Greetings
        The question of the correct bee space size comes up every so
often. Why is there so much space under the frames? As was correctly
pointed out, this can be as much as a full half inch.
        The best explanation was given to me by an old timer, some 25
years ago. Lumber tends to *shrink over time* so foresighted
manufacturers make the boxes a little large, 9 5/8". Then, if they
shrink the bee space is still OK. If the size is correct to begin
with and the boxes shrink, the space will be too small.
        A bee space a little too large will be filled with burr comb,
but one that is too small will be filled with propolis -- making it
much more difficult to pry apart.

Peter Borst
Ithaca, NY