When selecting plywood for beehives, the smart choice is often exterior-grade plywood with Type-B bond or marine-grade ratings. Here’s a technical breakdown of why it is preferred:
- Non-Toxicity & Safety: The plywood must be free from harmful treatments and chemicals that could negatively impact the health of the bee colony. It’s crucial to use materials that do not off-gas harmful substances, as this can influence both the bees and the honey produced. As a solution we can suggest Riga Form Black ECOlogical Baltic Birch Plywood.
- Moisture Resistance and Durability: Exterior-grade plywood is designed to withstand environmental elements, making it more resistant to humid and weathering compared to interior-grade plywood. Marine plywood, in particular, offers superior resistance to water and fungal growth, which is important for maintaining the integrity of beehives in different weather conditions.
- Thickness and Strength: Plywood thickness should be lightweight enough for handling while providing structural stability . Usually, 12mm (1/2 inch) to 18mm (3/4 inch) thicknesses are preferred, depending on the specific design and particular requirements of the beehive. Thicker plywood offers better protection and insulation for the colony.
- Bonding and Adhesives: Plywood used for hives should obtain Type-B bond or higher, which ensures the adhesive can handle moisture without delaminating. Common in lower-grade plywood urea-formaldehyde glues tend to degrade faster in humid environment, so opting for plywood with more robust adhesive bonds is essential for prolonged durability.
- Organic Bee-Hives (Australian Certified Organic Guide):
- Hives must be made from natural materials.
- Treated timber prohibited.
- Particleboard and/or toxic wood preservatives are prohibited. Use of plastics must be demonstrated to not pose a contamination risk.
- Hives must be made of non-synthetic materials, but plastic foundation may be used if dipped in organic wax.
In summary, marine-grade or exterior-grade plywood with strong adhesive bonds and non-toxic properties is the best and safe choice for constructing beehives.