How to Build Bee Hives for Beekeepers

Bee hives have changed over the years. They have progressed from simple boxes to the more complex commercial hives used today. Whatever type of hive you prefer, they are necessary if you wish to successfully keep bees. Bee hives are available for purchase commercially; however, these can be expensive. Luckily, you can make a basic bee hive box at home for little money and insert your frames into the box.

Things You'll Need

  • Wood
  • Circular saw
  • Penny nails
  • Hammer
  • Paint
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut your wood before you begin. You will need two side pieces that are 9 3/4 inches by 20 inches by 1 inch. You will need two end pieces that are 9 3/4 inches by 15 inches by 1 inch. You will also need a top and a bottom, which can be cut from 1/2 inch plywood. The two pieces will be 16 1/2 inches by 21 1/2 inches.

    • 2

      Use a circular saw to cut a 3/8 inch by 3/4 inch notch into one of the long sides of each of the sides and end pieces you cut in Step 1. These will be the frame rests.

    • 3

      Use penny nails to attach both of the side pieces and the end pieces together. The four pieces should be attached to create a rectangular box with the side pieces across from each other. You will need two nails per side of wood. The frame rests should be on the inside of the box.

    • 4

      Attach cleats on the end pieces. To make your cleats, use wood strips that are 15 inches by 2 inches by 1 inch. Nail the cleats in place on the topside of the box.

    • 5

      Nail two pieces of wood that are 16 1/2 inches by 4 inches by 2 inches to the bottom piece of plywood, one on either end of the bottom piece. This will be your hive legs.

    • 6

      Cut riser boards from 3/8-inch thick strips of wood. You will need two that are that are 20 inches long, one that is 15 inches long and one that is 7 1/2 inches long. Nail your completed strips to the bottom of your box. This will allow you to make a 7 1/2 inch gap on one side for the bees to come and go from.

    • 7

      Nail the bottom to the box you created with the frame rest of the box at the top. Your bottom will stick out beyond the box. Three sides of the bottom should be flush with the box and the other will stick out beyond.

    • 8

      Make your lid by nailing two lengths of wood that are 16 5/8 inches by 1 inch by 2 inches to the top pieces of plywood. Use roofing nails for added strength.

    • 9

      Paint or seal your box with sealant. Allow it to dry completely before filling your box with your frames and bees.

    • 10

      Place the lid on top of the completed box.