The posts have detailed the problems that can be found with bee boxes due to
the stability of wide softwood planks being affected by the moisture
content.

UK suppliers stick traditionally to Western Red Cedar - a poor choice in my
view as it is too sift to avoid damage at corners from levering with a hive
tool - also now expensive.  I always wonder if its use started only as a
misunderstanding - Langstroth was American and I understand 'cedar' can mean
a softwood in US and not necessarily Western Red.  So did someone ask
sometime what the best wood for hives was and get an answer 'cedar' and
misunderstand.....

In view of cost and instability in poorly seasoned timber, is there now a
practical alternative particle board or chipboard or ply board?

My own Deep-Long hives are made in Lithuania in plywood - it is a bit heavy,
but the design is aimed at permanent apiaries.  Plywood is sufficiently
stable for the long sides, stiffened with top battens to house the frame
lugs.  I would like to consider another material if available.

Robin Dartington

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