Which is better, 8 frames or 10 frames beehive?
Most beekeepers use box-type beehives known as the Langstroth. This type of hive was invented by Lorenzo Langstoth in the USA for more than 150 years and has stood the test of time. Over time, many new inventions have popped up in the market and faded in popularity due to Langstroth effectiveness. The types of Langstroth hives used are eight frames and ten frames. The choice depends on the beekeeper’s preference. These are not compatible, so you have to decide to use one option. The hive dimensions correspond to the number of frames.
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Which is better, 8 frames or 10 frames beehive?
An 8-frame has many benefits not only to the beekeeper but also to the bees. The bees prefer to use eight frames, even in a ten frame box, throughout the seasons.
Advantages of 8 frames boxes
Smaller space to heat up
One of the preparations for winterizing honey bees is condensing your hive by removing extra boxes. It limits the amount of space that bees need to heat up. An 8 frame box helps the bees to survive better in winter by providing a smaller area to heat. It limits both the height and width of the hive.
Bees Prefer the 8 Frames Box
The bees instinctively know they don’t require 10 frames. They naturally prefer to utilise 8 frames only before moving vertically to another box unless there is a heavy nectar flow.
Bees Access Food Resources Easily
A cluster of bees usually occupies eight frames instead of 10 frames. As such, they will not have to break the winter cluster to reach the 1st or 8th frame. This helps to keep the heat they have trapped and worked hard to produce.
It is Lighter
An 8-frame box weighs 20 % less than a 10 frame box, making it easier for your back as you lift. This is vital as a beginner if you want to prevent long-term back and knee pain. A 10-frame that is full of honey weighs up to 90 pounds.
Easier to Carry
8 frame boxes are easier to carry. I makes it easier to transport them than a 10 frame box. This favors the commercial beekeepers most of their time picking up boxes.
Require Smaller Space
If you have limited space in your backyard or apiary, you should consider an 8-frame hive. It is 2 inches shorter than a 10 frame box.
Price
8-frame boxes are cheaper than 10-frame boxes.
Disadvantages of 8-Frame Boxes
It Fills Fast
8-frame boxes fill faster than 10-frame boxes. You will have an additional expense in adding more supers as they fill up.
Tipping Risk
8 frame hives have more boxes stacked vertically. The risk of tipping down is higher during rainy or windy weather.
Unavailability
8 frames hives have gained popularity in the recent past. They are more harder to get than 10-frame boxes. Pollen traps and top feeders may also be hard to fit the 8-frame boxes.
More boxes to Inspect
When inspecting a bee colony in an 8-frame hive, you will have more boxes to lift and inspect.
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Advantages of 10–Frame Boxes
- 10-frame boxes are lower in weight and broader. They can store more honey with less height.
- Honey bees have more room to make honey and raise brood
- There are fewer boxes to purchase
- Most hive accessories are made to fit the 10-frame boxes.
- Most beekeepers use 10 frame boxes and have experience managing bees in them. It is easier to find supplies for them.
- Fewer boxes to inspect.
Disadvantages of 10 frame Boxes
- Most beekeepers cannot lift or move 10-frame deep boxes
- They are too heavy and can injure your knees and back
