All paint finished both internally and externally with a four coats of silk white “Zinsser” preparation to afford maximum weathering without staining or fading.

Adverse weather versus the materials and finish of a dovecote will play a major part in determining the dovecotes longevity. I based the question of size on the fact that when 2 x chicks were on the balcony one of them occasionally fell, or more likely got pushed off. Many ancient manors in France and England have a dovecote (still standing or in ruins) in one section of the manorial enclosure or in nearby fields. In my opinion the dovecote roof is the perfect roosting spot, and very practical, so why not make it comfortable for them and have a roof designed for roosting on!

You can change your choices at any time by visiting Cookie preferences, as described in the Cookie notice. Bearing in mind that the floorboards are the features that deteriorate most in a dovecote replaceable floors make it truly practicable. Painted in antique white, it's topped off by a beautifully finished roof with individually hand-carved timber shingles. If using paint and you want it to have a long life then you must religiously follow the instructions on the tin; e. My local supplier sells 18mm thick sheets that are 'Grade BB'; this grade means that both sides could have joints, large knots and plugs (patched defects).

The idea being that young chicks could grip the edge with their toes and thus prevent premature falls.

This larger size is, in my opinion, only acceptable if the habitation does not have removable panels: the reason being that you will need that size aperture to extract a dove or an old nest etc.