To construct accurate Langstroth beehive frames, the top bars must be cut to exactly 480 mm in length, while the bottom bars must be 470 mm long. The length of the two sidebars depends on the frame type: cut them to 230 mm for deep frames, 160 mm for medium frames, and 134 mm for shallow frames.
Core Takeaway The structural integrity of a Langstroth frame relies on the precise length difference between the top and bottom bars. The top bar must be longer to create the "ears" or lugs that suspend the frame, while the sidebar length rigidly dictates the frame's classification as Deep, Medium, or Shallow.
Anatomy of the Horizontal Components
Top Bar Dimensions
The top bar is the primary support structure for the comb. It requires a specific length of 480 mm.
This length is critical because it exceeds the width of the frame body. This extra length creates a 5 mm projection (or lug) on each end, allowing the frame to rest securely on the rebates of the beehive box.
For increased durability and to prevent sagging under the weight of honey, high-quality top bars are typically crafted with a thickness of 3/4 inch.
Bottom Bar Dimensions
The bottom bar serves to square the frame and hold the foundation in place. The standard length for this component is 470 mm.
This is 10 mm shorter than the top bar. High-quality frames often use a bottom bar thickness of 1/2 inch to balance weight and structural rigidity.
Anatomy of the Vertical Components (Sidebars)
Determining Frame Depth
The sidebars are the variable components in frame construction. While the horizontal bars remain constant, the sidebars change to fit specific box depths.
You must cut the sidebars to the following specific lengths based on your hive configuration:
- Deep Frames: 230 mm
- Medium Frames: 160 mm
- Shallow Frames: 134 mm
Function of the Sidebar
These measurements ensure the assembled frame fits within the standard imperial heights of Langstroth boxes.
For context, the assembled heights roughly correspond to 9 1/8 inches (Deep), 6 1/4 inches (Medium), and 5 3/8 inches (Shallow).
Understanding the Trade-offs
Maintenance Requirements
While wooden components are the traditional choice and readily accepted by bees, they are not "set and forget."
Wood is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the environment. In humid climates, this can lead to warping or rotting if the timber is not properly treated or maintained.
Assembly Precision
Wooden frames rely on mechanical joints, typically dovetail or tongue-and-groove.
If your dimension cuts are off by even a few millimeters, the frame may not square properly. An out-of-square frame violates the "bee space," leading bees to glue components together with propolis, making hive inspections difficult.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
When selecting which sidebar dimensions to cut or purchase, consider the intended function of that specific hive box.
- If your primary focus is brood rearing: Use sidebars cut to 230 mm (Deep), as the larger surface area allows the queen to lay uninterrupted patterns of brood.
- If your primary focus is honey harvest: Use sidebars cut to 160 mm (Medium) or 134 mm (Shallow), as these smaller frames reduce the heavy lifting weight when the boxes are full of honey.
Precision in cutting your wooden parts is the first step toward a manageable and productive apiary.
Summary Table:
| Component | Length (mm) | Standard Thickness | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top Bar | 480 mm | 3/4 inch | Support frame with 5mm lugs |
| Bottom Bar | 470 mm | 1/2 inch | Square the frame and secure foundation |
| Deep Sidebar | 230 mm | Variable | Optimized for brood rearing |
| Medium Sidebar | 160 mm | Variable | Ideal for honey supers (manageable weight) |
| Shallow Sidebar | 134 mm | Variable | Specialized honey harvest and lightness |
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