Overwintering with bottom panels in a screened bottom board

[PappyRick]

I have two hives that I think are in fair shape going into winter.  Both of my hives have screened bottom boards with slide out panels under the screen.  I have seen differing  opinions about leaving the panels in throughout the winter - presumably to retain heat in the hive, or pulling them altogether to improve ventilation to avoid condensation on the top cover.  I'm curious to know what the forum recommends in this regard. Thanks.

PappyRick

[Perry]

I don't know what the forum would recommend, but I would be inclined to put them in, if only to cut down on draft.

[Les]

I have screened bottom boards and I close them up for the winter. 

[Lburou]

I have just one hive (one of 15) with a screened bottom board.  I cut a piece of thin plywood and nailed it to  the bottom, closing it off entirely.  And my winter only gets to 20 degrees for a week or so.  Ventilation is important though, I like a one inch kerf in one side of the inner cover for that.  I'm going to sell that hive in spring, then I'll have no screened bottom boards.   

P.S.  Ooops!  I have two with screened bottom boards.  The second hive has the insert installed...Thinking about selling it too. 

[rober]

I cut a notch in the front of my inner covers which helps with ventilation. I also put a piece of 1" blue Styrofoam under the outer cover.
I install the inserts in my SBB's around the 1st of December unless we get a cold snap in November. i'm just a bit north of you.
also if you put hard candy blocks on top of the frames or use a candy board that helps absorb condensation.

[Barbarian]

I am in a mild maritime climate.
I use screened bottom boards with the insert out for the winter. The hives are single brood with under supering. I tilt the hives slightly forward in winter.