Randy, Scorching the inside of hives is to reduce the chance of transmitting foulbrood, (which you should treat for anyway.) Waxmoth larva live in the actual combs, and should cause no problem to a healthy colony. (The bees keep them in control.) New foundation will start you out fine, as waxmoths don't normally even get into foundation until there is some pollen they can eat, and no or weak beas. I've seen happy bees kept in everything from "painted fine furniture" to holey old boxes that had to be more than 50 years old. They didn't seem to mind the outside condition a bit. The only considerations are for protection the exterior of your woodenware from the elements, plus maybe the color, if you are in a hot/cold area. The bees don't mind. This list is a great resource for novices, and (like with most beekeeper activities,) you will get more ways to do things here than there are people here. ("Ask five beekeepers how to do something, and you will get six opinions...") Good luck! Gerry Visel [log in to unmask] phone: (815) 226-6620 fax: (815) 394-5438 or -2827