As is known, beehive is basic for beekeepers.Most beekeepers will assemble pre-cut beehive equipment at some time. Others go
farther by manufacturing their own equipment. In either case, it is important to use standard dimensions and assembly
methods to ensure that the equipment will be interchangeable, strong and durable.
We do so knowing bees are essential for good pollination, and of course, we love the honey they produce. What sometimes isn
’t clear, though, is what type of hive will suit us best. This decision depends on factors that vary among beekeepers. To
help you make the right choice for you and your farm, here are two hive options to consider.
Langstroth Beehive
When most people think of a beehive, they see in their mind’s eye a Langstroth. This is the granddaddy of beehives having
been invented, reasonably enough, by a Rev. LL Langstroth in 1852.
Although the design has changed somewhat over the years, the basic approach is of a modular, expandable beehive that allows
easy access for the beekeeper. The key innovation was the use of convenient vertically hanging frames, on which bees build
their comb.
Advantages
.Most common system and considered the universal beekeeping standard
.Most “old-school” beekeepers and commercial beekeepers in the US use it
.Supplies and support are easy to find
Disadvantages
.Bulky, end up storing extra parts elsewhere
.Heavy, each frame can weigh around 60 pounds
.Artificial cell size may contribute to health issues
.Have to smoke bees to calm them enough to work with them
.More disruptive to hive to work with them
Top Bar Hive
The Top Bar Hive, which you will often see referenced as a “TBH”, is a quite different design to that of the Langstroth and
Warre. A more recent design, relatively, the Top Bar is the most comfortable of designs for the beekeeper, presenting the
bees at a convenient height. There are no heavy, honey-laden boxes to lift, just individual frames of comb.
Advantatges
.Allows the bees to make natural cell sizes
.Light and easy to work with
.Less disruptive to bees, you don’t need smoke or full bee suit
.Can be worked more easily by people with disabilities
Disadvantages
.Bees can die in cold winters
.Combs can break off or form improperly
.May not have local support for this type of beekeeping
.Can have poor ventilation or other problems if not built properly