{"id":4322,"date":"2023-12-24T06:33:14","date_gmt":"2023-12-24T11:33:14","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/?p=4322"},"modified":"2023-12-27T18:44:38","modified_gmt":"2023-12-27T23:44:38","slug":"best-beginner-beehive","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/best-beginner-beehive\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Type Of Beehive For Beginners (And Why)"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"last-modified\">Updated on December 27th, 2023<\/p>\n<p>Beginning beekeepers need to choose what type of hive they wish to use. There are three main types of hives: <strong>Langstroth, Warr\u00e8 (pronounced WAR-ray), and Top Bar hives<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Langstroth and Warr\u00e8 hives consist of vertically stacked boxes. Top Bar hives are single-body horizontal hives. There are other forms of horizontal hives also.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<p><strong>The best type of beehive for beginning beekeepers is the Langstroth hive<\/strong>. <strong>Due to its wide popularity and modular design, Langstroth hives have important advantages over other types of beehives:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Many equipment suppliers;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>More beekeepers available to assist with advice or mentoring;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Greater honey yield potential by adding boxes;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Interchangeable boxes and similar sizing among manufacturers;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Multiple methods for honey extraction; and,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Easy transfer of comb, brood, and food stores between hives as needed.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<p><strong>Langstroth hives have certain disadvantages that may warrant an alternative choice by beginning beekeepers.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Langstroth boxes full of bees and honey can weigh between 50 and 90 pounds, which may be undesirable to anyone lacking the physical strength to handle them.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Langstroth beekeepers need storage space for equipment not in use (such as during winter), making them potentially unsuitable for those with limited space.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we will explain the Langstroth hive in detail. We also discuss why you might prefer a Warr\u00e8 hive or some type of horizontal hive when you <a href=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/start-beekeeping-2\/\">start beekeeping<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What Is A Langstroth Hive<\/strong>?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Langstroth hives consist of rectangular boxes of identical length and width. This permits vertical stacking. Frames set inside the hive provide a location for wax comb building. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p>According to Wikipedia, <a aria-label=\"Rev. L. L. Langstroth (opens in a new tab)\" class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/L._L._Langstroth\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Rev. L. L. Langstroth<\/a><strong> \u201c<\/strong>is considered to be the father of American beekeeping.\u201d He wrote <strong><em>Langstroth&#8217;s Hive and the Honey-Bee: The Classic Beekeeper&#8217;s Manual <\/em><\/strong>(<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/0486433846\/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=fireflyfields-20&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=0486433846&amp;linkId=a90c637bb4f20d28ab1dfabb891c0f53\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored\">available here<\/a><\/strong> on Amazon).<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>About Bee Space<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Langstroth is often credited with discovering \u201c<strong>bee space<\/strong>\u201d. <strong>Bee space is that distance of 3\/8 of an inch where bees can travel but will not build comb<\/strong>. Designed with all the parts based on bee space, the Langstroth hive is completely modular.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<p>Generally, bee space is provided:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>between the frames and the hive walls;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>between frames in the lower box and the bottom board;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>between two frames;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>between frame bottom bars in one box and top bars in another; and,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>between the top bars of the upper box and the inner cover.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>You will find some cases where bees violate the bee space with comb, but this is usually a minor problem. Strip such &#8220;burr comb&#8221; away with a hive tool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Langstroth Hive Components<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>From the bottom up, a Langstroth hive consists of the following components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Bottom Board<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A <strong>bottom board<\/strong> provides a base and entrance to the hive. Bottom boards can be solid or screened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Screened bottoms can be opened or closed with a corrogated plastic board. Screened boards help with ventilation when open. Closed boards catch mites and other debris from the hive for inspection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The bottom board should be set on a stand to keep it off the ground and away from moisture or certain predators (like skunks and raccoons).