Do Chicken Coops Need Windows?

Yes, chicken coops need windows. They provide ventilation and light that will be essential to maintaining your chickens’ health over time.

So, if you’re about to buy or build a chicken coop, look for one with windows.

And if you’re already got a windowless chicken coop, break out your tools or your wallet. You’re about to add some windows or buy another coop.

Let’s look at some reason why chicken coops need windows, as well as some FAQs on the topic:

Why Chicken Coops Need Windows

You need windows on your chicken coop for a few reasons:

Ventilation

Ventilation is key to keeping your chickens healthy. And windows add ventilation to your chicken coop.

Of course, the windows have to be able to open. And, ideally, you’ll have more than one window so air can flow through the coop.

Why does this matter?

Because ventilation keeps the air fresh and clean inside the coop. 

It reduces the ability of fungus and bacteria to grow by cooling the air down and reducing moisture. 

And, of course, fresh air is great for chickens.

Warmth

In the winter, windows can actually help your chicken coop stay warm. 

They do this by creating a barrier from the cold air that can still let in sunlight. And sunlight can warm up the inside of the coop.

It’s not going to make the coop warm exactly, but it will make it warmer.

Light

Hens need lots of sunlight. And because they spend time inside the coop, you want to be able to let some light in during the day.

Windows allow light to enter the coop. That way, your chickens aren’t only getting sunlight when they’re outside the coop.

Cleaning

Windows make it easier to clean your chicken coop. 

Think about it: If the windows open, they provide nice access points for you to get your arm in there and clean up.

FAQs

Chicken coops DO need windows. But you might have some more questions to answer as you build or buy your coop. 

Here are a few FAQs on this topic:

How many windows does a chicken coop need?

Your chicken coop should have at least two windows. And they need to be on opposite sides of the coop. That way, air can flow through the coop to keep it ventilated. 

How do you put windows in a chicken coop?

You don’t have to get too fancy. If you already have a coop that doesn’t have windows, buy a couple of small windows. Cut properly sized holes in the walls of the coop and pop the windows in. Use screws to keep them secure, and make sure you cover any holes around the edges to prevent temperature problems.

Should I close chicken coop windows at night?

Yes. Close chicken coop windows at night to keep predators from climbing in. It’s fine to have the windows open for most of the day, weather permitting. But at night, close them so your chickens stay safe and sound.

Don’t chicken coops need to be dark so the hens can lay eggs?

That’s a myth. Hens don’t need darkness to lay eggs. They will lay eggs whether their coop is dark or light. In fact, more sunlight can actually improve egg quality. So, you don’t have to worry: Adding windows to your chicken coop won’t harm egg production.

Which side of the chicken coop should the windows be on?

The south-facing side. Just like in your home, the windows on your chicken coop will get more sunlight if they face south. (And more light is generally a good thing for chickens.)