The top of the hive is the part that most affects the colony in winter. Cold kills few colonies; a leaking roof kills many.

Crown board

The inner cover that closes the space immediately above the frames.

• Moderates the internal climate
• Prevents the roof sticking to the frames
• Most have an opening for a feeder or insulation
• Some types take a clearer board

Cloth or plastic covers are also used; they are light and make inspection easier but insulate poorly.

The roof

The outermost part, with one job: keeping water out.

• It must overhang and shed rain outwards
• A metal covering extends its life
• Weight or a strap is needed against wind
• A light colour reduces heating in summer

The critical point in winter

A colony withstands cold; it does not withstand condensation dripping on it continuously.

Moist air rises, meets the cold roof and condenses. If that water drips onto the cluster the colony is soaked and lost.

The answer has two parts:

• Top insulation: Insulating the inner face of the roof reduces condensation
• Ventilation: The moist air must be able to leave

Insulating alone traps the moisture; ventilating alone loses the heat. The two must work together.

Insulation

Material placed above the crown board keeps the roof from cooling and moves condensation away from the cluster.

It must not absorb moisture; wet insulation stops working and makes the problem worse.

Maintenance

• Check the roof every autumn for cracks and holes
• Check the edges of any metal covering
• Treat the timber with a preservative
• A warped roof leaks; if it cannot be corrected, replace it

Tilt

If the hive stands tilted slightly forward, water that enters or condenses runs out of the entrance. A small detail with a decisive effect.