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An<strong> entrance reducer<\/strong> is used on the bottom board to vary the entrance size from time to time, as needed. Reducing the entrance gives the colony a smaller opening to defend against invaders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Hive Bodies<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Atop the bottom board sits <strong>one or more hive bodies<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hive bodies are 19&#8243; long to accommodate frames (described below). The width of a body varies on whether it holds 10, 8, or 5 frames.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<p>Three main depths determine what size frames to use:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Deep boxes (9-5\/8\u201d) for the brood and some of its food stores.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Medium boxes (also called supers \u2013 6-5\/8\u201d) for brood and\/or honey to be harvested.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shallow supers (5-11\/16\u201d) only for honey to be harvested.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p>Detailed size specifications are found on Wikipedia at <strong><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Langstroth_hive\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Langstroth Hive<\/a> <\/strong>if you\u2019re interested.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"668\" src=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/Blue-hives-large-1024x668.jpg\" alt=\"10 frame hive boxes and screened bottom board\" class=\"wp-image-42\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/Blue-hives-large-1024x668.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/Blue-hives-large-300x196.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/Blue-hives-large-768x501.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/Blue-hives-large-1080x704.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/Blue-hives-large.jpg 1900w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">10 frame hive boxes (2 deep, 1 medium super) with a telescoping cover alongside a screened bottom board<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In a Langstroth hive, brood rearing is generally confined to the lower boxes.  The upper boxes are for honey. That\u2019s why <strong>a common arrangement is 2 deep boxes on the bottom with medium supers above. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Frames And Foundation<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Frames are rectangular structures (wood or plastic) inserted in Langstroth hives. Within the frames,  bees build their comb. The comb is used for brood rearing and food storage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p>See our article <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/what-is-honeycomb\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\">What Is Honeycomb? (Talking Beeswax)<\/a><\/strong> for more information on how bees build and use wax comb.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>Frames are removable for beehive inspections and honey harvests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each hive box contains the appropriate number of <strong>frames<\/strong> with the proper depth for the box. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Optional plastic or wax &#8220;<strong>foundation<\/strong>&#8221; is set inside the frames. Foundation is embossed with hexagon shapes and provides a base for bees to build wax comb. (Note that some alternatives to the Langstroth hive do not use frames or foundation.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-1 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Frames can be &#8220;<strong>foundationless<\/strong>&#8220;. A simple guide on the top bar is all honey bees need to begin building comb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, <strong>we recommend that beginning beekeepers start out using foundation<\/strong>. You can always change later to try foundationless beekeeping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p>See our article <a href=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/beehive-frames-and-foundations-a-beginners-guide\/\"><strong>Beehive Frames And Foundations (A Beginners Guide)<\/strong><\/a><strong> <\/strong>for more information.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"225\" src=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/Frames.jpg\" alt=\"Foundationless frame and frame with plastic foundation\" class=\"wp-image-660\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/Frames.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/Frames-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Foundationless frame and frame with plastic foundation<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-2 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Frame-with-wired-wax-foundation.jpg\" alt=\"Beeswax foundation\" class=\"wp-image-1014\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Frame-with-wired-wax-foundation.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Frame-with-wired-wax-foundation-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Beeswax foundation<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bees-drawing-comb-on-foundationless-frame-prog.jpg\" alt=\"Bees on foundationless frame\" class=\"wp-image-3872\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bees-drawing-comb-on-foundationless-frame-prog.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bees-drawing-comb-on-foundationless-frame-prog-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bees-drawing-comb-on-foundationless-frame-prog-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bees-drawing-comb-on-foundationless-frame-prog-150x84.