10 Frame Wooden Hive Components have been the industry standard for over a century — and are still the most common size in the USA. Larger 10 frame equipment provides more space for bees, honey, and brood than 8 frame hives, but some beekeepers feel that a brood overwinters better in taller 8 frame bee hive kits because the cluster can move up through honey stores more readily. When full, a 10 frame medium can weigh 50 to 55 pounds, while a full 8 frame medium super is lighter, weighing 45 to 50 pounds. Polystyrene hives provide more insulation value than wood for less temperature fluctuation, so a hive can have a bigger brood nest earlier in the critical spring build-up period. These hives are generally available in 10 frame styles, with Lyson also offering an 8/9 frame option.Click for more information on Bee Hive Components
Bees raise their young (brood) in 9-5/8" deep boxes known as brood boxes, hive bodies, or deeps. The nectar — which later becomes honey — is stored above the brood, and excess honey from the harvest is stored in the highest boxes, called supers. Many beekeepers use 6-5/8" deep medium boxes for supers because they’re lighter weight when filled with honey, while some beekeepers use lighter shallows as supers.