Mating nuc design

[rookie2531]

This is a video of a design I have been working on. I think it will work well for more than just a mating nuc. What do you think?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zFDilp9ztw&feature=youtu.be

[BeeMaster2]

Looks good Rookie.
If you have a lot of rain, you may find with using a cover as a bottom board, even with the metal being sealed, it will fill with water, some from condensation, some from coming in the doors and some dripping down the box.
Jim

[rookie2531]

Jim, do you think if I covered the whole board in roof cement or tar, before attaching the metal, it would keep the moisture out? I have not attached it yet, because I still don't know what material would work best for the bond between galvanized metal and wood. Maybe even letting a sealant cure before attaching, like a rubber o-ring, of sorts. If that makes sense.

I am modifying this post, because I had a new plan.

I can just slip the metal cover on when used as a cover. That will allow it to remain dry when used as a bottom, plus an added bonus, the metal should cover the entrance holes.

[BeeMaster2]

Rookie,
I recommend you make a bottom board of solid wood with no metal under it.
I have a lid that is a few years old that is made from plywood with a galvanized steel cover. It only gets the moisture from the bees inside. I have had to remove 2 layers wood that has been falling apart. The remaining layers are spongy.
I have had to rebuild every bottom board that I made out of plywood. They only last about 2 years. By then you can put your finger through it.
You can use the plywood that is designed for cement work. It will not fail even when used as a migration lid which has no protection from the sun and rain.
Jim

[rookie2531]

I did not glue the ply wood to the side walls. So, when the time comes to needing replaced, I will use solid lumber. You got me thinking more about the moisture problems from the bees and the environment. I think I will drill some 2" holes in each bottom section and cover with hardware cloth. When I flip it over for use as cover, the tin will cover them. I will have a shim with a vent hole at the top and put a piece of foam board up inside when using as a top cover also. This may help keep it drier.

Thanks again for the advise Jim.

[BeeMaster2]

No problem. Good luck.
Jim

[rookie2531]

Here it is all done. I just need to paint them.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vBsQbD3SmUQ

[BeeMaster2]

Looking good Rookie. Let us know how it works out. I like your feeders, especially that you JP welded them. You really do not want lead in your sugar water.
Keep us posted.
Jim

[rookie2531]

 Thanks Jim, I will report how long they last and if they did well or not. Don't want someone making them if they do poorly.
 Another thought came to me as I was painting my woodenware today and that was to date it on the inside. I read a lot of people say that their equipment has lasted them (so many years), but as I grow, I think it will be hard for me to determine what is the age of every box.