The most distinct attribute of commercially available bottom boards is that they are reversible. This design standard allows beekeepers to flip the board to alternate between two different entrance heights, providing flexibility in how the hive entrance is managed without requiring extra equipment.
Most standard bottom boards feature a dual-sided construction that allows the beekeeper to select either a 7/8-inch or a 3/8-inch opening by simply turning the board over.
The Utility of Reversible Design
Adapting to Hive Needs
The primary advantage of a reversible bottom board is versatility. Rather than purchasing different floors for different seasons or colony strengths, the beekeeper utilizes a single piece of hardware.
The design relies on a rim that is deeper on one side and shallower on the other. This creates a specific gap between the floor of the hive and the bottom of the first brood box.
The 7/8-Inch Opening
When the board is oriented to provide the 7/8-inch opening, the entrance is maximized.
This larger gap is typically favored when the colony is active and requires substantial room for traffic entering and exiting the hive.
The 3/8-Inch Opening
By flipping the board, the entrance is reduced to a 3/8-inch opening.
This restricted setting significantly lowers the profile of the entrance. It is useful when the colony requires a smaller opening, such as when regulating airflow or limiting access.
Operational Considerations
The Effort of Adjustment
While the feature is convenient in theory, it requires physical labor to execute.
To utilize the reversible feature, the beekeeper must lift the entire weight of the hive boxes off the bottom board. Consequently, flipping the board is usually a seasonal event rather than a frequent adjustment.
Fixed Dimensions
The reversible board offers only two binary choices: 7/8-inch or 3/8-inch.
It does not allow for incremental adjustments between these two sizes. If a beekeeper needs an opening size that falls between these two standards, this specific hardware cannot accommodate it without modification.
Selecting the Right Orientation
Deciding which side of the reversible bottom board to use depends on your immediate objectives for the colony.
- If your primary focus is high traffic and ventilation: Utilize the 7/8-inch side to provide the maximum available space for bees to forage and circulate air.
- If your primary focus is restriction or conservation: Switch to the 3/8-inch side to minimize the entrance footprint and reduce the opening size.
The reversible bottom board is a fundamental tool that offers essential entrance regulation through a simple, robust design.
Summary Table:
| Feature | 7/8-Inch Opening | 3/8-Inch Opening |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | High traffic & maximum ventilation | Colony restriction & conservation |
| Best Season | Peak foraging (Summer) | Reduced activity or cold weather |
| Orientation | Deep rim facing up | Shallow rim facing up |
| Key Benefit | Improves air circulation | Limits entrance access |
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