Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Box Assembly
Box assembly is a straightforward task. Make sure the handles are all right side up and
on the outside of the box before you glue and fasten them together. Two styles of joints
are used to fasten the corners of the box together. Most common is the box or finger
joint; less common is the lap, or rabbet joint. Both work well and are easy to assemble.
Joints can be glued or secured with screws so damaged sides can be replaced later.
The box must be square when assembled. Some have metal frame rests in a few shapes
to keep the bee space inside the box correct. If you don't install these rests, the space
above the frames will be too big and the bees will fill them with comb, and the space
below too small and propolis will always be in the way. Disregard the metal supports at
your peril.
Finish the assembled box with a primer coat and two coats of latex paint or a few
coats of stain. The colors you choose can camouflage your colonies, or announce their
presence.
Consider using a frame assembly jig that holds the pieces in place so you can hammer
together 10 frames at a time.
Beehives need protection from the elements. Two to three coats of paint or stain works
well. Be sure to cover the exposed ends and the handholds, too.
Three sizes of frames: (front) fully drawn shallow frame; (middle) medium wooden frame
with plastic foundation; (back) all-plastic, one-piece deep frame and foundation with
wax applied.