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Bees drawing comb without foundation<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Inner And Outer Covers<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>An<strong> inner cover<\/strong> with a ventilation hole in the center sits on the uppermost box. It may have a notch on one side to provide an optional upper entrance. The ventilation hole also provides a place for bees to reach a feeder set on top of the inner cover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An<strong> outer cover<\/strong> over the inner cover can be migratory or telescoping. A <strong>migratory cover<\/strong> fits tightly over the boxes to assist in transporting the hive. A <strong>telescoping cover<\/strong> hangs over all sides of the hive, protecting it from the elements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p>If you are looking for your first Langstroth hive, check our list of the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/beekeeping-starter-kits-best-kits-by-budget\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"6734\">best beginner beehive kits <\/a><\/strong>for our recommendations based on your budget.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Optional Langstroth Components<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many optional components available for Langstroth hives. For newbies, we think there are only two that warrant your attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Queen Excluder<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A <strong>queen excluder<\/strong> is a metal or plastic grid designed to permit the passage of worker bees, but not the queen, between boxes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An excluder placed above the brood boxes prevents the queen from laying eggs in your honey supers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p>We tried using excluders but found that it hindered production in the upper boxes. Bees seemed slow to move into the supers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Without the excluder, we had little problem with brood in the upper bodies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For our article about <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/what-is-a-queen-excluder\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"6617\">queen excluders <\/a><\/strong>for more information.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/What-is-a-queen-excluder.jpg\" alt=\"What is a queen excluder?\" class=\"wp-image-6628\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/What-is-a-queen-excluder.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/What-is-a-queen-excluder-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/What-is-a-queen-excluder-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/What-is-a-queen-excluder-150x84.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Metal queen excluder being placed on a hive<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Escape Board<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-3 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>An <strong>escape board<\/strong> confuses bees so that they can travel between boxes in one direction only.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Escape boards can be discrete components or created by adding inexpensive parts to an inner cover. (See the accompanying video.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Prior to taking a box for honey, place an escape board beneath it. Over the course of a day or so, bees will make their way down to the lower boxes but can&#8217;t find their way back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Honey is easier to harvest without bees on the frames.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube\"><div class=\"lyte-wrapper\" title=\"What Is A Bee Escape Board\" style=\"width:640px;max-width:100%;margin:5px auto;\"><div class=\"lyMe\" id=\"WYL_YQ2ijpTXANA\" itemprop=\"video\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/VideoObject\"><div><meta itemprop=\"thumbnailUrl\" content=\"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/YQ2ijpTXANA\/hqdefault.jpg\" \/><meta itemprop=\"embedURL\" content=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/YQ2ijpTXANA\" \/><meta itemprop=\"duration\" content=\"PT7M5S\" \/><meta itemprop=\"uploadDate\" content=\"2020-09-10T23:17:15Z\" \/><\/div><div id=\"lyte_YQ2ijpTXANA\" data-src=\"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/YQ2ijpTXANA\/hqdefault.jpg\" class=\"pL\"><div class=\"tC\"><div class=\"tT\" itemprop=\"name\">What Is A Bee Escape Board<\/div><\/div><div class=\"play\"><\/div><div class=\"ctrl\"><div class=\"Lctrl\"><\/div><div class=\"Rctrl\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><noscript><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/YQ2ijpTXANA\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/YQ2ijpTXANA\/0.jpg\" alt=\"What Is A Bee Escape Board\" width=\"640\" height=\"340\" \/><br \/>Watch this video on YouTube<\/a><\/noscript><meta itemprop=\"description\" content=\"It&#039;s easier to harvest honey if there are no bees in your honey super. For backyard beekeepers, bee escape boards are good option. In this video we discuss Porter bee escapes, 8-way escapes and our favorite, the triangle bee escapes. Chapters 0:00 - Intro 1:02 - Porter bee escape 2:46 - 8-way bee escape 3:40 - Triangle bee escape board 5:40 - Limitations 6:42 - Conclusion See our website article on bee escapes at https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/remove-bees-honey-harvest\/ Video on fume boards for larger apiaries: https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=ik33zPhFOSY #beekeepingfornewbies #honey #beginningbeekeeping\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"lL\" style=\"max-width:100%;width:640px;margin:5px auto;\"><\/div><figcaption><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Advantages of Langstroth Hives<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Due to its popularity, there is a wide range of suppliers and equipment along with other resources available. It\u2019s most likely the hive of choice among your local beekeepers. