How To Build A Kenya Top Bar Hive - Part 1 - Top Bars

[DavesBees]

I hope someone finds this helpful.

[Dracono]

hey thanks for posting this now I have a few new idea's on how to make my top bars.

[Grandma_DOG]

Here are two videos you may find useful for prepping the top bars with comb guides.

Learning Top Bar Beekeeping - Building Top Bars 1/2

and

Learning Top Bar Beekeeping - Building Top Bars 2 of 2

[muradulislam]

Thanx for the tip about using string as a guide, i'll definitely use it now and i think it will work great.....

[shane]

when using the cove molding there is a gap between the cove and the top bar have you ever had a problem with shb just looks like a good hiding spot for them what is your thoughts on this thanks for the videos

[DavesBees]

Shane,
That is a great question.  I haven’t had a problem with SHB at all but you have a good point.  My bees fill the holes with propolis.  There is a similar molding that is simply a triangle and perhaps called corner molding that works just as well.  I used the cove molding because it was what I found at the store.  I am now in Maine and SHB will not be a problem for me but I haven’t checked out the stores to see what they have either.  I think you might be better off with the corner molding if SHB are a problem in your area as the cove molding may very well offer a hiding place.  Good call!
 

[Poppi]

I believe it's called "chamfer molding" pronounced kamfur.   You can buy it in 8 ft strips 3/4 x 3/4 inch

[nietssemaj]

My home store didn't carry the chamfer/corner molding that is solid. So I bought some 1x2. Ripped it in half to get 1x1 (actually 3/4x3/4) and then ripped that at a 45° resulting in solid triangle molding.

[DavesBees]

You will save a nice chunk of change doing it yourself and I encourage that but...  I make the assumption that folks do not have the resources to make their own.  I also assume that if one has the resources they will use them.  Chamfer, corner, or cove molding and the other methods such as string, or dowels are for those of us with few resources. 

[Captkaoss]

Thank you for the information, getting ready to start building my first hive in next few days

Ron

[pkalisz]

Thanks for all of your videos - they are helpful.

[fivecats]

Dave, thank you for this series of videos.  Your explanation of the process and details as to the whys of what you were doing made them even more helpful than I had hoped.  I feel very confident that I can build a TBH myself now.  (I just have to find the money & materials!)

Great series!  The work you put into bringing them to us is very much appreciated.