Hive and frame maintenance is beekeeping's out-of-season work. Done in winter, it determines both the pace of the season and the health of the colonies.

Preparing frames

• Wiring jig: Threads the wire taut through the frame. A slack wire does nothing
• Eyelets: Stop the wire cutting into the timber
• Drilling jig: Opens the wire holes in line
• Embedder: Heats the wire into the foundation

Fitting foundation taut and straight is critical; crooked comb ends the interchangeability of frames.

Blowtorch

One of the most useful maintenance tools in beekeeping.

• Disinfection: Flames timber hives and hive tools. The most effective method against American foulbrood spores
• Surface treatment: Light scorching gives the timber some protection

It must not be used over dry vegetation and must not be left unextinguished.

Cleaning tools

• Scrapers: For propolis and wax
• Wire brush
• Soda solution: Boiling soda solution neutralises spores; practical for cleaning tools in quantity

Paint and preservative

• Only the outer surface is painted; nothing is applied inside
• Use products safe for bees, with the smell fully gone
• Do not put a hive into use until it is dry and odourless
• Light colours reduce heating in summer
• Different colours reduce drifting

Wax processing

• Solar melter: Simple and cheap; suits light-coloured wax
• Steam melter: Efficient and does not overheat the wax
• Foundation mould: Allows foundation to be made from your own wax

Having foundation made from your own cappings wax is the soundest way of breaking the residue cycle.

The maintenance calendar

All of this belongs to the winter months. Having frames ready and hives clean when the season starts saves time in spring.