Building chicken coops for cold weather?

Chicken coops for colder weather need to be draft free and dry. There is no real need for heavy insulation as long as wind chill and dampness are controlled. A few good size (100watt+) light bulbs will radiate enough heat to keep the flock comfortable. Roosts need to be at least 18 inches off the floor or higher for light breeds. Heavy breed hens will have difficulty getting higher. A good base of straw or wood chips on the floor will help hold heat in. Water containers need to be ice free and food dishes off the ground in deep covered floors for easy access.