How do I replace brood box?

**dvwilson** · 08-18-2012, 03:28 PM

I harvested honey from a shallow two weeks ago. I decided to check the two 8 frame deep brood boxes. Top one went smoothly. When I attempted to pry a frame out of the bottom brood box, I broke a narrow shard of wood off the front leaving about a 1/4 to 1/2 inch gap. I haven't been able to think of an easy fix because this hive has always been hot compared to my gentle hive right next to it, and the bees beard on the front. They seem to be attempting a repair using propolis. I usually do a thorough inspection in October. Here in North Carolina the bees are flying most of November. I am thinking I need to replace the bottom hive box before winter. Any suggestions for getting the frames into the new brood box? I am anticipating lots of smoke and stings. As always, thanks to the beekeepers who take the time to offer advice.

**xbeeman412** · 08-18-2012, 03:35 PM

I wouldnt worry to much about that. If it bothers You screw a piece of wood from the outside to cover the opening.

**Acebird** · 08-18-2012, 03:51 PM

If your frames are that hard to break free I would keep that box on the bottom so next spring it is empty of bees and brood. Just patch it up for the winter, sheet metal, duck tape, wood, tar paper, anything.

**dvwilson** · 08-18-2012, 03:55 PM

Ah -- the "solve all your problems" duct tape. I should have thought of that. Thanks!

**BeeCurious** · 08-18-2012, 03:58 PM

I'd split it the day before, placing the bottom box some distance from the original position. You may have fewer stings....

**jadell** · 08-18-2012, 04:09 PM

I wouldn't worry about it either. I have one hive full of little carpenters. I fixed little things like that, just to find them make another hole in a box seam somewhere else. They had more staying power than I did. I now waste no time at all with these little "fixes."

**BigGun** · 08-18-2012, 04:25 PM

If it bothers you glue it in place and use some duct tape to hold it till dry.

**dvwilson** · 08-18-2012, 04:31 PM

Right now they seem happy with the extra ventilation -- it's been 95 to 100 degrees for weeks. I kept the broken-off piece of wood. Guess I'll wait until they are inside the hive before I go at them with super glue.