condensation in the coop any ideas

[tlck9]

I noticed today some condensation on the walls of the chicken coop. they are shut in at night and have 5 inch holes at the top front of the coop which is sheltered.

I'm worried this will spark colds in the winter.

I used to cover them with a horse blanket as its pretty dire near the moors here in the window

[RichmondHens]

Condensation in itself won't produce colds but will lead to a permanently damp coop if the weather turns colder and the coop doesn't dry out during the day which may lead to mould being produced which is not healthy. I suspect you need to provide a little more ventilation by way of more holes round the sides. Five birds shouldn't really steam up the house to that extent. I suggest that you don't cover the coop with anything either. Five birds snuggled together will keep each other warm.

[tlck9]

thanks richmond, I shall see if I can get a couple more holes in there. The coop is big enough to house 10-15 chucks but I've lost a couple so there are only 8 now

[Hilary B]

Best to provide THROUGH ventilation. If it's all on one side it doesn't work as well, if it is on opposite sides, smaller vents will provide a more effective air flow.

[merlin]

I was wondering what your coup was made of?

[tlck9]

its made of soft wood and then treated with a timber preservative (suitable for coops), Didn't want to use felt so I sprayed the roof with a storm protector this summer to keep it from leaking....

I shall try putting a few smaller holes opposite the others and hopefully that will give a decent air flow

I tend to give the coop a wipe over each morning at the moment

[merlin]

Its it well of the ground? We had the same problem with out first one. We cut 3 inches of the top and and inch off the bottom of the door, and raised it 6" from the ground. It stopped, perhaps or was air flow or damp, or both?