What is "cold" for a chicken and prepping the coop

[Iluveggers]

I found a 20x30 air filter at lowes for $5. It should fit over my back coop window (measuring tomorrow to make sure). Does anyone think this will be a problem if I put it up in the winter to keep the wind out but still let air in? There is also air circulation in the open soffit, and a large window into the run that will not be covered because the run will be wrapped on the 2 windy sides and buffered on the other two sides.

 

[3KillerBs]

I added my last post to ask how I know I have enough ventilation?

The temperature and humidity, especially the humidity, will not be any higher inside your coop than outside.

We keep them dry and out of the wind. They keep themselves warm.

 

[NestingMillenial]

NO. Chicken's ventilation needs are measured in Sq Ft. Those little vents are measured in effective sq inches (144 of which are needed for a single sq ft), and the screen most of them are built with as insect deterrent not only reduces effective sq inch further, but they tend to plug quite quickly with the loose feather/dander/whatever always airborn in a coop.

That makes me wonder: what about mosquito screens, in your opinion? I saw a couple threads on here encouraging their use, and I was actually thinking of maybe adding some on my coop's open sections. Should I assume they will decrease effective ventilation too, you think?

It's a bit off topic as it's less about prepping for cold, but that's what we deal with for a good part of central texas "winter" -_- Maybe I should make a new thread for this question ^^

 

[Nyhillbillies]

Actually, I LIKE that idea! I'm going to have to replace the windows in my coop... and I may just do that! Thanks for planting that idea!

Also beware that windows aren’t really built to be to be put in upside down or sideways. Some windows have built in drip outlets. If put in upside down or sideways, they won’t work properly. Better to buy a window appropriate for your needs.

TIP: New windows can be purchased at deep discount from professional window installation companies. They get stuck with windows that customers ordered but changed their mind, or wrong size/color frame…. We built our Study around 6 windows previously purchased!

 

[Nyhillbillies]

Can you make a baffle for the windows? A baffle (think about a 3-sided shoot or hood) can be attached at the top of windows (outside) and extend down below the open window level. The snow, rain, wind will be slowed but still allow for fresh air without direct draft. You can also angel it down and out a bit to allow better air flow. Plexiglass is expensive but may work and still allow light to come in. You would have to get creative with making it a 3 sided structure. My first (simple) thought would be plexi on hinges at the top, and cheap window screening on the sides to keep out snow. The screened sides can be covered with landscape fabric if you needed more draft control.

I can’t picture it. What do you mean by 3-sided?

 

[Iluveggers]

I can’t picture it. What do you mean by 3-sided?

Maybe something like this but flatter and all the way down. Air can still escape but it would block the wind.

 

[Ccort]

Well, I did some adjustments. Added some small windows and now have the option to close three windows, if needed. Am going to try adding a furnace filter in one. I'm also picking up a couple of baila of straw today to add to the bedding.
We're getting our first snow tomorrow. Do you recommend applying Vaseline to their combs once the temps drop?
I am hoping I have done enough. From what I am reading, it seems that my back window needs shut for winter but my others are likely fine to be open as usual, unless there are large winds or a snow/ice storm. I am hoping I'm understanding this correctly.

 

[aart]

Am going to try adding a furnace filter in one.

What kind of filter did you get?
The blue ones are best, IMO...shown here:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/ventilation-baffling.75434/

Do you recommend applying Vaseline to their combs once the temps drop?

Absolutely not.

 

[Ccort]

New question...should I do any winterizing of the run? Not sure why I didn't think to ask that before. It's currently 20 degrees with a breeze. The run is open on all sides and leads to the coop.

 

[3KillerBs]

New question...should I do any winterizing of the run? Not sure why I didn't think to ask that before. It's currently 20 degrees with a breeze. The run is open on all sides and leads to the coop.

Many people put plastic partway up on the sides of a covered run, turning it into an extension of the coop.