Paint Inner covers?

[hareman]

I have always been told not to paint any wood inside the hive. However, I recently have seen videos which encourage painting both sides of inner covers in order to prevent moisture from the hive from causing deterioration of the plywood used in construction of the inner covers. One video says to use a good coat of primer and two coats of paint. (I assume he is talking about latex paint.) Anyone have an opinion to share on this?

[iddee]

My opinion?? Don't use plywood. Good commercial inner covers are real wood.

[cao]

My opinion?  The only deteriation occurs when first installed before the propolise it.  Some of the ones that have been on my hives for several years are darn near waterproof now.

[Beeboy01]

I'll slap a coat of paint on the top side if I get a chance but have never noticed any difference with painted or not painted life span. I have a few inner covers that are painted and must be 50 years old so I would guess the paint helped.

[Acebird]

My opinion?? Don't use plywood. Good commercial inner covers are real wood.

Mine are luan or 1/4 plywood picture framed in pine. No paint.  If your inner cover gets wet I think you have other problems.

[hareman]

Thanks for your comments. I agree with your statements and while the painted inner covers might last a few years longer, I don't think it is worth the trouble, time and materials to paint it. It is just as easy to make a new after every 7 - 10 years if needed.