What Wire mesh is better for bottom board

[Chris L]

I want to back my own wire meshed bottom board. I see you can order the mesh from brushy Mtn and they have #8 and #7...what is the best one to order
thanks
chris

[Michael Bush]

I don't think it makes much difference, but in theory the #7 (7 wires per inch) has bigger spaces for the mites and is still too small for the bees to go through. I always buy #8 because I can get it at the local hardward store and not pay the shipping.

[La ruche]

I built my SBB with the mesh #7 bougth from Better bees. Their work well.

[ikeepbees]

Does anyone have any info on whether or not SHB can enter the hive through this 7 or 8 mesh?

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Rob Koss

[Kurt Bower]

A small hive beetle is approximately 3-4.5mm wide which means YES the smaller to midsize beetles can fit through the wire mesh on a diagonal. Even the #8 mesh won't keep them out.

There is a lot of information on the SHB out there and I have provided a link to one of many for your viewing.

http://www.csl.gov.uk/science/organ/environ/bee/factsheets/SHB_factsheet.pdf

[ikeepbees]

Thanks Kurt.