coop area a bit warmer into the evening (according to my gauges). I only use a few buckets (leftovers from driveway sealing) but bigger 55 gal drums can work as well for this.

Thank you! @moconnell