Can’t understand venting vs drafts

[Tracyree]

My coop is 6x8 with two windows on front (8’ side) and a 4’ long x 8” “vent” on the back wall above the roost. I have the windows installed upside down so I can crack the tops to vent in winter.

How much of the back vent should I cover in winter? Should I do something else? We are in Middle Tennessee.

 

[nuthatched]

For the windows, leave them open about 3/4 inches and leave the vents open. Nice coop.

 

[BigBlueHen53]

VERY nice coop!
Move over, I'm moving in!

 

[Tracyree]

For the windows, leave them open about 3/4 inches and leave the vents open. Nice coop.

Thank you!

 

[Tracyree]

VERY nice coop!
Move over, I'm moving in!

Thanks you! . There’s plenty of space for you.

 

[BigBlueHen53]

Simply put, a draft is a breeze that blows on the chickens, ruffling their feathers and interfering with the way their feathers insulate them from the cold. Venting, in contrast, is air flow above the birds that allows ammonia from decomposing feces or moisture from the birds' respirations to rise and escape, thus preventing frostbite from forming on the birds' combs and wattles. Chickens can tolerate surprisingly low temperatures as long as they stay dry. It's condensation - moisture - that causes damage. I hope this makes sense.

Edited for clarity.