if you bend the metal the other way the natrual bending force will press the middle of the lid tighter against the wood so it lays flatter. You're less likely to get a gap or a bubble in the middle that way. Also, it's normal to start in the middle as you do when stapling and work to the outside in each direction as you're more likely to get the edge to lay flat. Great job either way. Oh, and you could always leave the film on to protect the external finish from scratches until you're done.
Do you think it would be a good idea to further protect the hives by putting a piece of white plastic on top of the lid that overhangs all the sides by about 8 inches? That would keep more rain off the sides.
Yes, I've seen Dr Leo do the same thing using corrugated metal with a couple of heavy rocks on top of his hives that use metal tops just as an added measure.
Hi I came here looking for a video showing how to make the actual roofs/covers, but stayed anyway as I do want to put metal on top. Could one do hospital corners rather than cutting triangles out? Seems to me this would be better for two reasons - 1) no sharp bits, and 2) more waterproof as I imagine driving rain could find its way inside those cut corners at the top. Thanks for the video!
Hey Gene. Long time! Brad here. Question. I have “white” metal telescoping covers on my hives but want to cover them with something for this winter to help absorb more heat from the sun. Would black corrugated plastic work? What are your thoughts? Grateful
How thick of plywood are you using or the lids? It looks like inch thick. Why couldn’t you go lighter, say 3/8”? Nice video. I use a hand break from harbor freight to help bend the edges, good cheap tool. Thx.
Thank you for taking the time to show how this is done….and can be done with minimal tools. Much appreciated!
if you bend the metal the other way the natrual bending force will press the middle of the lid tighter against the wood so it lays flatter. You're less likely to get a gap or a bubble in the middle that way. Also, it's normal to start in the middle as you do when stapling and work to the outside in each direction as you're more likely to get the edge to lay flat. Great job either way. Oh, and you could always leave the film on to protect the external finish from scratches until you're done.
Thanks for sharing,,very informative,,🐝safe
I'll have to say you make it look sooo easy
Do you think it would be a good idea to further protect the hives by putting a piece of white plastic on top of the lid that overhangs all the sides by about 8 inches? That would keep more rain off the sides.
Yes, I've seen Dr Leo do the same thing using corrugated metal with a couple of heavy rocks on top of his hives that use metal tops just as an added measure.
Hi I came here looking for a video showing how to make the actual roofs/covers, but stayed anyway as I do want to put metal on top. Could one do hospital corners rather than cutting triangles out? Seems to me this would be better for two reasons - 1) no sharp bits, and 2) more waterproof as I imagine driving rain could find its way inside those cut corners at the top. Thanks for the video!
Thanks for sharing
Hey Gene. Long time! Brad here. Question. I have “white” metal telescoping covers on my hives but want to cover them with something for this winter to help absorb more heat from the sun. Would black corrugated plastic work? What are your thoughts? Grateful
You did a great job, but for your safety you need to wear gloves they sale Kevlar ones that fit your hands nice and tight
U agree you do make it look easy. Thank you! Are these for Layens swarm traps?
Yes they are! Thanks
How thick of plywood are you using or the lids? It looks like inch thick. Why couldn’t you go lighter, say 3/8”? Nice video. I use a hand break from harbor freight to help bend the edges, good cheap tool. Thx.
I was wondering that too. I am making some with 3/8 plywood and adding 3/4” blue foam between plywood and metal cap. It’s just a trial at this point
nice one