On Fri, 15 Nov 1996, Eric Abell wrote:
 
> >
> >1) The width of the top bars.  When placed in th hive, adjacent top bars
> >touch each other and thus create a "solid" lid.  The honey comb hangs down
> >from the center of these bars.  Consequently, the width of these bars must
> >the thickness of one honey comb plus one bee space.
>
> Is there no other 'lid' used?
>
The bars do make the top of the hive, but need to be protected from the
elements.  It can be done in any way that is convenient, and--if of
concern--frugal.  I have used a lot of cardboard which I've tried to
waterproof by several means.  I haven't found much to be satisfactory, but
it's cheap and quiet comparted to the 5-v tin that I use mostly.  I use
scrap tin if it's available; otherwise, I buy a sheet of the tin for
$7.50US which gives enough for three 20-bar hives and a 5-bar nuc.
 
I place a brick on the top center of the hive, place the tin on, and use
four bricks to weight it down so that it forms an arching top.  Works
well.  This gives a space which provides good cooling in the summer.  I
can uncover some of my tb center notches to provides additional entrances
and ventilation.  I have yet to have a top blow off in the GeorgiaUSA
summer thunderstorms.  The tops could be tied on if bricks or stones
aren't available.  Covers could be plastic, thatching...anything to turn
the water.
 
Cordially yours,
 
Jim
 
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  |  James D. Satterfield        |  E-Mail: [log in to unmask]       |
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  |  258 Ridge Pine Drive         Canton is about 40 mi/64 km   |
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