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> The ability to keep adding boxes provides greater honey yield potential than some alternatives that consist of a single hive body.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consistency in size makes boxes easily interchangeable and similar among manufacturers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You have more choices for honey extraction methods using frames with foundation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Frames permit easy transfer of comb, brood, and food stores between hives as needed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Disadvantages of Langstroth Hives<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Hive inspections are <strong>more disruptive<\/strong> than with some alternative hives. Inspections require moving boxes and frames to see what&#8217;s going on.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Boxes can be exceptionally heavy<\/strong>. A deep hive full of bees, brood, and\/or honey can weigh between 70 and 90 pounds. A medium super with honey is about 50 pounds.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bees do not build natural-sized<strong> comb cells on foundation<\/strong>. <strong>Foundationless hives can have cross-combing issues.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Foundation may contain traces of <strong>contaminants.<\/strong> The impact of this is minimal if you buy from reputable suppliers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You need <strong>storage space<\/strong> for equipment not in use. Boxes are only added when needed for colony expansion and removed when they are not needed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p>Be careful moving heavy hive boxes. See our article <strong><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/is-beekeeping-dangerous\/\">Is Beekeeping Dangerous?<\/a><\/strong> for more information.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Offsetting Some Disadvantages Of Langstroth Hives<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>We think t<strong>he advantages of Langstroth hives outweigh the disadvantages, particularly for a beginning beekeeper<\/strong>. The ease of finding equipment and advice is important. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<p>You can make <strong>adjustments that minimize some disadvantages <\/strong>of Langstroth hives:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Use all 8-frame, medium hive bodies for lighter boxes.  <\/strong>You will get rid of the much heavier 10  frames deeps. Your back will thank you.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>We recommend that newbies start with foundation because it\u2019s easier. Once you are more comfortable, consider foundationless frames. You\u2019ll have no foundation to buy, no possible contaminants, and natural-sized comb cells. Cross-combing can be controlled with regular inspections and proper leveling.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>One drawback to 8-frame bodies is a lack of certain standardized components. It&#8217;s easier to find components for 10-frame boxes. However, we have yet to find this a major problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is A <strong>Warr\u00e9 Hive<\/strong>?<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-1076\">\n<figure class=\"alignright\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"182\" height=\"442\" src=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Volksbeute.jpg\" alt=\"Warr\u00e9 hive exploding view\" class=\"wp-image-1076\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Volksbeute.jpg 182w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Volksbeute-124x300.jpg 124w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 182px) 100vw, 182px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Warr\u00e9 hive exploding view Image by Mandy Fritzsche, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.atramentum.de\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.atramentum.de<\/a> [CC BY-SA 3.0 (<a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/3.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/3.0<\/a>)]<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Warr\u00e9 hives were developed by Abb\u00e9 \u00c9mile Warr\u00e9, a French priest and beekeeper. After many years of experimentation, he came up with The People\u2019s Hive described in his book <em>Beekeeping For All.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Warr\u00e9 type of beehive mimics the way bees build comb in the wild. Vertically stacked hive boxes are square and identical in size. The inside of the hive bodies is like a tree hollow the bees might call home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The boxes are generally used with top bars only. However, frames are available consisting of a top bar and two sidebars, but no bottom bar. Frames, if any, do not use foundation. With this design, the bees build their comb downward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Atop the hive bodies sits a quilt box. The quilt box is filled with wood shavings or other material to absorb moisture out of the hive. A cloth or screen sits between the quilt box and the top hive body. This prevents the quilt box from being glued to the top bars with propolis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A gabled rooftop provides ventilation and weather protection for the hive. Unlike Langstroth hives, new hive boxes are added to the bottom of a Warr\u00e9 hive. This is called <strong>nadiring<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As the honey stores move up in this manner, the lower box becomes the brood chamber. Being in the lower boxes helps insulate the brood. Also, bees tend to move up in the colder, winter months to stay warm. In a Warr\u00e9 hive, they are moving up to the stored honey for sustenance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Warr\u00e9 hives are meant for minimal intrusion by the beekeeper.