Care of the Slippin' Silo nest box system is pretty simple, since it is constructed of durable plastic products.  Users should inspect each silo annually checking for problems such as, an insecure attachment to the support pole, peeling pant and possible need for nest-insert cleaning or replacement.

Each silo is shipped with one coat of Krylon Fusion spray paint applied to all exterior surfaces.  Owners are advised to add one coat of paint in a color of their preference.  Sherwin Williams Krylon Fusion paint is recommended for painting Silos because it is specifically intended for use on plastic, and does not require any sanding or priming.  Krylon Fusion paint can be found in most paint or hardware stores.  It is available in several colors, and is highly recommended for silos.  A 12 ounce can of Krylon Fusion  is enough paint to spray one coat on four silos.

If painted, lighter pastel colors should be used to reflect the sun’s rays. Reflection of the sun will help reduce inside temperatures during hot weather and will help protect the PVC from deterioration caused by UV rays.  White is alleged to attract house sparrows and is not recommended.  Darker colors will absorb too much of the sun’s energy and cause the nest box to overheat.  Dark colors should be avoided because they absorb heat from the sun's rays and may result in excessive temperatures within the nest box.

When paint is applied to a silo, avoid getting paint on its inside surface, especially if the paint is being applied with a brush (spraying is recommended).  Covering the entrance hole on the inside with masking tape (prior to painting) is recommended.  Paint on the inside surface of a silo can interfere with the smooth sliding of the nest and trap-inserts.

After an extended period of use, the "ladder" in the nest-insert may pull away from the inner wall.  It can be re-cemented with clear silicone caulking after thoroughly cleaning all surfaces.

Avoid additional fasteners through the silo wall.  Screws, bolts, nails etc., will interfere with the sliding of inserts.  If an additional fastener is deemed necessary, it should be inserted through the part of the mounting adapter that extends beyond the silo body.

When removing or replacing the vent/entrance cover on the silo, it is very important that it be slipped completely to the bottom of the silo.   If it is expanded far enough to exceed the silo’s outside diameter in order to remove it from the silo, its “springy-clamping” force may be stretched or diminished and allow it to slip down on the silo from gravitational pull.

Nest-inserts should be cleaned after each brood has fledged.  Soaking the entire insert in a container of hot soapy water with bleach added will remove most debris and stain, as well as, disinfect the insert for future use.   In the event that mites invade the silo and its contents, the nest-insert should be removed and replaced with a clean insert and nest material.  Before replacing a mite-infested nest-insert, wipe down all surfaces of the silo body with rubbing alcohol.

When tightening the bolt that attaches the silo to a post, avoid over tightening which can cause the polyethylene bushing to expand and interfere with a smooth sliding nest-insert.

 

This page was created on March1, 2004 and was last updated on March 20, 2005