DIY Screened Bottom Boards

[Barbarian]

This is how I make my wood-butchers type of SBB.   



Front view




Rear View        The slide rests on the top of the hive stand.

Perhaps someone would like to post how to make a de luxe version.

[apisbees]

The wire size used in the screen is a lot thicker than what is available here. You will not tear that screen with a corner of a super. It also lays flat and the wires are evenly spaced. Your bottom boards are the same length as the supers, so no landing area on the bottom board but built into the hive stand if used?

[Barbarian]

Thanks Apis for your comments.

Semi-rigid metal mesh is available from several UK beekeeping suppliers. I get mine from Wynne Jones.

http://cwynnejones.com/

No landing board ?  Yes, Yes, Yes..     Don't get me started on these   

[CpnObvious]

I've built my new bottom boards (pictures to follow once complete)...  The one thing I'm not entirely sure of is the hardware cloth.  I had every intention of using 1/8", but the store I went to had no 1/8", and was having a smokin' deal on the 1/4".  The base is fully closable and I would imagine here in MA I would have it closed most of the season anyway.  What are you're thoughts on 1/8" vs 1/4" mesh for this?  On another, though related note, how big are give beetles?  Will they fit through 1/8", or would I really need 1/4" for them anyway?  Thank you!

[Intheswamp]

Bees easily go through 1/4".  If you're thinking of using oil trays or sticky boards beneath 1/4" screen then bees will get in them.  There is an elusive #7 screen that is supposed to be the optimal size, but it is rarely ever available.  Kelley Bees used to have it (may still have it), but only in 100-foot rolls and a rather high price.  #6 is used by some people as it has a bigger opening than #8 and allows larger hive beetles to pass through into an oil tray while stopping *most* bees...smaller bees will still get through #6.  Most hive beetles will pass through #8, but some are just too big.

Ed

[CpnObvious]

that's a bummer... thanks for the info... I guess I'll have to keep hunting to find 1/8".  I think I know the shop... just don't like that place as well.