<\/strong> In the spring a box or two may be added to the bottom. In the fall, a box or two of honey is harvested from the top.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Advantages of the Warr\u00e9 Hive<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Warr\u00e9 hives <strong>simulate a natural bee environment.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hives are <strong>low maintenance, with minimal intrusion<\/strong> over the course of a year.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Foundationless<\/strong> comb is designed entirely by the bees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Small, square boxes are <strong>lighter and easier to maneuver<\/strong> than larger Langstroth boxes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consistent sizes make boxes interchangeable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Square boxes can be set in alternating directions for winter, reducing drafts and improving heat retention.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Disadvantages of the Warr\u00e9 Hive<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Smaller boxes usually mean <strong>less honey<\/strong> at harvest time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lack of a full frame and foundation <strong>limits the methods of honey extraction<\/strong>. Centrifugal extraction will not work. Cut comb or crushed and drained comb are the only options.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Warr\u00e9 hives are much<strong> less popular<\/strong> than Langstroth hives. There are a limited number of suppliers; dimensions can vary, which may lock you into one source of new boxes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lower popularity means <strong>fewer resources available<\/strong> (like experienced local Warr\u00e9 beekeepers). <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nadiring boxes can be quite a bit of work (the one time a year you need to do it).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p>For more detailed information about Warr\u00e9 beekeeping, check <a href=\"https:\/\/warre.biobees.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>warre.biobees.com<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>If you decide to try the Warr\u00e9 hive, you can purchase the equipment at <a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thewarrestore.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>The Warr\u00e9 Store<\/strong><\/a>. The Warr\u00e9 Store also has an informative section on<strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thewarrestore.com\/warre-hives\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Warr\u00e9 Beekeeping<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-2-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-4 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Warrebasic.jpg\" alt=\"Basic Warr\u00e9 Hive\" class=\"wp-image-1080\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Warrebasic.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Warrebasic-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Basic Warr\u00e9 Hive &#8211; Image by Kevin Pauba [CC BY 4.0 (https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/4.0)]<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Warrecombs.jpg\" alt=\"Warr\u00e9 combs\" class=\"wp-image-1081\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Warrecombs.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Warrecombs-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Warr\u00e9 combs &#8211; Image by Kevin Pauba [CC BY 4.0 (https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/4.0)]<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Horizontal Hives<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike Warr\u00e9 and Langstroth hives, <strong>horizontal hives are single-box cavities where the bees expand horizontally<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<p>Horizontal hives can take various forms and dimensions. Common types of horizontal hives are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Top bar hives;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Horizontal (or &#8220;long&#8221;) Langstroth hives; and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Layens hives.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Generally, horizontal hives sit on stands about waist-high for easy access. This also reduces ground moisture and small predators from infiltrating the hive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Horizontal hives offer viable options for beekeepers needing to offset the disadvantages inherent in Langstroth hives, particularly the need to move heavy boxes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p>See our article <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/horizontal-hives\/\" class=\"rank-math-link\">What Is A Horizontal Hive?<\/a><\/strong> for a detailed discussion on these alternatives.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Top Bar Hives<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Top bar hives are considered the oldest type of man-made beehives and are a very <strong>common type of horizontal hive.