Constructing a top bar hive requires precise measurements to ensure functionality, bee health, and ease of management. Critical dimensions include top-bar width, spacing between components, and hive angles to prevent comb attachment issues and maintain proper "bee space." Ventilation and entrance design also play key roles in hive success. Below, we break down these measurements and their purposes for beekeepers or builders.
Key Points Explained:
1. Top-Bar Width
- Measurement: 1 and 3/8 inches (35mm) wide.
-
Purpose:
- Mimics natural comb spacing, encouraging bees to build straight comb.
- Prevents cross-combing (where bees connect combs irregularly, making hive inspections difficult).
- Standardized width simplifies honey harvesting without damaging comb.
2. Spacing Between Components
- Front/Rear Wall Spacers: 3/16 inch (4.8mm) gap between the hive walls and the first/last top-bar.
- Bee Space: 3/8 inch (9.5mm) between all surfaces (bars, walls, frames).
-
Purpose:
- Prevents propolization (bees sealing gaps with resin) or comb attachment to hive walls.
- Ensures bees can move freely without crowding or creating obstructions.
3. Hive Angle & Side Slope
- Bottom Board Angle: 120 degrees between the bottom board and sides.
- Sloped Sides: Typically angled inward.
-
Purpose:
- Discourages bees from attaching comb to the hive’s bottom or sides.
- Facilitates debris removal (e.g., dead bees, wax flakes) through gravity.
4. Entrance Holes
- Size & Quantity: Seven 3/4-inch (19mm) holes, adjustable based on season/activity.
- Placement: Some holes flush with the landing board for debris clearance.
-
Purpose:
- Regulates hive ventilation and bee traffic.
- Fewer open holes in winter reduce drafts; more in summer aid cooling.
5. Lid Design
- Options: Flat or gabled (peaked) lids.
-
Function:
- Gabled lids improve airflow and rain runoff.
- Liftable designs allow partial access without full removal, reducing disturbance.
6. Additional Considerations
- Material Thickness: Use durable, weather-resistant wood (e.g., cedar or pine) at least 3/4 inch thick for insulation.
- Hive Length: Standard top-bar hives are ~4 feet long, accommodating 20–30 bars for colony expansion.
By adhering to these measurements, beekeepers can build a hive that supports healthy bee behavior, simplifies maintenance, and maximizes honey yield. The design prioritizes the bees’ natural tendencies while minimizing human intervention—a hallmark of successful top bar hive systems.
Summary Table:
| Measurement | Dimension | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Top-Bar Width | 1 and 3/8 inches (35mm) | Encourages straight comb, prevents cross-combing, simplifies harvesting. |
| Front/Rear Wall Spacers | 3/16 inch (4.8mm) | Prevents propolization and comb attachment to hive walls. |
| Bee Space | 3/8 inch (9.5mm) | Ensures bees can move freely without crowding or obstructions. |
| Bottom Board Angle | 120 degrees | Discourages comb attachment to sides, aids debris removal. |
| Entrance Holes (Size/Quantity) | Seven 3/4-inch (19mm) | Regulates ventilation and bee traffic; adjustable seasonally. |
| Lid Design | Flat or gabled | Improves airflow, rain runoff, and reduces disturbance during inspections. |
| Material Thickness | ≥ 3/4 inch | Provides durability and insulation for weather resistance. |
| Hive Length | ~4 feet (20–30 bars) | Accommodates colony expansion and optimal comb space. |
Ready to build your own top-bar hive with precision? Contact HONESTBEE today for expert advice and high-quality beekeeping supplies!
