Cooped up in comfort

An article in the New York Times calls the growth of backyard chicken coops a “chicken boomlet,” fueled by self-reliant people spooked by the recession; advocates of healthy, locally grown food; and parents who see chickens as teaching tools and entertainment for children.

A client requested Juli Woods, president of The Right Angle Marine, Greenville, S.C., to design, fabricate and install panels to insulate and reduce drafts in two chicken coops. Chickens needed access during their active hours and protection at night; the client needed a lightweight, rugged and easy-to-clean solution that could be stored when not in use. Woods selected Herculite Riviera Marine Fabric®, made by Herculite Inc., Emigsville, Pa., because the engineered vinyl featured controlled stretch to ease fabrication, environmentally friendly coatings that provide mildew and UV resistance, and ruggedness tested in harsh marine environments.

The Right Angle Marine developed a custom-fit system of vinyl panels with DOT® snaps from Scovill Fasteners, Clarksville, Ga. Dacron® polyester sail tape added structure to the edges and reinforcement for the fasteners. The panels snap open to allow access and snap shut after the chickens are in for the night. The top cover above the nesting boxes snaps open for egg collection and cleaning, and during warmer months, the panels fold up into a small space.