Winterizing Your Chicken Coop: Simple Tips from Over 15 Years of Experience!

After raising chickens through Oklahoma winters for more than 15 years, one thing has become clear: your chickens don’t need heavy insulation or added heat—but they do need protection from drafts.

Chickens are naturally cold-hardy, but cold air blowing directly on them can cause serious problems. Your main goal is to block drafts while still allowing proper ventilation up high where the walls meet the ceiling.

Here are some materials I’ve used over the years to keep my coops draft-proof:

• Plastic sheeting

• Feed bags

• Plywood

• Curtains

• Shower curtains

• Blankets

• Canvas

  
  

I also like to spray fabric materials with a waterproofing spray to help them last all season. Make it a habit to check for loose spots, gaps, or holes and patch them as needed. Adding a thick layer of shavings to the floor also helps create a cozy, comfortable environment for your flock.

And trust me—a tack hammer and a bag of zip ties will quickly become your best friends during this process!

Good luck and happy farming!

Joanna Starkey

NRR Hatchery