We take great pride in crafting high-quality, sustainable beehives for beekeepers across the UK. Our long hive is a popular choice for its durability and ease of use, and we believe that the timber we use to build it plays a crucial role in its success. In this blog post, we'll discuss the types of timber we use to construct our long hives and where we source it from.
What types of timber do we use to build our long hives? We use several types of timber to build our long hives, including cedar, larch, and oak. Each type of timber has its unique properties that make it suitable for use in hive construction.
Cedar is a popular choice because of its natural resistance to rot and decay, making it ideal for use in structures exposed to the elements. It also has natural insect-repellent properties, which help keep bees safe from pests like mites and beetles.
Larch is another popular choice for us because of its strength and durability, making it ideal for hive construction. It also has natural rot-resistant properties, which help ensure that our hives last for many years.
Oak is less commonly used, but we use it for certain parts of the hive, such as the landing board, because of its strength and ability to withstand exposure to the elements for long periods without deteriorating.
What are the benefits of using these types of timber? Using cedar, larch, and oak for hive construction has several benefits. Firstly, these types of timber are all durable and resistant to rot and decay, meaning that our hives last longer and require less maintenance over time.
Cedar's natural insect-repellent properties also help keep bees safe from pests, while larch's strength and durability help ensure that our hives remain stable and secure.
Using high-quality, sustainable timber can also benefit the beekeeper by reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements. This can save time and money in the long run, while also promoting sustainable beekeeping practices.
Where do we source our timber from? We source all of our timber from privately owned forests in Oxfordshire. We work with local landowners who manage their forests sustainably, ensuring that the timber we use is harvested responsibly.
By sourcing our timber locally, we can reduce our carbon footprint and support the local economy. We also have the opportunity to personally select the timber we use, ensuring that we only use the highest quality and most sustainable materials.
In conclusion, the timber we use to build our long hives at Hyde Hives is carefully selected for its durability, resistance to decay, and insect-repellent properties. We source all of our timber from locally owned forests in Oxfordshire, ensuring that our hives are made from sustainable materials. By using high-quality, sustainable timber, we can promote responsible beekeeping practices while also supporting the local economy and reducing our environmental impact.