Winter Chicken Coop: 7 Tips for Winterizing Your Coop

TL;DR: Keep your flock safe and warm this winter with these practical coop prep strategies. Learn how to insulate, protect, and prepare your birds for the cold:

1. Add deep bedding for natural insulation
2. Block drafts, but maintain ventilation
3. Insulate coop walls and roof
4. Use safe, minimal heating if needed
5. Prevent water from freezing
6. Create a windbreak around the run
7. Feed a high-protein winter diet

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Your flock depends on you to stay warm in the chilly, damp winter months. A well-prepped winter chicken coop is essential for helping your backyard birds survive the dark, cold nights to come.

Believe it or not, there are ways to keep a chicken coop warm in winter without relying on expensive heating systems. We've created this guide to share simple tips that will help you create a cozy, cold-weather haven for your hens!

Read on to discover 7 practical chicken coop ideas for winter to help protect your flock from the chill.

1. Add Extra Bedding for Insulation

First, use deep bedding to create a thick, insulating layer on the floor of your coop.

Our favorite winter-friendly bedding materials include:

• Dry straw
• Pine shavings
• Hemp bedding

As these materials break down, they produce some natural heat. This is a tried and true DIY winter chicken coop tip. It keeps backyard birds toasty warm by reducing drafts from below.

2. Block Drafts But Maintain Ventilation

It’s essential to block cold drafts, but remember to focus on drafts at chicken level, not human level! Still, be sure to allow for ventilation near the roof.

Why? Moisture buildup from droppings can cause frostbite and respiratory problems in chickens. Before winter, seal gaps in the coop with weatherproof foam or caulk. We also recommend covering windows with clear plastic to let in light while keeping out the harsh, cold air.

3. Insulate Coop Walls and Roof

Proper insulation is important, but you don’t need to fully remodel your coop. We've had success adding foam boards and straw bales to keep heat in. In a pinch, even old blankets between coop walls will help a ton. Small upgrades like these are key factors in keeping a chicken coop warm in winter.

4. Use Safe Heating Options If Necessary

For many chicken owners, introducing heaters can be stressful due to safety risks. Most backyard chickens are fairly hearty. Thus, in the majority of cases, you shouldn't need an electric heat source.

If you live in an extremely cold climate, however, you may need to consider how to heat a chicken coop in winter. Instead of hazardous lamps, try a flat-panel radiant heater or heated perch. If you prefer to use a safety lamp, only use one equipped with a safety switch. Following manufacturers' guidelines is crucial to ensure the safety of your chickens.

5. Protect the Water Supply

Frozen water is a very common winter problem. We recommend using heated waterers or placing standard ones on a heated base. This ensures your flock stays hydrated even when temperatures plunge.

6. Create a Windbreak Around the Run

Chickens love to be outside, even in cold weather. Try creating a windbreak around the run to shield birds from harsh winds. Tarps or plastic sheeting typically do the trick.

7. Prep Your Flock for Cold Weather

Knowing how to prepare chickens for cold weather goes beyond coop prep. As winter approaches, begin feeding your birds a high-protein diet. The proper feed ensures your backyard birds remain hearty and healthy all winter long.

Winter-proof Your Coop with Supplies from Stromberg’s

Winter-proof your coop with the best gear! Check out our poultry supplies to keep your flock cozy all season!