Nestera Penthouse Chicken Coop Review

Nestera Penthouse Chicken Coop Review

When investing in a chicken coop, finding the right balance between comfort for your hens and convenience for you as a keeper is essential. The Nestera Penthouse Chicken Coop builds on the trusted design of Nestera’s other models but raises the entire structure higher off the ground, creating valuable sheltered space beneath. In this expert review, we take a deep dive into the design, benefits, and real-world experience of using the Penthouse model, helping you decide whether it is the right choice for your flock.

Distinctive elevated design
The Nestera Penthouse is essentially the highest version of Nestera’s recycled plastic coop range. While the internal coop structure remains broadly similar to the Nestera Chicken House and Lodge models, the Penthouse offers a generous 45cm of ground clearance. This seemingly simple feature brings several important advantages that appeal to both chickens and keepers.

From the chickens’ perspective, the sheltered area beneath the coop offers a safe, dry, and shaded space they will naturally seek out in hot or wet weather. It also provides natural protection from wind, rain and direct sun, helping to moderate temperature extremes throughout the year.

For keepers, the raised height significantly improves access. Routine tasks like collecting eggs, inspecting nest boxes, or cleaning out droppings are made much easier as less bending or crouching is required. Particularly for those who keep chickens as part of their daily routine, this improved ergonomics makes a big difference over time.

Materials and long-term durability
As with all Nestera models, the Penthouse is built entirely from 100% recycled plastic. This gives it several major advantages over traditional wooden coops:

  • It does not rot, warp or degrade over time
  • It is unaffected by damp, frost or extreme temperatures
  • Cleaning is simple and effective, with surfaces that can be fully washed down
  • The smooth plastic panels discourage the build-up of dirt, bacteria and parasites

For keepers in the UK where wet weather can make wooden coops deteriorate quickly, the recycled plastic build is particularly valuable. It ensures the Penthouse remains solid and hygienic for many years, making it a genuine long-term investment.

Sizes and flock suitability
Nestera offers the Penthouse in three sizes, catering for a wide range of flock sizes:

  • Small: up to 2 large hens, 3 medium or 5 bantams
  • Medium: up to 3 large hens, 5 medium or 9 bantams
  • Large: up to 5 large hens, 8 medium or 12-15 bantams

For new keepers, it is important to note that giving birds adequate space reduces stress, helps maintain clean conditions, and supports healthy laying. Always size your coop not just for the birds you have today, but with a little extra room for comfort.

Ventilation and climate control
Good ventilation is critical for any chicken coop. Poor airflow leads to moisture build-up, respiratory problems and unpleasant odours. Nestera have designed adjustable vents into the Penthouse to allow keepers to regulate airflow according to flock size and seasonal weather.

In colder months, vents can be partially closed to retain warmth, while in summer, they can be fully opened to allow cooling breezes to circulate. This flexibility is especially useful in the UK’s variable climate, where temperature swings can occur even within the same day.

Red mite resistance and parasite control
One of the biggest headaches for chicken keepers is red mite infestation, which is notoriously hard to eradicate from timber coops. The Penthouse’s recycled plastic panels offer far fewer hiding places for mites. Smooth, non-porous surfaces mean routine cleaning can remove mites before they take hold.

While no coop can fully prevent red mite, the Penthouse significantly reduces the risk, making management far easier for the hobbyist keeper. For additional peace of mind, regular inspections and appropriate mite treatments remain good practice.

Cleaning and maintenance
Ease of cleaning is one of the most practical advantages of the Penthouse design. The rear access door opens wide, allowing thorough cleaning of perches, nest boxes and the coop floor. The roof panels are fully removable, allowing deep cleaning and full interior access without dismantling the structure.

Because of the elevated design, the base of the coop stays drier than ground-level models, even in heavy rain. Feeders and drinkers stored underneath also remain protected, reducing mess and spoilage.

For keepers who dislike the laborious cleaning often associated with wooden coops, the Penthouse offers one of the lowest-maintenance solutions on the market.

Weather protection year-round
The Penthouse has been thoughtfully designed for year-round weather protection. The raised platform keeps the flock above damp or muddy ground during periods of prolonged rain, while the sheltered under-coop area offers protection from summer heat. Combined with its solid build, well-fitting doors and adjustable vents, the Penthouse delivers excellent comfort across all seasons.

Keeper experience and usability
Many keepers who have upgraded to the Penthouse model report that it makes daily flock management significantly easier. Tasks like egg collection and inspections can be done quickly, even in bad weather. The elevation also helps keep the keeper’s boots cleaner, as the under-coop area remains drier than surrounding ground.

The Penthouse also integrates easily with automatic coop door systems, many of which are compatible with Nestera’s design, allowing for fully automated flock access and additional convenience for busy owners.

Summing Up
The Nestera Penthouse Chicken Coop delivers an excellent combination of practical design, long-term durability and daily convenience. Its elevated structure not only benefits your hens with added shelter and comfort but also makes your routine chicken keeping easier and cleaner. For anyone looking for a raised coop solution that offers genuine long-term value, the Penthouse is one of the best options currently available. For more information, vist the Nestera Penthouse Chicken Coop page.

Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Kevin O'Hara

Kevin O’Hara got his first chickens back in 1972. A backyard chicken keeper based in Yorkshire, he created of KeepingChickens.uk back in 2012. With years of hands-on experience, he shares practical, UK-specific advice to help others care for happy, healthy hens. Learn more about Kevin on the author page.

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