If you live in the Pacific Northwest or other similarly rainy regions, we urge you to give this hive top a try. From our experience, it works the best for protecting your bees from harsh winter and spring weather. It is considered the traditional hive cover for non-migratory beekeepers.

The base of this hive top is made from sturdy, strong pine. The heavy-duty metal cover is made from 26 gauge galvanized steel. The sides of this top extend down the sides of your hive by approximately 1.5”. These extended “eaves” allow for extra protection from the rain. It would be very difficult for rain to get up and under this hive top. This hive top does need to be used in combination with an inner cover. This combination prevents comb and propolis build-up between the top of the frames and top of the hive. It also allows for easier inspections with fewer disruptions to the rest of the hive.

We do recommend to keep a stone or brick on top of this cover to make sure heavy wind does not blow it off.