Do I need a windows in my coop?

[davidjkcho]

I got 4 EE chicks 3 weeks ago and I am building my first chicken coop.
Ventilation was done under the roof using 1/2" hardware cloth.
Would that be enough for California weather or do I still need to add a window to the coop?

The floor is 3x4' and I am going to put a sheet of 5/8" plywood. Should I add two sheets of plywood to make it stronger?

 

[CaliforniaMountainChicks]

I would still add a window or two. I live in So Cal and the coop would still be a little stuffy without them. I did a Carolina coops style coop with big windows that you can open when it’s hot, and close when it’s rainy and windy. They’re across from each other on the coop to allow cross ventilation. I now live in the mountains in California so it’s cooler than the valley where I used to live but I definitely still need the windows as it still gets to 85-90 in the summer up here. Also, you’re good with just one sheet of the 5/8” plywood.
@3KillerBs is really knowledgeable about ventilation so she can probably give you a few pointers.

 

[3KillerBs]

Welcome to BYC.

The more ventilation the better, especially in a hot climate. I'm heading to bed in a few minutes so I haven't time to type much, but here are a couple articles for you.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/hot-climate-chicken-housing-and-care.77263/

https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/repecka-illustrates-coop-ventilation.77659/

 

[perkolator]

The vents under the eaves will provide some light and ventilation. Personally I think it's plenty, especially once you also have a chicken door providing light. On a wood structure like that you can always add windows later quite easily too. I'd imagine you're adding an access door to do maintenance, you could also just put a window in the door too.

For the floor I'd add two more joists across the span to support it in the middle - like your roof is supported. As for the 5/8" ply, one layer could be ok once you add in the extra joists, but if you already have extra plywood needing a project then use it up. Without more support, the plywood would definitely sag in the center over time, even doubled up.

Interesting framing with the doubled up rafters and the full expanse of hardware cloth in there. Will be totally fine for a coop build though - but if you need two 2x4s for the mentioned floor joists, I'd consider stealing them from up there. The HC only needs to cover the eaves vents and you could use the extra HC for covering a window, etc.

 

[davidjkcho]

The vents under the eaves will provide some light and ventilation. Personally I think it's plenty, especially once you also have a chicken door providing light. On a wood structure like that you can always add windows later quite easily too. I'd imagine you're adding an access door to do maintenance, you could also just put a window in the door too.

For the floor I'd add two more joists across the span to support it in the middle - like your roof is supported. As for the 5/8" ply, one layer could be ok once you add in the extra joists, but if you already have extra plywood needing a project then use it up. Without more support, the plywood would definitely sag in the center over time, even doubled up.

Interesting framing with the doubled up rafters and the full expanse of hardware cloth in there. Will be totally fine for a coop build though - but if you need two 2x4s for the mentioned floor joists, I'd consider stealing them from up there. The HC only needs to cover the eaves vents and you could use the extra HC for covering a window, etc.

Thanks. I have some leftover 2x4s for the floor.

 

[davidjkcho]

I would still add a window or two. I live in So Cal and the coop would still be a little stuffy without them. I did a Carolina coops style coop with big windows that you can open when it’s hot, and close when it’s rainy and windy. They’re across from each other on the coop to allow cross ventilation. I now live in the mountains in California so it’s cooler than the valley where I used to live but I definitely still need the windows as it still gets to 85-90 in the summer up here. Also, you’re good with just one sheet of the 5/8” plywood.
@3KillerBs is really knowledgeable about ventilation so she can probably give you a few pointers.

I am thinking about adding a window using 1/2" HC to the front, and trying to find an easy way to close and open. Maybe slide a piece of plywood from inside to close during winter.

 

[Aunt Angus]

I am thinking about adding a window using 1/2" HC to the front, and trying to find an easy way to close and open. Maybe slide a piece of plywood from inside to close during winter.

You probably don't need to close anything here in CA in winter. If you have overhang, you can (and should) leave everything open. The only reason you'd need to close anything would be to keep out snow/rain, but a louvered vent or a well placed awning-type cover will do you well. Ventilation is super important in winter, and unless you live at high elevations in CA, your temps will be relatively mild.

 

[Aunt Angus]

And opt for 1/4" HC for the window, if possible. There are things that can squeeze into 1/2" holes.

And you can always put any windows on walls that face away from your prevailing snow/rain/wind direction. Just make sure they're above the birds' heads.

 

[davidjkcho]

And opt for 1/4" HC for the window, if possible. There are things that can squeeze into 1/2" holes.

And you can always put any windows on walls that face away from your prevailing snow/rain/wind direction. Just make sure they're above the birds' heads.

What could go through 1/2 holes?
I am building my coop taller than original plan to have some flexibility.

 

[Aunt Angus]

What could go through 1/2 holes?
I am building my coop taller than original plan to have some flexibility.

Mice. Snakes. Ask me how I know.... Some folks say raccoons can reach through 1/2" HC, but I'm not sure that's a thing. But 1/2" is a thicker gage, so it's your choice. I will never do 1/2" again, personally.