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Wedge-shaped bars (or bars with a guide strip) hang across the top of the cavity of a TBH. The wedge gives bees a starting point to draw comb downward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The hive body is usually sloped along the sides. Since bees don\u2019t attach the comb to the sides of the hive, comb is formed in a triangular shape. Without foundation or a full frame, this shape keeps the comb more stable when a bar is removed from the hive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A TBH top can be flat, but a gabled top provides air space for ventilation. A well-designed TBH allows the beekeeper to lift the cover without completely removing it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One or more bee entrances can be created along the sides or ends of the hive. Additional screened openings can be added for ventilation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Solid boards attached to top bars (called follower boards) create separate sections. This controls the amount of space used by the bees. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>TBHs need regular inspection to check for cross-combing, fix broken comb and determine if the bees need more space. A lot of TBHs have a viewing window for you to check on the hive without opening it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With a single-body construction, hive inspection only requires lifting one bar at a time. This is less disruptive to the colony, and you may find the bees to be more docile as a result.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re a DIYer, you\u2019ll find lots of plans and videos online showing how to build a TBH. The hive body can be made with relatively inexpensive materials. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dimensions of TBHs vary. If you DIY, you may need to make every component (top bars, follower boards,  hinged roof, etc.) yourself.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>TBHs are more suitable for hobbyists than commercial beekeepers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Advantages of Top Bar Hives<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Single-body<\/strong> construction means no lifting and repositioning of many boxes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>No storage is needed for unused boxes <\/strong>off-season.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Top bars with comb, honey, and brood are <strong>light to lift.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Without foundation, bees build <strong>natural-sized comb cells<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hive inspections are <strong>minimally invasive<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Queen excluders are not a consideration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Space is easily reduced in winter to keep the colony close together.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>TBH can be a <strong>fun DIY project<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Disadvantages of Top Bar Hives<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Without frames and foundation, honey harvesting <strong>cannot use centrifugal extractors<\/strong>. Comb honey or crushed and strained honey are the only options.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>As with Warr\u00e9 hives, their relative popularity vis-\u00e0-vis Langstroth hives means<strong> fewer resources<\/strong> at your disposal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>TBH <strong>dimensions can vary widely<\/strong>. This means you will have limited sources of replacement equipment if needed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>More <strong>frequent inspections<\/strong> are required. TBHs are less suited to outyards and should be nearby.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The size of your single-body TBH <strong>limits honey production.<\/strong> <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Check out <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/backyardhive.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">BackYardHive<\/a> <\/strong>for more information. They have TBHs and accessories for sale, plans for DIYers, and more. <a href=\"http:\/\/organicbeehives.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Organicbeehives.com<\/strong><\/a> is another source for top bar hives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns has-2-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-5 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"267\" src=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Top-bar-hive-3.jpg\" alt=\"Top bar hive\" class=\"wp-image-1092\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Top-bar-hive-3.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Top-bar-hive-3-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Top bar hive in winter &#8211; Image by Mind Control~bgwiki [CC BY 3.0 (https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0)]<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"267\" src=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Blick_in_die_Top-Bar-Hive_34746297681.jpg\" alt=\"Bees on comb in TBH\" class=\"wp-image-1093\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Blick_in_die_Top-Bar-Hive_34746297681.