Too Much Sun ?

[Hetken1]

Hi, I'm just getting into having my new friends. I will have 6 ladies and will custom build my coop and run. Because of code restrictions (I have to be 15" from any property line) so I will need to construct my coop facing South/West, which will put it in direct sunlight from noon to setting sun. I have read this is not desirable. Can anyone advise?
Ken

 

[nchls school]

Hi, I'm just getting into having my new friends. I will have 6 ladies and will custom build my coop and run. Because of code restrictions (I have to be 15" from any property line) so I will need to construct my coop facing South/West, which will put it in direct sunlight from noon to setting sun. I have read this is not desirable. Can anyone advise?
Ken

If you are in a cooler climate facing south and west may be advantageous. Windows can have shades on them. There are fast growing plants that could be used for shade. Insulation can also be used as it not only keeps heat in but also keeps heat out. Be sure to use materials that won't make the coop hotter-like metal and black roofing. While not desirable, there are ways to make a south-west facing coop work.

 

[rosemarythyme]

How hot does it get where you're at? If you have a mild climate overall, the sun shouldn't be an issue, but if it gets hot or extremely hot where you're at, then heat is a big problem and you'll need to try to mitigate that by providing plenty of shade. Chickens can start panting around 85F and start having heat distress at 95, 100+.

 

[Hetken1]

I live just above NYC. Summer temps are 80/90. I can provide a small section of the run that is always shade (North side of the house). The main door opening would have to also fase S/W. I will include a fan near the roof to keep air moving. Of course this will be nice in the winter.
I have another question of the run in the snow. What are the concerns.
Thanks all for your help
Ken

 

[rosemarythyme]

I have another question of the run in the snow. What are the concerns.
Thanks all for your help
Ken

Have a roof that can support the snow load. Or if a roof is not in the plans, then you better be planning to do a lot of shoveling to keep some outdoor space open, or the chickens may choose to hole up indoors during snow season (which will then require a larger coop as cabin fever gets to chickens too).