From: "huestis" <buzzybee@capital.net>
Date: Thu, 6 Sep 2001 13:42:28 -0700
To: <BiologicalBeekeeping@yahoogroups.com>
Subject: Re: Mesh floors & insulated roofs

Hi,

> I have had 6 open mesh floors under hives for most of the summer, and
> have decided to leave them in place for winter. I have placed an empty
> shallow super between each mesh floor and the hive stand. Most hives
> will have "standard" bottom boards.

Good idea. Bees will store pollen there.It will be available in the spring
for them to use. Assuming you put them under early enough.

> Using insulated covers, as described by Dave, must I use inner covers?

I would. Bees may propolize the insulation down. It may break up when you
remove it in the spring depending on the type of insulation you use. Place
the insulation over the inner cover.

> I am remembering that it was stated here, not to reduce entrances. My
> entrances are the full width of the hive, 19 mm high. The entrances are
> at the end of the frames [cold way?]. Is this best? Would it be better
> to have the entrances on the side? [warm way?]

In my opinion it doesn't make that much difference. Do what you like. I no
longer insulate as large amounts of stores seems to do the same thing.
Preventing condensation from dripping on the cluster seems more beneficial.
Thus proper ventilation is good. I shall be experimenting with burlap next
season to absorb moisture.

Clay