Poly Hive Kit Assembly Instructions
Thank you for purchasing your poly hive kit.
This kit is quick and easy to assemble. Most components are supplied fully assembled, with only the brood box, super boxes and floor requiring minimal assembly.
Kit Contents
- 1 × Roof (fully assembled)
- 1 × Crown Board (fully assembled)
- 1 × Queen Excluder (no assembly required)
- 1 × Brood Box
- 2 × Super Boxes
- 1 × Floor
- 1 × Metal floor mesh
- 1 × Plastic varroa tray
- Plastic frame runners
- 4 × Floor screws
Assembling the Brood Box & Super Boxes
Each box is assembled in exactly the same way.
Step 1 – Fit the Plastic Runners
Locate the two sides with the runner slots.
Slide a plastic runner into the slot from the end of each side.
The runners are designed to be a tight fit. Apply firm, even pressure until they are fully seated.
Important: Do not use excessive force, as this may damage the polystyrene. Support the side while pushing the runner into position if necessary.
Step 2 – Assemble the Box
Push the four sides together to form the box.
Ensure that the two sides fitted with the plastic runners face inwards towards each other, as these support the frame lugs.
Press each corner firmly until all joints are fully engaged.
Optional – Extra Strength
The boxes are ready to use once assembled.
For additional strength, you may choose to:
- Apply a suitable wood glue to the joints before assembly.
- Secure the corners with screws.
These steps are optional and are not required for normal use.
Assembling the Floor
- Position the metal mesh underneath the floor.
- Align the fixing holes.
- Secure the mesh using the four supplied screws.
- Tighten the screws until the mesh is held securely. Do not overtighten.
Once assembled, slide the plastic varroa tray into the slot beneath the mesh. The tray can be removed whenever required for varroa monitoring or to assist with hive management.
Components Requiring No Assembly
The following components are supplied ready to use:
- Roof
- Crown Board
- Queen Excluder
- Plastic varroa tray
Protect Your Poly Hive
For maximum durability, we recommend painting the exterior of all poly hive components with a bee-safe exterior paint.
Painting helps to:
- Protect the polystyrene from UV damage.
- Improve weather resistance.
- Extend the life of your hive.
Allow the paint to dry completely before placing the hive into service.
Your Hive is Ready
Once assembled (and painted if desired), your hive is ready for use.
We hope you enjoy your new hive, and wish you every success with your beekeeping.
