++ Box Makers Tip ++
+ Start out by making boxes for yourself and monitor the build quality over years. You might think your boxes are great when you've finished them but in one/two/six months they could have all warped.
+ Wood like Cypress can be popular because it looks great new and is termite resistant but really needs plenty of time to "season" or dry out. It's very unlikely you will find kiln dried Cypress. Cypress boxes should be made over months and not over days or weeks. They will continue to warp over many months. The frames will twist and the top lid and base will cup.
+ Test test test: Make some single frames, get them perfect so they sit against each other with no gaps and no rocking, then leave them alone for a month or two, then sit them against each other again and check the gaps and rocking. This will give you an indication of how stable the timber is.
+ The same applies for the coatings. Testing should be done over a year or so. You'd want a good idea of what will happen to your boxes with bees inside and exposed to the elements.
Full timber article here: www.nativebeehives.com/more-timber/ ... See MoreSee Less
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Fairy Door Hive update. Three months Budding/Eduction progress photos. The hive is extremely busy at the moment! 😁👍. See more photos and info on the website: www.nativebeehives.com/fairy-door-hive/ ... See MoreSee Less
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