On 1/02/2011 1:12 AM, Jeffrey R. Hills wrote:
> "Instead of using standard white latex paints to paint hive bodies, what are the pros and cons for painting the outside of hive bodies with beeswax?"
>
> Won't others will pay you more for your beeswax than you would pay for paints or other treatments?
>
> Why not try a mixture of linseed oil and turpentine? I have been using a 2:1 linseed oil:turpentine mix for several years with great results. Linseed oil and turpentine are the primary ingredients in oil paints.
> Try it. It slightly darkens the wood, and lets the grain show through.

Most timber used in the open air needs to be treated to prolong its 
life.  Two things happen, one water penetrates allowing micro organisms 
to eat the timber, and/or the timber expands and contracts often leading 
to spliting, and allowing more water to enter.

Waxes and oils can be applied (in an attempt) to waterproof the timber.  
These work best with considerable heat, largely by driving water out of 
the timber and replacing with wax/oil etc.  It is still best to use 
white paint over the top to avoid the expansion/ contraction.  Most 
paints available to not act very well as a moisture barrier.

Both locality and quality of timber have a large effect on the longevity 
of exposed wood.

Remember- 'if nature makes it, nature eats it.'

Geoff Manning

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