Protecting the timber Flow Hive

Beekeeping - Basics
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I have just taken up beekeeping again after a 4 year hiatus. I have my new Cedar Flow Hive and I am wondering what is the best way to protect the timber. I will be painting the roof with an exterior paint but I want to leave the rest of the hive in a natural state. I used linseed and tung oil on my last hive and it eventually had black marks and lots of weathering on it. I am in a different area now (Victoria) so there is a lot less humidity to deal with. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

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Hi Lorri, Most of our Flow Hive 2+ western red cedar hives at Flow HQ are stained with Intergrain UltraDeck in Cedar/Cypress, and the roofs have been painted with Dulux Weathershield Low Sheen.
for my own hives at home, I use Sikkens decking oil in Teak.

  • BN
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Thanks for the info Bija, I have used both products in my renovations so will happily use with the flow hives!

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If you can find a way to have them wax dipped it is even better.

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Hi Lorri :wave:,

For protecting your Cedar Flow Hive while keeping it natural, you might consider using a clear, exterior-grade wood sealant designed for durability; It should help prevent weathering without altering the natural look too much. Be sure to apply it thoroughly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Hope this helps, and best of luck with your beekeeping…

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