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Blick_in_die_Top-Bar-Hive_34746297681-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Bees on comb in TBH &#8211; Image by Maja Dumat from Deutschland (Germany) [CC BY 2.0 (https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0)]<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Long Hive (Horizontal Langstroth)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A variation on the Langstroth hive is the Long Hive or Horizontal Langstroth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A Long Hive body is similar to a TBH, except that it\u2019s designed to accept standard Langstroth deep frames. The elevated hive is easy to access. Only one frame is moved at a time during inspection. Frames with foundation allow centrifugal extraction. Foundationless frames should be wired for stability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These seem to be mostly DIY projects. While the standard frames are widely available, the boxes and accessories are not. Most online search results are for plans, not equipment. Examples are <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.wixstatic.com\/ugd\/a666c3_28f9896fb1cc4b4fa3b8ed113a496392.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">plans<\/a> from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.abbottsustainablefarms.com\/long-langstroth-hive\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Abbott Farms<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Combining the advantages of a TBH with standard Langstroth frames may make this the best beehive for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Frederick Dunn, a popular YouTube beekeeper, built his own horizontal Langstroth.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube\"><div class=\"lyte-wrapper\" title=\"Long Lang Horizontal Hive Startup. Home Made, Saskatraz Package honey bee Install. The Beginning!\" style=\"width:640px;max-width:100%;margin:5px auto;\"><div class=\"lyMe\" id=\"WYL_87kUcxSjJ2k\" itemprop=\"video\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/VideoObject\"><div><meta itemprop=\"thumbnailUrl\" content=\"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/87kUcxSjJ2k\/hqdefault.jpg\" \/><meta itemprop=\"embedURL\" content=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/87kUcxSjJ2k\" \/><meta itemprop=\"duration\" content=\"PT27M1S\" \/><meta itemprop=\"uploadDate\" content=\"2020-04-25T00:12:04Z\" \/><\/div><meta itemprop=\"accessibilityFeature\" content=\"captions\" \/><div id=\"lyte_87kUcxSjJ2k\" data-src=\"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/87kUcxSjJ2k\/hqdefault.jpg\" class=\"pL\"><div class=\"tC\"><div class=\"tT\" itemprop=\"name\">Long Lang Horizontal Hive Startup. Home Made, Saskatraz Package honey bee Install. The Beginning!<\/div><\/div><div class=\"play\"><\/div><div class=\"ctrl\"><div class=\"Lctrl\"><\/div><div class=\"Rctrl\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><noscript><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/87kUcxSjJ2k\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/87kUcxSjJ2k\/0.jpg\" alt=\"Long Lang Horizontal Hive Startup. Home Made, Saskatraz Package honey bee Install. The Beginning!\" width=\"640\" height=\"340\" \/><br \/>Watch this video on YouTube<\/a><\/noscript><meta itemprop=\"description\" content=\"Happy Friday and I have finally finished the Long Langstroth Bee Hive and installed a 3 pound package of Saskatraz Honey Bees. The bees arrived on Tuesday in a snowstorm and had to be held until Thursday for installation when the weather broke. Package storage - 55-60 deg. f, in total darkness to keep the bees quiet. They did not use up their included sugar syrup. Very few dead, and the Queen was lively. I also walk you through my apiary to show an indication of robbing that is very important to know about this time of year, or any time there is a dearth. The nectar flow has not hit us yet, so they need feed to get them going. My seasoned bees that made it through winter are bringing in resources at a rapid pace and will need wider entrances and a super very soon. I had several extra packages of bees as I over-speculated about my winter losses. So, I&#039;ve added two more hives to the apiary in addition to the Long Langstroth hive. The two new Flow-Hive 2 units will be the ones I use to check for a varroa load in the Saskatraz bees. The weather was so bad that I decided not to treat the packages before installation. I will share about package health within the next 9 days. If you want to see greater detail as to how I direct release my queens or how to use the marshmallow to slow that introduction, please watch this video: https:\/\/youtu.be\/x_HE4DEzLUc Below are some links to equipment shown in this video for your convenience: FREE UPDATED PLANS: https:\/\/www.fredsfinefowl.com\/printsforyou.html 1- Rapid Round Feeder: https:\/\/amzn.to\/2W0aDpL 50\/50 sugar to water (cane sugar) with 1 tsp \/ quart of essential oils. 2- Honey-B-Healthy Essential Oils: https:\/\/amzn.to\/3eR0BQ3 Prevents your syrup from spoiling. 3- Tension latches: (Lockable) https:\/\/amzn.to\/2KxHZXA 4- Entrance Gates I&#039;m using under the hive for seasonal air flow control: https:\/\/amzn.to\/2KvBrbM 5- The Long Langstroth was assembled and glued up with water-proof glue: https:\/\/amzn.to\/2KubDwX 6- Heavy copper flashing: 16 gauge - https:\/\/amzn.to\/2S46oIz 7- copper blocker mesh that I used under the follower\/division board: It&#039;s also great for blocking mice and pests: https:\/\/amzn.to\/2ztR8OE 8- Stainless Steel Scrubby Pads I use in gable vents to slow air flow to provide venting without drafts. https:\/\/amzn.to\/2S5RHEV 9- Better Comb by BetterBee: Fast start comb with pre-drawn cells to get your Queen laying faster: (tell them Frederick Dunn send you) https:\/\/www.betterbee.com\/frames\/adfbcomb10-bettercomb-deep-frame.asp 10- for those wanting to go &quot;vertical&quot; instead of &quot;horizontal&quot;... Please avoid fakes, here is the real deal at &#36;50.00 off: http:\/\/mbsy.co\/honeyflow\/29307941 AU - https:\/\/mbsy.co\/zSDf9 EU - https:\/\/mbsy.co\/zSDbm 11- 300 Series Stainless Steel Wire Mesh\/Screen -Make Your Own vents and drains, or even screened bottom openings: https:\/\/amzn.to\/2Y8QNuX 12- EXTERIOR PAINT - my favorite paint for all of my hives is from Valspar: