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Whether you are building a coop from scratch or looking to upgrade your existing one, finding affordable windows is a crucial aspect of ensuring the safety, health, and comfort of your feathered friends. Here are some practical tips and suggestions to help you find inexpensive windows for your chicken coop.
Check out online retailers
When looking for affordable windows for your chicken coop, one of the best places to start is by checking out online retailers. Not only do they offer a wide range of options, but they also make it easy to compare prices and features from the comfort of your own home.
Popular online retailers like Amazon and eBay offer a great selection of windows for different purposes and budgets. Some retailers even specialize in providing windows specifically for sheds, greenhouses, or chicken coops. When shopping for windows online, it’s important to look for ones that are durable, easy to install, and made of materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
One type of window that is often recommended for chicken coops is playhouse windows. These windows are designed to provide ventilation, insulation, and natural light while keeping predators and pests out. They are also reasonably priced, with some models starting from under $50. Playhouse windows come in various sizes and shapes, including round, rectangular, and octagonal, so you can choose the one that fits your coop design and style.
When shopping for windows online, it’s important to read the product descriptions carefully and check the reviews from other buyers. This will give you a better idea of the quality, durability, and ease of installation of the windows you are interested in.
In addition to Amazon and eBay, there are many other online retailers that offer affordable windows for chicken coops, including Home Depot, Lowe’s, Wayfair, and Walmart. By comparing prices and features from different online retailers, you can find the best deal on coop windows and save money on your chicken coop project.
However, it’s important to note that while online shopping can be convenient and cost-effective, it’s also important to factor in the cost of shipping and handling when making your final decision. Be sure to compare the total cost of the windows, including shipping and handling, to ensure you are getting the best deal possible.
Look for second-hand or recycled windows
When it comes to building a chicken coop, every little expense adds up, which is why finding inexpensive windows is crucial. One great way to save money and reduce waste is to look for second-hand or recycled windows. These types of windows are often available in a variety of styles, sizes, and materials, so you’re bound to find something that suits your coop’s needs.
Thrift stores and ReStores are excellent places to look for used windows. ReStores, in particular, are a great resource as they specialize in donated building materials and may have a large selection of windows in different sizes and styles. Another great option is salvage yards, which often have a wide variety of used windows salvaged from old buildings or homes. You may be able to find unique windows with character that can add a touch of personality to your coop.
Online marketplaces such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Freecycle are also excellent places to look for used windows. People often give away or sell their old windows for a fraction of the cost of new ones, and you may even find custom sizes or shapes that fit your coop’s design. It’s important to exercise caution when buying from online marketplaces, however, as you want to ensure that the windows you purchase are in good condition and suitable for your coop’s needs.
In addition to being a cost-effective solution, using recycled or second-hand windows is an eco-friendly option. By reusing materials that would otherwise end up in a landfill, you’re reducing waste and helping the environment. Plus, many older windows are made of durable materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions, making them a practical and sustainable choice for your chicken coop.
When searching for second-hand windows, keep in mind that you may need to do some extra work to ensure they fit your coop’s dimensions and are installed properly. You may need to trim the windows or add framing to ensure a secure fit. But with a little extra effort, you can save money and reduce waste while still creating a functional and attractive chicken coop.
DIY your windows
If you have some DIY skills and enjoy creating things with your hands, making your own windows can be a fun and rewarding project. This option allows you to customize the windows to your coop’s size, shape, and design, and also to use recycled or repurposed materials that may be cheaper or more eco-friendly than new ones.
For example, you can use plexiglass, acrylic, tempered glass, or even recycled bottles or jars to make the window panes. You can also use old window frames, scrap wood, or metal pieces to create the frames, hinges, or latches.
However, keep in mind that making windows from scratch requires some planning, measurement, and precision, as well as some basic tools such as a saw, a drill, and a screwdriver. You may also need to seal the edges with caulk or weatherstripping to ensure a snug fit and prevent air leaks or water infiltration.
Ask for donations or discounts
Another way to find inexpensive windows for your chicken coop is to reach out to your local community and ask for donations or discounts. This is a great option for those who are on a tight budget or want to save money. If you are part of a farming or chicken-raising community, you can ask other members if they have any spare windows that they are willing to donate or sell at a discounted price. You can also post your request on social media platforms or community bulletin boards to reach a wider audience.
Another option is to approach local businesses such as hardware stores, lumber yards, or construction companies and ask if they have any surplus or unused windows that they are willing to donate or sell at a discounted price. Be specific about your needs and explain the purpose of the windows, so they understand the importance of your request. You can also offer to promote their business or write a positive review in exchange for their generosity.
If you have a particular skill or product that may be of value to someone, you can offer to trade it for windows. For example, if you are a carpenter or a handyman, you can offer to build a coop or a nesting box for someone who gives you windows. This is a win-win situation, as you get the windows you need, and they get a valuable service or product.
Be creative and resourceful
To save money and add some character to your chicken coop, get creative with your windows. Look around your house or yard for unused items that can be repurposed into functional windows. For example, old dryer or washer doors can make great windows because they are already tempered and can withstand heat and moisture. Simply clean them and attach them securely to your coop. Similarly, old storm windows, vinyl basement windows, or antique wood windows can be found at second-hand stores or online marketplaces and can add a rustic or vintage touch to your coop.
Another option is to repurpose non-window items such as old mirrors, shower doors, or picture frames into windows. Mirrors can reflect sunlight and create an illusion of space, while shower doors can be cut and fitted to your coop openings. Picture frames can be transformed into small windows by replacing the glass with plexiglass or chicken wire. Just make sure that the materials you use are safe for your chickens and do not pose any risk of injury or harm.
When repurposing materials, it’s important to consider their durability, insulation, and security. Make sure that the windows you create are weather-resistant and can keep your chickens warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Use materials that are easy to clean and maintain, and that provide adequate ventilation and natural light. You can also add screens or mesh to your windows to keep predators and pests out.
Conclusion
Finding inexpensive windows for a chicken coop requires some research, creativity, and resourcefulness. By considering different options such as online retailers, second-hand or recycled windows, DIY projects, donations or discounts, and creative materials, you can save money, reduce waste, and provide your chickens with a healthy and comfortable environment. Just remember to prioritize safety, functionality, and durability when choosing or making your windows, and enjoy the process of creating a cozy and welcoming coop for your feathered friends.
