Too early to take down plastic wind block?

[JoeInPA]

Our high temps have been in the high 40s, 50s and even low 60s for the past week or so. Lows are still in the mid to low 30s, but that's at night when the chickens are in the coop. I'm wondering if I can take down some of my winter wind block plastic, either partially or entirely now? I'd like to see the chickens and I'm sure they'd like to see out of their 8x8 cube. Too early or should I go for it?

 

[Wee Farmer Sarah]

Hi Joe, I was thinking the same thing and I'm a lot farther north. I use shower curtains on my run and string them on rope so I can pull them back on warm days. Yours look pretty easy to put back up if you have a cold snap sneak in, so I say go for it. If this is your first time with this, you'll get a chuckle with your flocks reaction to having a clear view again.

 

[JoeInPA]

Hi Joe, I was thinking the same thing and I'm a lot farther north. I use shower curtains on my run and string them on rope so I can pull them back on warm days. Yours look pretty easy to put back up if you have a cold snap sneak in, so I say go for it. If this is your first time with this, you'll get a chuckle with your flocks reaction to having a clear view again.

Thanks Sarah, we've had an incredibly mild winter this year. The shower curtains sound like a good idea. I'm still in my first year with chickens so I'm still figuring out what does and doesn't work. This 4 mil plastic worked well but I did have to staple it back up a couple times and I think its probably one time use. I think I'll probably take down one or two sides and see how it goes. Can't wait to see the reaction haha!

 

[Wee Farmer Sarah]

Thanks Sarah, we've had an incredibly mild winter this year. The shower curtains sound like a good idea. I'm still in my first year with chickens so I'm still figuring out what does and doesn't work. This 4 mil plastic worked well but I did have to staple it back up a couple times and I think its probably one time use. I think I'll probably take down one or two sides and see how it goes. Can't wait to see the reaction haha!

The shower curtains have lasted 2 winters and they still look good for another year or two at least.

 

[JoeInPA]

I pulled down 2 1/2 sides and they seem to be enjoying it. I like being able to see them from the window.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Your temps are fine, I'm sure the chickens appreciate being able to see out now!

 

[aart]

Way to go Joe.. ..now it's gonna snow 2'!!
JK... mostly

 

[K0k0shka]

Way to go Joe.. ..now it's gonna snow 2'!!
JK... mostly

I'm actually considering not winter-proofing my new run at all in an attempt to invoke some snow next winter. We barely got any this winter and my kids are not happy Less work for me!

 

[21hens-incharge]

An idea for future winterizing that may work for you.....

On my hoop run I put 1/2 inch pvc and use greenhouse clips to hold my plastic on. In nice weather I can raise the sides easily and just as easy to lower when snow is coming.
sides down
sides up
the clip

 

[Wee Farmer Sarah]

It’s easier and makes more sense to be prepared then for those of you with day jobs to have to hustle to care of your chickens at the last minute. And it’s not just snow you are prepping for it’s cold blasts of wind and ice. Good job @JoeInPA.