How To Build A Top Bar Beehive

Introduction

A top bar beehive is a type of hive that allows bees to build their comb naturally, without the use of frames. It is a great option for those who want to keep bees but don't want to invest in expensive equipment or are looking for a more natural approach. In this article, we will go over the steps to build a top bar beehive in relaxed English language with SILO structure.

Materials

Before we get started, let's gather the materials we will need:

• 1 piece of plywood, 4 feet by 8 feet, ½ inch thick
• 1 piece of wood, 1 inch by 12 inches by 8 feet
• 1 piece of wood, 1 inch by 6 inches by 8 feet
• 1 piece of wood, 1 inch by 2 inches by 8 feet
• 1 piece of wood, 1 inch by 1 inch by 8 feet
• 1 piece of wood, 1 inch by 4 inches by 8 feet
• 1 sheet of metal roofing, 4 feet by 8 feet
• 1 bundle of shingles
• 1 box of wood screws, 1 inch long
• 1 box of wood screws, 2 inches long
• 1 box of wood glue
• 1 roll of wire mesh, 2 feet by 8 feet
• 1 roll of window screen, 2 feet by 8 feet

Step 1: Cutting the Wood

First, we need to cut the wood to size. Use a circular saw or handsaw to cut the following pieces:

• 2 pieces of wood, 1 inch by 12 inches by 36 inches (for the sides)
• 2 pieces of wood, 1 inch by 12 inches by 22 inches (for the ends)
• 1 piece of wood, 1 inch by 12 inches by 48 inches (for the top bars)
• 4 pieces of wood, 1 inch by 2 inches by 22 inches (for the legs)
• 2 pieces of wood, 1 inch by 4 inches by 48 inches (for the roof)
• 2 pieces of wood, 1 inch by 2 inches by 48 inches (for the roof supports)

Step 2: Assembling the Hive Box

Next, we will assemble the hive box. Use wood glue and 1-inch screws to attach the sides to the ends. Then, attach the legs to the bottom of the box using 2-inch screws. Finally, attach the top bars to the top of the box using 1-inch screws.

Step 3: Adding the Roof

Now it's time to add the roof. Attach the roof supports to the top of the hive box using wood glue and 2-inch screws. Then, attach the two pieces of wood for the roof to the supports using 2-inch screws. Finally, cover the roof with the metal roofing and shingles, using more screws to secure it in place.

Step 4: Adding the Screen

We will now add the wire mesh and window screen to the hive box. Cut a piece of wire mesh to size and attach it to the bottom of the hive box using staples. Then, cut a piece of window screen to size and attach it to the top of the hive box using staples.

Step 5: Painting and Finishing

Finally, we will paint and finish the top bar beehive. Use a non-toxic paint to cover the hive box and roof. Let it dry completely before placing bees inside the hive.

Conclusion

Building a top bar beehive is a fun and rewarding project that can provide you with fresh honey and help support the bee population. Follow these steps to build your own hive and enjoy the benefits of beekeeping!