https:\/\/amzn.to\/2Kv4ixb 13- Disposable Paint Brushes - Leave a couple of brushes right in each of your hives under the cover so you don&#039;t cross-contaminate your hives. Brush those stubborn workers right out of the way: https:\/\/amzn.to\/2S4hlKc Want to join a forum of those who also watch this channel, where you can chat, share photos\/videos and keep up with like-minded backyard beekeepers? Here is the link to our Friendly Beekeeping Fellowship https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/3062274013832702\/?source_id=167853353261108 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Have a question for me? http:\/\/www.fredsfinefowl.com\/thewaytobee.html\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"lL\" style=\"max-width:100%;width:640px;margin:5px auto;\"><\/div><figcaption><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Layens Hives<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A <a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"https:\/\/horizontalhive.com\/how-to-build\/layens-hive-frame-plans.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Layens Hive<\/a> is something of a riff on the Langstroth horizontal hive. It&#8217;s a single hive body with deep frames inserted horizontally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Layens hive is not widely available from suppliers. Dimensions can vary, and they do not use standard Langstroth frames. For these reasons, we don&#8217;t think it&#8217;s the best type of beehive for newbies despite its advantages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, if you want to build or purchase one, check out <a aria-label=\"HorizontalHive.com (opens in a new tab)\" class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"http:\/\/www.horizontalhive.com\/index.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HorizontalHive.com<\/a>. They have everything you could want relating to Layens hives: hives, frames, plans, books, and even training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Flow\u00ae Hives<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.honeyflow.com\/?gclid=CjwKCAiAqaTjBRAdEiwAOdx9xiIl0SB7KKJbZLfcHOn8I4MKt4hXJCCIcpzxGs3hfKefer67b5U9xRoC6IgQAvD_BwE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Flow\u00ae Hives<\/a> (which we discussed <strong><a class=\"rank-math-link\" href=\"\/beekeeping-hobby\/\">here<\/a><\/strong>) are designed to work with Langstroth boxes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The unique feature of the Flow\u00ae Hive is its honey extraction device. Bees make honey in specially designed frames. Honey is released directly into containers without the need to remove frames.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Flow\u00ae Hives are very appealing but are rather expensive. They make honey extraction look really, really easy. You\u2019ll still have to learn how to maintain your hive and work with the bees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>In Summary<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We think the advantages of the Langstroth hive outweigh its shortcomings, making it the best beehive for most beginning beekeepers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, if the traditional Langstroth hive is not suitable for your circumstances, a Warr\u00e9 or horizontal hive may be the best beehive for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There is nothing that prevents you from having multiple types of beehives in your apiary. Each colony is independent and will adapt to the environment you provide. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Feel free to experiment with alternatives. It\u2019s part of the fun.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>There are 3 major types of hives: Langstroth, Warr\u00e9 and horizontal hives like a Top Bar hive. We describe how they each work including pros and cons and why we think you should start with Langstroth.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":4351,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[40,4],"tags":[],"taxonomy_info":{"category":[{"value":40,"label":"Beekeeping 101"},{"value":4,"label":"Beekeeping Equipment"}]},"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/Langstroth-hives.jpg",800,450,false],"author_info":{"display_name":"Melanie","author_link":"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/author\/melanie\/"},"comment_info":0,"category_info":[{"term_id":40,"name":"Beekeeping 101","slug":"beekeeping-101","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":40,"taxonomy":"category","description":"","parent":0,"count":67,"filter":"raw","term_icon":null,"cat_ID":40,"category_count":67,"category_description":"","cat_name":"Beekeeping 101","category_nicename":"beekeeping-101","category_parent":0},{"term_id":4,"name":"Beekeeping Equipment","slug":"beekeeping-equipment","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":4,"taxonomy":"category","description":"","parent":0,"count":20,"filter":"raw","term_icon":null,"cat_ID":4,"category_count":20,"category_description":"","cat_name":"Beekeeping Equipment","category_nicename":"beekeeping-equipment","category_parent":0}],"tag_info":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4322"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4322"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4322\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8785,"href":"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4322\/revisions\/8785"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4351"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4322"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4322"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.beekeepingfornewbies.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4322"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}