Roost/Window Location

[GoldenSlumbers]

Hello all, new member here!
I'm nearly finished building a 4x8 walk-in coop, but now I'm getting to the phase of worrying about the details...

Where should the roosts be placed in reference to windows/lighting?
There are lots of tall trees to the east and south close by, so the area has shaded/filtered light from sunrise until just before sunset. Virtually no direct sunlight.
...and after typing that last statement, I realized that roost placement probably doesn't matter much in my situation lol. But I guess I'll ask anyway... what would you do with window/roost/nest etc. orientation in this situation?

Thanks!

 

[Jimmy W]

Put the roost over a poop board, you will be very thankful you did that. On placement, I think as long as you can place it over a poop board and it works in the layout, does not matter where the windows are in relation to the roost. Chickens will only sleep on the roosts at night. Draft free is also important for the roost area.

 

[StinkyAcres]

Are these windows able to be opened and closed? If you plan to close them at all due to inclement weather, do you have other ways to adequately ventilate the coop?

 

[aart]

what would you do with window/roost/nest etc. orientation in this situation?

I wouldn't even guess unless I knew what your climate is(add geographical location to your profile) and seeing your coop all around inside and out.
Are those trees evergreen or deciduous?

 

[GoldenSlumbers]

Are these windows able to be opened and closed? If you plan to close them at all due to inclement weather, do you have other ways to adequately ventilate the coop?

The windows are next to be installed. I'm using sashes that will tilt open for the 'clear' windows. For ventilation, there are 6 inch "clerestory" openings with flaps that can closed on the 4' walls, gable-end vents with at least one duct fan, as well as open rafters under the eaves. It's all on the upper part of the coop. Should I have more ventilation lower down?

I wouldn't even guess unless I knew what your climate is(add geographical location to your profile) and seeing your coop all around inside and out.
Are those trees evergreen or deciduous?

Duh, I guess that would have helped! I'm in central Virginia and most of the trees are deciduous, but very dense. I'll get some better pics of the coop soon, but here's a Google Earth image that actually shows the early construction of the coop. (it sat unfinished for a while due to personal stuff...) The view is from the North. The trees on the right (east) are tall with only foliage near the top, and it's been thinned out since then.
My biggest concern is the lack of light being in such a shaded spot. I'm assuming supplemental lighting will be needed.

 

[aart]

I'm using sashes that will tilt open for the 'clear' windows.

How do they tilt? Hopefully top hinged so they provide shelter from rain.

My biggest concern is the lack of light being in such a shaded spot.

Nah, they're not plants, don't need direct sun.
Those trees will provide essential shade in summer to keep temps down, then shed their leaves in winter for sunlight exposure.

I'll get some better pics of the coop soon,

Yeah, that would be good.

 

[ChaosMom]

…Those trees will provide essential shade in summer to keep temps down, then shed their leaves in winter for sunlight exposure…

And endless entertainment and exploration for the girls when the leaves are dumped in the run!

 

[GoldenSlumbers]

How do they tilt? Hopefully top hinged so they provide shelter from rain.

Yep!

Nah, they're not plants, don't need direct sun.

Lol I should've been more specific. I'm concerned about morning light/sunrise for the layers. First light is very dim for a while and I've read somewhere that sunrise exposure is pretty important.
Like I said before, I'm overthinking things lol I just want everyone to be happy and healthy.

 

[aart]

I'm concerned about morning light/sunrise for the layers. First light is very dim for a while and I've read somewhere that sunrise exposure is pretty important.
Like I said before, I'm overthinking things lol I just want everyone to be happy and healthy.

They'll be fine, they can still detect the changing light as morning dawns.

 

[KyCoop]

My only concern about windows is roof overhang that will shelter from blowing rain.
So many posts on here about "my chickens won't use their roost" and it's because rain is blowing in on them.

Windows and screen doors are fantastic for the summer but must be sure rain won't come in.